The Fan Engagement & Community Marketing Specialist is a creative and dynamic professional responsible for developing and executing strategies that enhance the fan experience, build strong community ties, and grow our local fanbase. This role is at the intersection of marketing, event management, and community relations, focusing on creating memorable in-person and digital interactions. The ideal candidate is a hands-on doer with a passion for community building and a knack for creating engaging experiences.
Key Responsibilities
- Fan Engagement & Match Day Experience:
- Creating a Match Day Experience: Design, plan, and execute a wide range of fan-centric activities for home matches, including pre-game fan zones, live entertainment, player meet-and-greets, and promotions.
- Managing Fan Communications: Serve as a liaison to supporters' groups, such as The Loudoun Stampede, fostering a collaborative relationship to create a vibrant and electric stadium atmosphere.
- Themed Match Nights: Plan and manage special event nights (e.g., "Fireworks Night," "End of School Bash," "Kids Takeover") from concept to completion, with the goal of attracting new audiences and driving ticket sales.
- Digital Fan Interaction: Develop and manage fan-focused digital campaigns, contests, polls, and other initiatives to increase online engagement and foster a strong sense of community.
- Enhancing the Fan Experience: Evaluate and recommend new ways to improve the overall fan experience at Segra Field, including exploring new services, features, and amenities.
- Community Development:
- Youth Soccer Clinics: Organize, promote, and manage youth soccer clinics and camps, coordinating with coaches and players to provide a positive experience for young athletes.
- Charitable Programs: Manage and promote community-focused programs, such as "Kicks for Kids," ensuring effective distribution of tickets and coordination with local non-profits and businesses.
- Player & Mascot Appearances: Coordinate and schedule player and mascot appearances at local schools, community events, and charitable functions to build personal connections with the community.
- Local Partnerships: Build and maintain relationships with local businesses, non-profits, and community groups to create mutually beneficial collaborations and sponsorships.
- Grassroots Marketing:
- Targeted Local Outreach: Identify and engage with key community hubs, including youth soccer clubs, community centers, schools, and local businesses, to promote the club and its events.
- Local Event Presence: Ensure the club has a visible presence at local festivals, parades, and fairs by setting up branded tents, coordinating mascot appearances, and distributing promotional materials.
- Offline Promotions: Plan and execute the distribution of flyers, posters, and other promotional materials at strategic locations to reach new fans.
- Community-Based Content: Collaborate with the content team to develop stories and content that highlight the club's positive impact on the community, showcasing local fans, partners, and community programs.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Communications, Event Management, or a related field.
- 2-4 years of experience in marketing, community relations, or event planning, preferably in the sports or entertainment industry.
- Proven ability to plan, organize, and execute events from start to finish.
- Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse groups of people.
- Creative and strategic thinker with a passion for building fan loyalty and community engagement.
- Strong project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
- Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, particularly on gamedays.
- Familiarity with the USL Championship and the Northern Virginia community is a plus.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and experience with marketing software or CRM tools is preferred.
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.
