Director of Communications and Marketing

PURPOSE:
The Director of Communications and Marketing will lead all communications efforts to elevate USA Softball's visibility, strengthen its brand, and promote the sport nationally and globally. This role focuses on strategic messaging, public relations, and media outreach to highlight USA Softball's events, national teams, grassroots programs, and partnerships. In addition, this role will oversee marketing initiatives to ensure cohesive and impactful storytelling across all channels.

REPORTS TO: Chief Marketing Officer and supervises a team of 3-5 employees tasked with Grassroots, National Teams and Event communication directives as well as operating a seasonal intern program.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Strategic Communications Leadership

• Develop and execute comprehensive communication plans to promote USA Softball's programs, events, and initiatives to diverse audiences, including media, grassroots members, and the general public.
• Serve as the primary liaison for media relations, building and maintaining relationships with national, regional, and local outlets.
• Manage crisis communications and develop proactive strategies to address challenges while protecting the USA Softball brand.
• Work closely with USA Softball leadership to ensure consistent and professional messaging across all internal and external channels.

Media Relations & Public Relations

• Lead the creation and distribution of press releases, media alerts, and statements to promote USA Softball events, National Teams, and grassroots programs.
• Coordinate interviews, press conferences, and media opportunities for USA Softball staff, athletes, and coaches.
• Oversee event-related media services, including press coverage, live streaming coordination, and photography.
• Serve as the primary contact for media inquiries, ensuring timely and accurate responses.
• Collaborate with the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee (USOPC) and World Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC) on media-related efforts.

Team & Project Management

• Lead, develop, and manage a team of communications professionals, providing clear guidance, goal setting, and performance reviews.
• Implement project management best practices to ensure timely execution of communication strategies and deliverables.
• Foster cross-departmental collaboration to align communications efforts with organizational goals.

Skills & Knowledge

• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to tailor messaging to diverse audiences.
• Strong understanding of public relations, media relations, and crisis communication strategies.
• Proficiency in digital content creation and social media management.
• Experience leading and mentoring teams in a dynamic and fast-paced environment.

Internal & External Communications

• Develop and manage internal communications strategies to keep USA Softball staff, council members, and associations informed and engaged.
• Create and distribute internal newsletters and updates highlighting key initiatives and successes.
• Oversee the development of speeches, presentations, and talking points for USA Softball leadership and staff.
• Ensure consistent communication with grassroots associations to amplify their programs and provide resources for local promotions.

Digital and Social Media Communications

• Direct the strategy and execution of USA Softball's social media platforms to promote events, players, and organizational initiatives.
• Oversee the creation of engaging digital content, including videos, graphics, and photography, that tells compelling stories about USA Softball and its athletes.
• Manage the USA Softball website, ensuring it serves as a central hub for news, events, and resources while maintaining brand integrity.
• Collaborate with partners to amplify their messaging and ensure their integration into USA Softball's digital platforms.

Event Communications Support

• Develop and implement communication plans for major events, including the Women's College World Series, National Championships, and grassroots tournaments.
• Ensure effective on-site media coordination at events, including facilitating media interviews, press access, and content capture.
• Highlight athletes, teams, and coaches through storytelling efforts to increase visibility and engagement.

Publications & Printed Materials

• Oversee the creation of printed materials, including rulebooks, scorebooks, marketing collateral, and event programs.
• Work with external vendors to ensure high-quality production and timely delivery of all printed materials.
• Manage the distribution of membership materials and ensure consistency in messaging and branding.

Hall of Fame & Annual Council Meeting Communications

• Lead communication efforts for the National Softball Hall of Fame, including promotions and event coordination.
• Assist with communications for the Annual Council Meeting, including planning, registrations, and material preparation.
• Support Hall of Fame nominations by managing informational binders and facilitating committee communication.

QUALIFICATIONS:
Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5+ years of experience in communications, with a preference for experience in sports or nonprofit sectors.
• Demonstrated success in media relations, strategic communications, and public relations.
• Experience managing a staff, providing feedback, and supervising direct reports.
• Preferred experience in graphic design, CRM systems, or media monitoring software.
• Experience hiring third-party contractors to support event-based content creation.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and travel as necessary.
• Ability to travel domestically and internationally.
• Strong organizational and multitasking skills, with a focus on meeting deadlines.
• Physical ability to support event setups and transport materials as needed.

Why Join USA Softball?
As the Director of Communications and Marketing, you will have the unique opportunity to shape the voice and visibility of USA Softball. Your efforts will drive awareness, engagement, and growth for one of the nation's most iconic sports organizations, elevating the sport of softball and its athletes on a national and global stage.

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, gender identity, marital or veteran status, or any other protected class.

Job Questions:

1. Do you already live in or able to move to the Oklahoma City Metro area to work at the National Office?
2. Please provide a link to samples of work or a portfolio. (This can be in the form of a personal website or Google Drive folder.)