Job Summary:
The Director, Alumni Relations is responsible for maintaining and enhancing VSG’s relationship with its former players, ensuring that Alumni are actively involved in the club’s initiatives, community outreach, and fan engagement. The Director of Alumni Relations will provide strategy and leadership to develop, implement, and maintain a comprehensive program designed to provide meaningful experiences for Alumni. This position is responsible for the planning and implementation of opportunities and projects that strategically engage Alumni to enhance loyalty, dedication, and support for the Tampa Bay Lightning organization. The Director of Alumni Relations will lead efforts to create and sustain strong value connections for former players and Vinik Sports Group across the community as well as facilitate the growth of Alumni engagement and participation.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities:
Provide vision, leadership, and oversight to plan and execute the strategy of the Alumni Relations department related to the engagement of Alumni within the organization and throughout the Tampa Bay Community.
Create a multi-year plan for the Alumni Relations program that results in the growth of the program exhibited through greater alumni involvement.
Plan, implement and promote Alumni programs that support VSG’s strategic plan and organizational goals.
Craft portfolio of events that align with Alumni Relations goals, including Fantasy Camp in partnership with the Foundation’s Community & Hockey Development, Hall of Fame recognition, and other events as determined (e.g. golf tournament).
Collaborate with the Marketing and Communications team to develop a multifaceted alumni communications plan to increase alumni engagement within VSG and throughout the community.
Engage alumni in the life of Vinik Sports Group through consistent and positive communication, exceptional customer service, and meaningful opportunities for volunteerism, service, events and programs.
Create opportunities for interaction among Alumni and VSG staff, potential partners and the Tampa Bay Community.
Develop and execute promotional events and partnerships that raise the visibility of VSG and its Alumni.
Collaborate with the NHL Players’ Association (NHLPA) and NHL Alumni Association on player wellness and post-retirement initiatives.
Collaborate with the Hockey Hall of Fame and other institutions for storytelling and archival projects.
Directly supervise the Sr. Manager of Alumni Relations, providing management, advice, support, and guidance of day-to-day operations.
Assist Alumni with building their personal brands and creating visibility in the region.
Develop agendas and run quarterly Alumni Relations advisory board meetings to drive strategy.
Establish processes to ensure a smooth transition into the program when a former Lightning player retires.
Manage funds by planning, developing and managing departmental budget.
Create reports and analysis tools to help ensure the program is responsive to the needs of alumni.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Game/Event Responsibilities:
Game/Event Night responsibilities: Yes
Qualifications:
At least 7-10 years relevant experience in a non-profit or related alumni relations field
Bachelor’s degree preferred
Experience in sports and entertainment industry or other related industry preferred
Experience managing and leading team members
Demonstrated skill in building and maintaining effective working relationships with athletes and coworkers
Ability to build credibility and establish trust among players and management
Experience putting on successful, large-scale events
Excellent written and oral communication skills
Ability to handle multiple tasks, allocate and optimize resources, and manage timelines
Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Office (Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint, and Word)
Results oriented with strong interpersonal and customer service skills
Strong organizational and time management skills
Ability to maintain strict confidentiality and use of discretion
Ability to work collaboratively with others
Ability to work extended hours, including events, weekends, and holidays, as necessary
Working Conditions:
Ability to work efficiently and effectively in an office and arena environment that can be exciting, loud and distracting
Ability to work extended hours including late nights, holidays, and weekends as needed
Ability to lift/carry/move up to 50lbs
Ability to work in cold/hot indoor and outdoor temperatures
Ability to commute to various venues throughout the Greater Tampa Bay Area
Ability to commute/travel within the Greater Tampa Area and the US for up to one week at a time
Ability to travel within the US and Canada for up to one-week at a time, multiple times per year
Ability to work in areas that can become crowded with equipment and/or people
Ability to move comfortably throughout the arena with minimal accommodations
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
