The VP, PR & Corporate Communications is responsible for growing and protecting the WTA’s reputation as a leader in women’s professional sport through the development and execution of effective communication strategies and day-to-day media management. This position is essential in driving compelling storytelling across media, cultivating relationships with journalists and broadcasters, and shaping narratives that resonate globally with WTA fans and stakeholders. The VP, PR & Corporate Communications reports to the SVP, Global Communications. UK-based preferred, open to US candidates.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Develop and execute strategies to build WTA’s reputation (across key stakeholder groups) as a trailblazer in women’s sport and a champion for female athletes, and to support delivery of the WTA’s commercial growth ambitions.
- Lead WTA’s PR efforts proactively promoting the WTA, its initiatives, successes and variety of storylines, along with WTA players, all with a focus on driving global media coverage
- Identify potential reputational risks and vulnerabilities and develop appropriate proactive and reactive communications approach to mitigate.
- Lead corporate media relations program, overseeing major announcements, and building and maintaining strong relationships with key media outlets, journalists, and influencers in the US, UK and other markets.
- Review WTA and WTA Ventures narrative and update as required in light of strategic and organizational developments.
- Craft clear, consistent and well-written messaging and communication materials including press releases, Q&A documents and briefing notes.
- Play an integral role in developing appropriate crisis communication protocols and the organization’s response, including developing messaging and engaging with media and other stakeholders. Conduct post-crisis analysis and provide recommendations for improvement.
- Monitor sports industry trends, public sentiment and social media platforms to identify potential issues and anticipate crisis scenarios.
- Collaborate closely with internal stakeholders and co-ordinate support from external communications advisers.
- Provide timely updates and counsel on communication and reputational issues to WTA Tour and WTA Ventures leadership teams.
- Ensure executives and other spokespeople are fully prepared and supported for media engagement (including sourcing suitable media training if required).
Qualifications, Skills and Education Requirements
- 15 years of previous experience in PR and corporate communications [exceptional candidates with less experience will also be considered].
- Prior experience in sports communications/marketing/journalism preferred.
- Experience of US and UK media relations preferred.
- Prior tennis industry experience is not required (but may be advantageous).
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills (including ability to draft top quality communication materials, with fast turnaround when required).
- Knowledge of media relations and wider communications practices.
- Ability to think (and plan) strategically about reputation and communications.
- Enthusiasm for tennis and affinity for the WTA and its mission to champion women’s sport and promote female athletes.
- Excellent interpersonal skills; strong collaborator, adaptable and team oriented.
- High level of professionalism.
- Self-motivated, proactive and able to work independently.
Travel Requirements
Domestic and international travel may be required.
