Reporting to the Senior Associate Director of Athletics for Communications, the Assistant Director, Athletic Communications assists with developing and executing the department’s strategic digital communications and social media plans to meet the goals and objectives of Cornell’s 37-sport Division I athletics program. The Communications Specialist works to maintain the branding and visual standards pertaining to the creation of graphics, photography, and video projects for content creation/branding on digital and social platforms. By developing compelling content for social media, the Assistant Director, Athletics Communications shapes the narrative of student athletes at Cornell and highlights the positive achievements of Cornell student athletes, teams, and coaches. This role is integral to the operation of Cornell Athletics Communications as the Assistant Director, Athletics Communications acts as the frontline spokesperson for various teams, producing online team record books, news releases and feature stories, responding to media requests, staffing home and select away events, supervising student assistants as well as statistical crews and other event support personnel. In addition, they will serve as a liaison between coaching staff, student-athletes, and oversee media relations to coordinate interviews, record, and provide timely, accurate information, and handle media needs to enhance their experience at the home events.

The position will work with 5-7 sports to be determined, with possible sports including football, volleyball, field hockey, men's or women's basketball, wrestling, softball, men's and women's lacrosse and/or others (TBD).

Success Factors:

• Interest and passion for athletics with a drive to promote Cornell's varsity student-athletes, possessing a deep knowledge of sports and intercollegiate athletics
• Demonstrated success in using advanced communication skills and digital management tools, including experience in web and social media strategy
• Regularly exhibit a proactive, personable and service oriented approach, enthusiastically working independently as well as contributing successfully as part of a team

Cornell communicators share a mission to enhance and preserve the university’s brand and reputation as a top research institution and a leader in higher education, and to support and promote critical programs that serve the university’s teaching, research and public engagement mission.

Communication services are carried out through a matrixed organizational system in which University Relations houses the departments of News (Cornell Chronicle), Media Relations (pitching and servicing media requests), Brand (Cornell.edu, multimedia production), Strategic Communications (communications plans, key messaging, campus statements, social media management), and Cornellians (digital alumni publication). Communicators in colleges, schools, and units regularly collaborate with, and consult, University Relations departments. University Relations serves as a partner and resource for all unit communicators.

While position responsibilities vary, every member of our community is expected to foster a culture of belonging and a psychologically healthy work environment by communicating across differences; being cooperative, collaborative, open, and welcoming; showing respect, compassion, and empathy; engaging and supporting others regardless of background or perspective; speaking up when others are being excluded or treated inappropriately; and supporting work/life integration of oneself and others.

• Bachelor’s degree with at least 2 years of relevant work experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience
• Strong interpersonal skills, communication skills, and attention to detail
• Ability to proficiently use social media platforms (Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and YouTube) and Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, InDesign, Premiere, Bridge, Illustrator, Light Room or After Effects)
• Knowledge of Division I Athletics and NCAA regulations
• Familiarity with live statistical packages
• Knowledge of social media strategy, live event production (video streaming hardware and software), statistics, sports writing, graphic design, and video editing
• Ability to work under deadline pressure
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends

Experience in and/or demonstrated commitment to supporting diversity, equity, access, inclusion, and wellbeing.

About Cornell University

Cornell communicators share a mission to enhance and preserve the university’s brand and reputation as a top research institution and a leader in higher education, and to support and promote critical programs that serve the university’s teaching, research and public engagement mission. Communication services are carried out through a matrixed organizational system in which University Relations houses the departments of News (Cornell Chronicle), Media Relations (pitching and servicing media requests), Brand (Cornell.edu, multimedia production), Strategic Communications (communications plans, key messaging, campus statements, social media management), and Cornellians (digital alumni publication). Communicators in colleges, schools, and units regularly collaborate with, and consult, University Relations departments. University Relations serves as a partner and resource for all unit communicators Diversity and Inclusion are a part of Cornell University’s heritage. We are a recognized employer and educator valuing AA/EEO, Protected Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities. Cornell University is an innovative Ivy League university and a great place to work. Our inclusive communi...ty of scholars, students, and staff impart an uncommon sense of larger purpose, and contribute creative ideas to further the university's mission of teaching, discovery, and engagement.

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