Senior Director, International Communications

Overview

The Senior Director, International Communications is a fully bilingual communications professional (English & Spanish), who is responsible for publicizing Major League Soccer (MLS), its clubs and properties across domestic and international media, and will bring significant relationships with editorial decision makers in the area. The individual will have strong communications skills and a track record of creatively selling ideas and concepts that result in story placement. The position is based in New York City and is a hybrid role.

Responsibilities

• Leads strategy and generates media coverage of Major League Soccer, its clubs, special events (MLS All-Star Game, MLS Cup) and properties (MLS NEXT, MLS NEXT Pro, Leagues Cup), among domestic, U.S. Hispanic and international media
• Builds and manages communications plan to increase awareness of MLS streaming service on the Apple TV app in Latin America and other international key markets
• Manages efforts of U.S. Hispanic and international communications team, including servicing key stakeholders such as the league’s 30 MLS clubs, internal departments, and partners
• Works with partners, affiliates and vendors on high-impact media opportunities that consistently secure coverage in a cross-section of media platforms (print, broadcast, online)
• Enhance and further develops relationships with key media members, influential bookers, producers, and talent
• Oversees editorial plan and manages staff who will develop pitch packets, press releases and informational documents in Spanish and French language with staff, and oversee the same for French language, as well as work alongside Sports and Corporate Communications, Digital and Content team as well as other groups to maximize opportunities, increase and enhance coverage
• Liaisons with internal departments and appropriate functional areas (MLS Digital, Partnership Marketing, Marketing, Broadcasting, etc.) within the organization and with that of the event partners
• Serves as internal point of contact for language-related inquiries for the league office
• Fields media requests and inquiries from U.S. and international outlets, as well as internal requests
• Participates in Communications department meetings and events, and leads own internal staff meetings
  
  

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree public relations, journalism, marketing communications or related field
• 10+ years of experience in PR, Communications
  
  

Required skills

• Fully bilingual in business communications (English and Spanish – reading, writing, and speaking)
• Strong organizational and communications skills
• Ability to prioritize, be proactive, anticipate problems, manage multiple projects and work under deadlines
• Ability to work in a fast-paced media environment and make quick decisions using sound judgement
• A positive teammate with ability to lead
• Knowledge of social media, current partners and trends, as well as using social media to affect PR strategy
• High-level of dedication to a quality work product and organizational ethics, integrity and compliance
• Ability to work effectively in a fast paced, team environment
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to effectively communicate, both verbally and in writing
• Demonstrated decision making and problem-solving skills
• Detail-oriented with the ability to multi-task and meet deadlines with minimal supervision
• Proficiency in Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook
• Ability to travel and to work non-traditional hours, including evenings, weekends and holidays
  
  

Desired skills

• Knowledge of the sport of soccer and passion for MLS
• Previous knowledge and experience in sports communications
  
  

Total Rewards

Starting Base Salary: $145,000 – 170,000. MLS/SUM base salaries are contingent upon several factors including individual qualifications, market financials, and operational business needs.

We are committed to providing a Total Rewards package that attracts, supports, engages, and retains talent through the following:

Benefits – comprehensive and competitive medical, dental, and vision benefits, as well as a suite of programs to promote well-being including a $500 Wellness Reimbursement. A generous PTO offering, and hybrid Office/Remote Work Schedule are also offered to promote Work-Life balance.

Career & Professional Development – on the job training, feedback, and on-going educational opportunities to continue your personal and professional development.

Employee Engagement – office perks, discounts and employee events that go “beyond the traditional paycheck” to make you feel a part of our team and inspire you to elevate the Game.

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, sex, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.