Director of Marketing and Fan Experience
The Director of Marketing and Fan Experience reports directly to the Senior Associate Athletic Director for External Operations, Administration and Facilities. This position serves as a creative and energetic leader responsible for enhancing the visibility of Lenoir-Rhyne Athletics through strategic marketing, fan engagement initiatives, game presentation and community outreach efforts. Emphasis will be placed on increasing attendance, enhancing the student and fan experience and fostering one of the premier game-day environments in NCAA Division II athletics.
The successful candidate will collaborate with coaches, campus partners and community stakeholders to increase awareness, attendance and engagement with Lenoir-Rhyne Athletics while promoting a consistent and dynamic athletics brand.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Lead all marketing and fan engagement initiatives for the athletics department, including attendance growth, promotional planning and community outreach efforts.
- Develop and execute comprehensive marketing plans for all athletic programs and special events designed to increase attendance, visibility and community engagement.
- Oversee all game-presentation elements, including scripts, promotions, music, contests, recognitions, public-address reads and in-game entertainment.
- Coordinate and manage the overall game-day atmosphere and fan experience for home athletic contests and special events.
- Collaborate with campus partners, including Admissions, Student Affairs, Advancement, Alumni Relations and Student Engagement, to maximize awareness and support of athletics programs.
- Assist with the planning and execution of special events, community programs, youth initiatives and promotional campaigns.
- Provide support for identifying and cultivating strategic partnerships and revenue-generating sponsorships.
- Oversee the Joe Bear mascot program and serve as a liaison to spirit groups (marching band, pep band and cheer/dance).
- Coordinate mascot appearances, community engagement opportunities and grassroots marketing efforts throughout the Greater Hickory and Unifour region.
- Assist with content planning and promotional strategies in collaboration with athletic communications and creative staff.
- Evaluate attendance trends among students, faculty and staff, alumni and donors, and fan engagement metrics to improve marketing effectiveness and event experiences.
Additional Responsibilities
- Demonstrate a commitment to fiscal integrity, sound budget management and effective allocation of marketing resources.
- Assist with external events and revenue-generating initiatives.
- Recruit and supervise student workers and interns.
- Work diligently to foster an atmosphere of sportsmanship, NCAA compliance, professionalism and respect among staff, coaches and student-athletes.
Required Qualifications
- Minimum of three years of experience in athletics marketing, promotions, fan engagement, event management or a related field preferred.
- Experience within intercollegiate athletics is preferred.
- Bachelor's degree required; master's degree preferred.
- Demonstrated excellence in interpersonal communication, organizational skills, event execution and project management. Must possess creativity, attention to detail and the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced team environment.
- An established record of success in the following key administrative functions is preferred: Athletics Marketing, Fan Engagement, Game Presentation, Event Management, Community Outreach.
- This position requires travel and variable work hours, including nights and weekends. Perform other duties as assigned by the department's senior leadership team.
Application Process
While completing the application, candidates will be prompted to submit: Resume, Cover letter, Three professional references
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