USA Fencing

USA Fencing

Job Description

TITLE:                                    Communications Coordinator

RESPONSIBLE TO:             Director of Marketing and Business Development

COORDINATES WITH:
Other USA Fencing departments with emphasis on the Marketing Department & USA Fencing sponsors, as well as allied organizations, USOC Media Relation, coaches, athletes, and other media outlets.

POSITION SUMMARY:
Responsible for promoting a positive image of USA Fencing and increasing the organization’s visibility. Issues all media announcements of official USFA positions. Responsible for publication of the organization’s electronic newsletter.  Responsible for overall management of the organization website and related analytics. Also responsible for other functions related to the media field, such as photography and graphic design, media training for staff and athletes, internet portals such as Facebook and Twitter.

QUALIFICATIONS:
Bachelor’s degree in public/media relations, communications or equivalent, and relevant experience. Maturity and judgment to direct and coordinate efforts of the media operation.  Ability to collaborate with other agencies and departments.  Knowledge and capability with current computer applications (Adobe Creative Suite; Windows XP/7; Microsoft Office including Word, Excel and PowerPoint) as well as capability to work effectively with electronic communications.  Photography skills as related to media requirements.  Capability with basic video capture/editing skills.  Ability to prioritize projects, manage time efficiently, handle details and follow several projects simultaneously to conclusion.  Copywriting ability and layout experience is required.  Experience in a web-based environment is desired.  Experience in the fencing industry and/or sport background is a valuable qualification, although not required.

AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY:

1. Promote a positive image of USA Fencing as the national governing body of the Olympic sport of fencing.
2. Work with staff and appropriate groups to identify and implement public relations policies and goals of USA Fencing.
3. Create an annual action plan with timelines for media activities and requirements.
4. Prepare an annual budget for the public relations department and operate within established parameters.
5. Maintain lists (mail & electronic) of national and hometown media contacts.
6. Publicize upcoming events, athlete achievements, competition results and other newsworthy subjects.  Work closely with the Competitions Division for efficient coverage of competitive events, ceremonies, event results, and other significant activities.
7. Maintain current athlete biographies and photo file for all team members.
8. Publish a media guide, develop press kits and coordinate media presence at key events.
9. Coordinate with USOC and F.I.E. media offices to provide press coverage of major fencing events.
10. Respond to inquiries for information on USA Fencing teams, and individual athletes.
11. Provide resource for hometown and national media for information on international fencing from grassroots to the Olympic level competition.
12. Work on-site at key competitions to provide news opportunities for print and broadcast.
13. Manage the Fencing Hall of Fame & athlete recognition programs.
14. Write features and provide information as requested for publications within and outside of the fencing industry.
15. Creation of marketing support materials such as athlete cards, merchandise signs and other projects applicable.
16. Assure the accuracy of all information disseminated by the public relations office.
17. Manage USA Fencing’s internet website, to include social network portals.
18. Serve as the organization photographer for internal and external requirements.
19. Assist the Publisher of American Fencing Magazine, including editing, layout, copy, photography, ad sales, and content management.
20. Coordinate media access to all events.
    
    

Interested individuals should submit a cover letter, resume and three references to:

USA Fencing
Robert Weekes
1 Olympic Plaza
Colorado Springs, CO 80909
r.weekes@usfencing.org