Communications and Media Relations Manager

About the Company

The College Sports Commission is an independent authority responsible for governing the national system that manages revenue sharing in collegiate sports. It ensures that agreements concerning student-athletes' name, image, and likeness (NIL) rights with third parties are handled fairly, transparently, and in compliance with established regulations. The Commission collaborates closely with educational institutions, athletes, and commercial entities to maintain fairness and integrity within college athletics. Its goal is to devise a sustainable structure that protects student-athletes while adapting to the changing business environment of college sports.

Role Overview

We are seeking a full-time Communications and Media Relations Manager to be based on-site in Tysons Corner, Virginia. This role entails creating and implementing communication strategies that highlight the Commission's mission, decisions, and initiatives to the media, stakeholders, and the broader community. Daily duties include composing press releases, responding to media inquiries, coordinating interviews, and nurturing relationships with journalists and media organizations. The manager will oversee messaging coordination across various platforms, prepare leadership for public presentations, track media coverage related to college sports and NIL topics, and assist in managing crises with clear and consistent communication. Collaboration with internal departments is essential to ensure all external messaging aligns with regulatory goals and the organization’s priorities.

Key Responsibilities

• Craft and execute communication plans to promote organizational goals and regulatory updates.
• Develop press materials, including releases and statements, that effectively explain complex policy and regulatory issues.
• Manage and respond to media inquiries, arranging interviews and maintaining strong media relations.
• Coordinate messaging across multiple channels to sustain consistent public relations presence.
• Prepare senior management for media appearances and public engagements.
• Monitor media coverage concerning college sports and NIL matters, addressing issues proactively.
• Collaborate with internal teams to synchronize communication efforts with organizational objectives.
• Support crisis communication and issue management with timely and clear messaging.

Qualifications and Skills

• Demonstrated expertise in media relations, including handling press inquiries and fostering journalist relationships.
• Proven experience in creating and distributing clear, informative press releases on complex regulatory or policy subjects.
• Strong strategic communication skills, capable of planning and implementing campaigns that advance organizational goals.
• Background in corporate communications, public relations, or similar fields, with the ability to manage messaging across diverse channels and audiences.
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities, able to simplify technical and regulatory content for broader audiences.
• Ability to juggle multiple projects, meet deadlines, and work effectively with cross-functional teams.
• Preferred experience in sports, higher education, government, or regulatory sectors.
• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or a related discipline, or equivalent experience.