Strategic Communications Specialist - Volleyball & Softball

Intercollegiate Athletics

The University of Missouri Athletics Department is seeking an experienced, proactive and detail-oriented communications professional for the position of Assistant Director of Strategic Communications. This role will serve as the primary strategic communications contact for the Mizzou Volleyball and Softball programs, helping shape and share the stories of two of Mizzou's most competitive and visible women's sports while working closely with coaches, student-athletes and staff to promote both programs locally and nationally.

This position plays a pivotal role in developing and executing strategic communications plans that enhance the visibility of Mizzou Athletics while supporting the department's storytelling, brand, and fan engagement goals.

Key Responsibilities Include:

Serving as the primary strategic communications contact for Mizzou Volleyball and Mizzou Softball, overseeing all aspects of media relations, content development, game notes, statistics, press releases, and media opportunities.

Building strong relationships with coaches, student-athletes, and staff to generate compelling content that enhances the visibility and brand of both programs.

Collaborating with both teams' Creative Director to generate innovative and engaging content across all platforms, with a particular focus on in-season storytelling and off-season brand development.

Managing media requests, coordinate interviews and arrange press availability for both programs.

Traveling as needed with Volleyball and Softball teams, serving as on-site communications lead for media relations and content capture.

Contributing to the strategic communications planning for high-impact department initiatives, postseason events and major announcements.

Maintaining updated bios, rosters, statistics, records and historical archives for assigned sports.

Collaborating with internal stakeholders to support ticket sales, community engagement, and recruiting initiatives through strategic communications.

Leading and mentoring student interns and event staff assisting with game-day operations, press box management and postgame duties.

Collaborating with SEC and NCAA offices on reporting, awards nominations and statistical accuracy.

Contributing to department-wide initiatives, including coverage of additional sports as needed.

Monday-Friday 8:00am-5:00pm; Nights, Weekends, and Travel as required.

A Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience and at least 2 years of experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired is necessary

Experience as the primary contact for a collegiate volleyball, softball, or other sport program.

Salary Range: $53,000 - $60,000

Grade: GGS 9E

University Title: STRATEGIC COMMUNICATIONS CONSULTANT

Internal applicants can determine their university title by accessing the Talent Profile tile in myHR.

Columbia offers small-town friendliness with big city features and a high quality of life for people of all ages and interests. Founded on education and known as an ideal college town, its location also makes it an attractive spot for businesses and travelers. Located on Interstate 70 and U.S. Highway 63, Columbia is right in the middle of the state and the nation. Just a couple hours' drive from St. Louis and Kansas City, Columbia is Boone County's largest population center offering big-city culture, activities, and resources with a low cost of living. Columbia is home to a variety of restaurants and entertainment venues and hosts more than a dozen festivals each year. If you want to grow your career, continue your education, raise a family, and retire, Columbia is a good place to be!

This position is eligible for University benefits. As part of your total compensation, the University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, paid time off, short- and long-term disability, paid parental leave, paid caregiver leave, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at https://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

To request ADA accommodations, please call the Director of Accessibility and ADA at 573-884-7278.