Sr. Manager of Media Relations - Atlanta Thrashers

http://hockeyjobs.nhl.com/teamwork/r.cfm?i=29813

The Atlanta Thrashers currently have an immediate opening for a Sr. Manager in the Media Relations department. This position will assist in the creation and execution of media relations with regards to hockey operations as well as coordinate all internal and external team-related media requests. The company offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, 401(k), Flexible Spending Account and paid time off.



Responsibilities and Duties:
• Assist with the execution of hockey operations media relations (i.e. players, coaches and management); coordinate media requests to include interviews, photo shoots, community appearances, etc.
• Perform as media liaison during team practices in Duluth, GA.
• Travel with team for 30-60% of road games managing all media services and team-related logistics.
• Assist in development and proofing of information disseminated about the team, including team-related releases and other correspondence (i.e. advisories, letters, memos) for internal and external communications.
• Oversee the set up of all media operations for home games including credentialing and player needs; provide media, broadcasters, visiting team and internal management with timely, accurate information.
• Act as liaison in handling all player media requests prior to, during and post-game, including pre-tape interviews, intermission and post game guests on game days.
• Coordinate and disseminate team-related transactions with regards to roster moves, signings, trades, etc. in order to maximize local/national press coverage.
• Oversee the research and database maintenance of all team-related statistical information; work with Manager of Media Relations on the production of the media guide and edit the content of game notes, other printed materials and website material as it pertains to all hockey matters.
• Assist with preparation for the upcoming season and all aspect of training camp and prospect camp.
• Assist Senior Director of Media Relations with coordinating other departmental needs for player and staff promotional use to include team functions, community and sponsorship outreach programs and player-related events.
• Attend and work major team/league events, including the NHL Entry Draft.

Qualifications:
• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, or related field required.
• Excellent working knowledge of the National Hockey League, professional sports or related industry a must.
• Minimum four years public relations experience preferred.
• Must be able to work long hours and be willing to travel.
• Excellent verbal, written and administrative skills required.
• Strong organizational skills with ability to manage multiple priorities and work under pressure.
• In addition to strong interpersonal skills, must show initiative and sound decision making in order to build and maintain professional relationships.
• PC competence with a strong working knowledge in Excel, Word, Power Point and Quark.


Note: When you apply for this job online, you will be required to answer the following questions:

1. Yes/No: Do you have a Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations or a related field?
2. Yes/No: Do you have an in depth working knowledge of the National Hockey League?
3. Yes/No: Do you have at least fours years experience in Public Relations?
4. Yes/No: Are you able to work a flexible schedule and travel?

 

Cool! And in a year or two, you can move with the team to Canada!!

 

I know the folks you'd be working with/for in this position and would be happy to answer any questions via PM. All kidding about the potential relocation of the franchise aside (short version: will happen only over Gary Bettman's dead body) ATL's hockey community is small be passionate about their Thrash.

 

Man. You gotta love how people find ways to rag on great openings ... Let's just say that if the team moved to Canada, you'd still be working in the NHL. Anyone got any idea how difficult it is to land a PR gig in one of the Big 4? It's nearly impossible. And those who work their butts off to land those gigs wouldn't turn down an opportunity no matter where it was based.

Rant aside - This job is made for current #2's - meaning, guys who are assistant directors for NHL teams. The smart ones won't get their hopes up for this gig, but they'll watch to see who gets it ... cause 99% of new hires create an opening somewhere else.

 

This would basically be a lateral move for a current #2 - it's middle management in a three-person full-time team. And they're not kidding about the travel question - this person will be doing the majority of the roadies, except for maybe the ones up to the NYC area.

 

Wow. You must really be new here if you seriously think I was "ragging" about this possibly leading to an NHL job in Canada.

(P.S. I'm kidding, Lisa - I want more teams here, but not necessarily at the expense of your team. )

 

Does anyone know who was hired for this position?