About the Company
The Pac-12 stands at a defining moment in its history. Founded in 1915, the league’s rich legacy of athletic and academic excellence spans over 100 years. Supported by world-class service and empowerment, Pac-12 student-athletes have earned more than 500 NCAA team championships. Now with a renewed and bold vision for its future, the Pac-12 has undergone significant transformation on its journey to launching a new collegiate athletics conference, custom-built for both the modern-day student-athlete and an evolving college sports landscape.
Under the leadership of Commissioner Teresa Gould, the Pac-12 embarks on creating a new legacy, composed of nine member universities, a one-of-its-kind and state-of-the-art broadcast production facility in San Ramon, CA., and a reimagined commercial enterprise that is uniquely positioned to drive strategic partnerships, brand enhancement, revenue generation and other growth opportunities to unlock new and lasting value for both its member universities and its student-athletes. Currently composed of Oregon State University and Washington State University, the league will welcome seven new full members beginning with the 2026-27 season, including Boise State University, Colorado State University, California State University, Fresno, Gonzaga University, San Diego State University, Texas State University and Utah State University.
About the Role
Are you a seasoned communications professional with a passion for storytelling and a knack for building strong relationships? Do you thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment and have a desire to challenge the status quo? We're seeking a Director of Communications to join our innovative team and help us build the most disruptive and desired college sports league for the modern-day student-athlete.
In this pivotal role, you will be instrumental in shaping our narrative, amplifying our voice, and fostering strong connections with media and stakeholders. We're looking for someone who is detail-oriented, a strong communicator, relationship-focused, organized, and possesses the ability to juggle multiple projects with a keen eye for narrative development and storytelling.
What You'll Do:
- Develop and execute comprehensive communications plans that align with the league’s strategic objectives and elevate its brand and the brands of its members.
- Regularly update and develop key messaging and talking points to ensure consistency and impact across platforms and stakeholders, including leadership across the league’s member universities (i.e., university presidents, athletics directors, coaches, senior leaders, etc.)
- Track relevant and prominent narratives within the college sports and sports business landscapes and identify opportunities for strategic engagement.
- Coordinate interview and thought-leadership opportunities for leadership and key personnel, including speaking engagements, as well as necessary preparation, ensuring seamless interactions.
- Proactively pitch productive & impactful stories to national and regional media in support of the league’s brand and mission and in coordination with member universities.
- Develop and maintain mutually-productive relationships with reporters, editors, and producers, serving as a trusted resource.
- Construct compelling press releases, communications briefs, and other regular communications materials while effectively conveying the Pac-12’s message.
- Coordinate announcements and major initiatives, ensuring timely and impactful dissemination of information across stakeholders and member universities.
- Maintain regular communication and provide updates to member universities and key stakeholders, fostering collaboration.
- Conduct and oversee media operations as necessary for key events, including the football championship game, basketball tournaments, and pre-season media days for select sports.
- Assist in managing sports information roles and functions with regular touch points.
- Other duties as assigned by the VP, Communications & External Affairs
What You'll Bring:
- 7-10 years of relevant experience in communications, public relations, or media relations.
- Prior experience developing and executing successful communications plans.
- Proven experience with media relations, including pitching, relationship management, and crisis communications.
- Budget management experience.
Bonus Points If You Have:
- Experience in the sports industry.
- General knowledge of the college sports industry landscape and key players.
- Existing relationships with business and sports media.
- Experience with media monitoring and media database vendors.
- Strong Google Workspace skills (Docs, Sheets, Slides, Gmail)
Role Type & Location:
The Pac-12 office is based in San Ramon, CA. This is a full-time, remote position open to remote candidates in the states of California, Washington, Oregon, Colorado, Idaho, Texas and Utah. The role will involve 25-40% travel for events and regular in-person meetings.
Compensation:
The exact salary will depend on the successful candidate’s location, relevant skills, experience, and qualifications.
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, gender identity, marital or veteran status, or any other protected class.
