Director of Athletic Communications

Located in Rindge, NH, Franklin Pierce University (FPU) is close to Boston and New York City yet provides the natural beauty and safety of a rural campus, with access to outdoor activities, the arts, excellent educational options for families, and more. The University possesses strengths such as a welcoming and inclusive community, growing health professions-related undergraduate and graduate programs on campus, online, and at four Centers across the U.S., a personalized approach to learning, as well as growing career-readiness capacity, and a reputation as an NCAA Division II athletics powerhouse.

FPU seeks an experienced, creative, and collaborative professional to lead the university’s Athletic Communications operation, developing and executing a comprehensive strategy that elevates the visibility and storytelling of the department’s 20+ varsity programs. The position will oversee all aspects of athletic communications, including media relations, digital and social media strategy, live coverage, branding, and historical records, while working closely with coaches, administrators, and student-athletes to promote the success of FPU Athletics. The Director will manage the creation and distribution of all external communications, including game recaps, feature stories, press releases, and multimedia content, ensuring consistent messaging and alignment with institutional priorities. The role will serve as the primary media contact for assigned sports, cultivating relationships with local, regional, and national media outlets while coordinating interviews, press opportunities, and coverage.

The position oversees all digital content strategy, including website management, social media platforms, live streaming coordination, and graphic design direction, with an emphasis on enhancing fan engagement, recruiting visibility, and brand consistency across all platforms. The Director will supervise and mentor athletic communications staff, interns, and student workers, building a high-functioning team capable of supporting all sports programs effectively.

Additional responsibilities include managing statistical reporting, record-keeping, and historical archives; ensuring timely and accurate reporting to the NCAA and conference office; coordinating game day operations for home contests; and leading the department’s efforts in awards and nominations for student-athletes and coaches. The role will collaborate with campus marketing and advancement teams to align athletics messaging with broader university initiatives and support fundraising and alumni engagement efforts.

The Director is responsible for maintaining full compliance with NCAA, conference, and University policies, while representing the institution with professionalism and integrity. Responsibilities also include participation in institutional events such as commencement, support of special events including the Hall of Fame Induction ceremony, and other duties as assigned by athletic administration.

Qualifications include a bachelor’s degree (master’s degree preferred) in communications, sports management, journalism, or a related field, along with prior experience in athletic communications, sports information, or media relations, preferably at the collegiate level. Candidates should demonstrate strong writing, editing, and storytelling abilities, as well as experience managing digital platforms, including websites and social media.

The role requires strong organizational and project management skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. Experience with statistical software, content management systems, live streaming platforms, and graphic design tools is preferred. Candidates must possess strong interpersonal and leadership skills, along with a demonstrated commitment to supporting student-athlete success and enhancing the visibility of athletics programs.

Relocation is available, and while this is primarily an on-campus position, a flexible work schedule is possible. FPU offers competitive wages and benefits packages, including medical, dental and vision coverage, 403(b) retirement plan through TIAA, life insurance, short- and long-term disability, educational benefits (for employee and qualifying dependents), pet insurance, accident insurance, critical illness coverage, travel discounts, 160 hours of paid time off (PTO), with additional paid sick time for your well-being, and paid holidays.

Candidates should submit a cover letter, résumé, and contact information for three references (references will not be checked until the finalist stage of the search). FPU is committed to enhancing the diversity of its community in many realms and is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EEO). Find out more at https://www.franklinpierce.edu.