Welcome to Stanford’s Department of Athletics, Physical Education and Recreation (“DAPER”), the premier intercollegiate athletics program in the country. With an unparalleled record of 136 NCAA team championships, we are the proud Home of Champions. Our success isn’t just measured in trophies; it’s reflected in the passion of our nearly 900 student-athletes competing across 36 intercollegiate varsity teams. It resonates in our unwavering support for the university’s physical education, recreation, and wellness initiatives. At Stanford, we don’t just embrace excellence; we define it. We don’t just nurture champions; we create them. Our actions are guided by the core tenets of DAPER culture, “The DAPER Way,” which are: Embrace Scholar Athleticism, Pursue and Revere Excellence, Lead with Courage, and Work Cohesively.

At DAPER, we firmly believe that diverse teams make better decisions, foster innovation, and drive success for everyone involved. We celebrate differences in abilities, backgrounds, and perspectives, recognizing the rich tapestry that fuels our excellence. We are committed to fostering an environment of belonging where every voice is heard, valued, and respected. Your unique perspective is not just welcomed; it’s essential to our continued growth and success. So, if you think you have what it takes, but don't necessarily meet every single point on the job description, please still get in touch. We'd love to have a chat and see if you could be a great add to our team.

The Senior Manager/Director of Strategic Communication serves as a senior communications strategist in DAPER and as a thought partner to the Athletics Director and Executive and External Affairs Team. This position is responsible for developing and implementing communication strategies to support major initiatives and projects. The Director/Senior Director is responsible for the AD’s communications including remarks, presentations, public statements, crisis and event response, ensuring uniformity of messaging and alignment with DAPER’s strategic framework and priorities.
The Sr. Manager/Director is an individual contributor and reports to the Executive Associate Athletics Director, External Affairs.

Responsibilities

Develop communication plans to identify objectives, strategies, target audiences, tactics and key messages for initiatives and projects. Consults with stakeholders to identify needs and ensure objectives are met.
Develop key messages and communications for internal and external stakeholders
In partnership with the Executive Associate Athletics Director, External Affairs, advise the AD on communications.
Create presentations and slides for internal and external meetings
Oversee the development and execution of a strategic Internal Communications plan that reinforces DAPER’s mission, strategic priorities and shares essential information needed by DAPER staff and coaches. Develop, write, review and distribute internal communications.
Develop and maintain collaborative working relationships across DAPER and Stanford. Coordinate with the University Communications Office (?) on media inquiries and news releases.
Lead the planning and drafting of DAPER’s annual report
Create a consistent voice, style, and identity, enhancing engagement and reaction.
Create, research, and draft crisis communication messages on behalf of the AD in close collaboration with DAPER executive leadership and other campus leaders
Align AD donor messaging and communications with the University’s Office of Development/External Relations.
Serve as a thought partner on programming within the Home of Champions within the Arrillaga Family Sports Center

Required Qualifications and Experience
Education/Training
Bachelor's degree required, preferably in Journalism, Communications, English or a related discipline and 3 years related experience in corporate/executive communications, including experience developing and implementing strategic communications plans, or an equivalent combination of relevant education and/or experience

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Excellent written and oral communication. Experience working directly with executives or leaders in government, non-profit organizations, academic institutions, or corporations.
Proven expertise as both a strategic thinker and a project manager with a keen ability to get things done. Demonstrated ability to direct outside business partners and agency providers.
Extensive knowledge of industry best practices and a deep understanding of all aspects of communications (internal and external), branding, positioning, and messaging; ability to develop communications strategies across a wide range of platforms and audiences and evaluate their effectiveness.
Enthusiastic and natural collaborator with the ability to work with diverse teams to develop plans and drive results.
An excellent communicator, problem-solver, storyteller, and relationship builder. A trusted advisor.

The expected pay range for this position is $84,000 to $95,000 per annum.

Stanford University provides pay ranges representing its good faith estimate of what the university reasonably expects to pay for a position. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, departmental budget availability, internal equity, geographic location and external market pay for comparable jobs.

At Stanford University, base pay represents only one aspect of the comprehensive rewards package. The Cardinal at Work website (https://cardinalatwork.stanford.edu/benefits-rewards) provides detailed information on Stanford’s extensive range of benefits and rewards offered to employees. Specifics about the rewards package for this position may be discussed during the hiring process.

Why Stanford is for You

Imagine a world without search engines or social platforms. Consider lives saved through first-ever organ transplants and research to cure illnesses. Stanford University has revolutionized the way we live and enrich the world. Supporting this mission is our diverse and dedicated 17,000 staff. We seek talent driven to impact the future of our legacy. Our culture and unique perks empower you with:

Freedom to grow. We offer career development programs, tuition reimbursement, or course auditing. Join a TedTalk, film screening, or listen to a renowned author or global leader speak.
A caring culture. We provide superb retirement plans, generous time-off, and family care resources.
A healthier you. Climb our rock wall or choose from hundreds of health or fitness classes at our world-class exercise facilities. We also provide excellent health care benefits.
Discovery and fun. Stroll through historic sculptures, trails, and museums.
Enviable resources. Enjoy free commuter programs, ridesharing incentives, discounts and more!

The job duties listed are typical examples of work performed by positions in this job classification and are not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, tasks, and responsibilities. Specific duties and responsibilities may vary depending on department or program needs without changing the general nature and scope of the job or level of responsibility. Employees may also perform other duties as assigned.

Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact Stanford University Human Resources by submitting a contact form.

Stanford is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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