Communications Specialist

Official Title: Communications Specialist
Business Title: Athletics Communications Specialist
Employment Class: Academic Staff
FTE: 1.0
Compensation: 34,600-46,000
FLSA Status: Exempt
Terms of Employment: Annual, fixed-term terminal contract
Position Summary:

Develops and drafts communication content and assists in the execution of the communications strategy in support of unit communication goals. The position is responsible for guiding all strategic communications for UW-Oshkosh’s athletics department and its 20 sponsored intercollegiate programs.

This position is a designated Campus Security Authority and is obligated under the Clery Act to notify the Dispatch Supervisor/Records Custodian at the UW Oshkosh Police Department of alleged Clery Crimes that have been reported to them or alleged Clery Crimes that they have directly witnessed.

UW Oshkosh provides a competitive benefits package for all benefit-eligible positions. Click here for more details.

Responsibilities

- Monitors reach and effectiveness of communication campaigns, projects, and initiatives
- Plans editorial content according to established goals and objects
- Communicates with stakeholders to verify requests and identify editorial resources
- Writes, edits, and publishes content for various communication projects and marketing platforms to align with strategic initiatives and established communication campaigns
- Provides project management and execution of communications programs, initiatives, and tactical plans

- Oversee all aspects of an athletics communications department as it relates to the promotion and publicizing of the school’s 20-sport program, including the dissemination of information to local, regional and national media outlets.
- Demonstrate the ability to relate effectively to student-athletes, coaches, staff, administration, alumni and the university community.
- Oversee maintenance and upkeep of the athletics website.
- Prepare and disseminate all statistical information required by conference, regional and national affiliations for all sports.
- Provide necessary information as it relates to nomination of athletes and coaches for conference, regional and national awards.
- Hire and supervise all student workers within the athletics communications department.
- Manage the department’s streaming platform (Blue Frame).
- Proficiency in statistical coverage at home contests and disseminate the information to the media and visiting schools.
-Manage all video and broadcasting content, including working with Titan TV for the staffing play-by-play broadcasters and video operators, table crews/press box staff.
- Manage all marketing materials and public communication documents for the athletics department, as well as game recaps, event programs and overall coordination of in-game event management.
- Maintain an archive of all athletic programs, including newspaper articles and statistics.
- Arrange all photographic needs for the athletics department – action, team and individual.
- Establish working relationships with local, regional and national media.
- Provide pregame and in-game notes and statistical information.
- Proficient in social media platforms (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube).
- Serve on the department’s hall of fame committee.
- Travel to postseason championship events when needed.
- Perform other administrative duties within the department as assigned by the Director of Athletics.

Essential responsibilities of the position:

- Ability to lead and manage support staff.
- Ability to effectively communicate with the media.
- Strong graphic design capabilities preferred.
- Availability to work evenings, weekends and holidays in addition to the regular day.
- Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
- Ability to write, edit and/or develop articles, reports and publications.
- Ability to accurately prepare and maintain records and reports.
- Must have excellent interpersonal skills and be able to work well with supervisors, coworkers, coaches, campus community and the public

Qualifications
Required:

- Bachelor’s degree in Journalism, Sport Management or related field
- Three years full-time athletics communications experience at the professional or collegiate level.
- Excellent interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills.
- Proficient in Stat Crew, Genius Live Stats (NCAA Live Stats), Presto Stats & Gymnastics Scorekeeper.
- Proficient in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, InDesign), Google applications and Microsoft Office programs.
- Knowledge and understanding of NCAA Division III athletics and its rules and regulations.
- Demonstrated ability to organize multiple tasks, meet deadlines and plan schedules.
- Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Preferred:

- Master's degree in Journalism, Sport Management or related field preferred.

To Apply:

Applicants must submit the following documents using the online application: Resume, cover letter, and contact information for three references.

For questions regarding your application and additional options to apply, contact Human Resources at recruitment@uwosh.edu or 920-424-1166.

Application Deadline:

TO ENSURE CONSIDERATION: Applications received by May 30, 2023 are ensured full consideration. Applications received after that date may be given consideration at the discretion of the search committee. Application materials will be evaluated and the most qualified applicants will be invited to participate in the next step of the selection process. Incomplete and/or late application materials may not receive consideration.

This position is a designated Campus Security Authority and is obligated under the Clery Act to notify the Dispatch Supervisor/Records Custodian at the UW Oshkosh Police Department of alleged Clery Crimes that have been reported to them or alleged Clery Crimes that they have directly witnessed.

If you have questions regarding this recruitment, or if you are not able to complete the application online due to a disability or system problem, please contact the Office of Human Resources.

Legal Notices:

AA/EO Statement
The University of Wisconsin Oshkosh (UWO) is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer committed to assembling a diverse, broadly trained faculty and staff. We strongly encourage women, minorities, people with disabilities and veterans to apply. UWO, in compliance with applicable laws and in furtherance of its commitment to fostering an environment that welcomes and embraces diversity, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, disability, or protected veteran status.

DEI Statement
Diversity drives innovation, creativity, and progress. At the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh, the culture, identities, life experiences, unique abilities, and talents of every individual contribute to the foundation of our success. Creating and maintaining an inclusive and equitable environment is of paramount importance to us. This pursuit prepares all of us to be global citizens who will contribute to the betterment of the world. We are committed to a university culture that provides everyone with the opportunity to thrive.

Reasonable Accommodations
UWO provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities who are employees or applicants for employment. Employment opportunities will not be denied because of the need to make reasonable accommodations for a qualified individual with a disability. If you need assistance or accommodation in applying because of a disability, please contact afaction@uwosh.edu or 920-424-1166. This job announcement and other material on this site will be made available in alternate formats upon request to an individual with a disability.

Confidentiality of Applicant Materials
UWO is a State agency and subject to Wisconsin's Open Records Law. UWO will not, however, reveal the identities of applicants who request confidentiality in writing except as may be required by Wisconsin's Open Records law. In certain circumstances, the identities of "final candidates" and/or the identity of the appointed applicant must be revealed upon request.

CBC & Reference Check Policy
All candidates for employment are subject to a pre-employment screening which includes a criminal background check, work authorization, and verification of education. It will also require you and your references to answer questions regarding sexual violence and sexual harassment.

Work Authorization
The University of Wisconsin Oshkosh does not offer H-1B or other work authorization visa sponsorship for this position. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of hire and maintain work authorization throughout the employment term.

Annual Security and Fire Safety Report (Clery Act)
For the UWO Annual Security and Fire Safety Reports (i.e., Clery Report), which includes statistics about reported crimes and information about campus security policies, see https://uwosh.edu/police/ , or call UWO Police Department, at (920) 424-1212 for a paper copy.