Director, Communications (Press Officer) - Youth and Extended National Teams

Atlanta, GA (On-site)

Salary Not AvailableDirector/Executive8+ years expFull time

Posted 4 months ago

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Job Summary

Drive the multi‑channel YNT/ENT communications at U.S. Soccer as the primary spokesperson and strategy owner.

  • Own the YNT/ENT communications strategy, media operations, and on-site coverage.
  • Must-have: 8–10 years in strategic sports media relations and high-profile storytelling.
  • Standout: Leadership across Sporting, Technical, and MarComms with cross‑federation collaboration.

Job Description

Responsibilities

  • Lead the development and execution of a comprehensive, multi-channel communications strategy for all Youth and Extended National Teams, ensuring alignment with U.S. Soccer’s mission, brand, and strategic priorities.
  • Serve as the Federation’s primary spokesperson and senior media contact for all YNT and ENT matters, managing relationships with domestic and international outlets.
  • Advise and support leadership across Sporting, Technical, and MarComms teams on communications strategy related to player development, pathway storytelling, and tournament exposure.
  • Oversee and mentor staff or contractors supporting YNT/ENT communications, including on-site media operations and content development.
  • Collaborate closely with counterparts across the Men’s and Women’s National Teams to ensure cohesive Federation-wide narratives.
  • Drive proactive storytelling that highlights diversity, development, and inclusion—particularly through U.S. Soccer’s ADAPTandTHRIVE initiative.
  • Develop executive talking points and Federation statements related to youth development, inclusion, and extended team programs.
  • Lead media operations during major YNT/ENT competitions and events, ensuring consistent and professional representation of U.S. Soccer.
  • Partner with Content, Digital, and Creative teams to amplify player and team stories across owned channels.
  • Track and analyze coverage and sentiment, leveraging insights to refine messaging and measure communications impact.

Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or related field.
  • 8–10 years of professional experience in communications or media relations, preferably within sports, entertainment, or national governing body environments.
  • Demonstrated success leading strategic communications efforts, managing high-profile media relationships, and overseeing event-based media operations.
  • Strong writing, editing, and storytelling skills across platforms.
  • Proven ability to develop messaging frameworks and execute cross-channel communications campaigns.
  • Experience working with athletes, coaches, and leadership in high-performance, media-intense environments.
  • General knowledge of soccer.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
  • Must be able to connect “micro” details to the “macro” vision and mission.
  • Proficient experience with Microsoft Suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Outlook)

Preferred

  • Strong understanding of player development pathways, youth sports, or international soccer.
  • Demonstrated success in proactive media pitching and reputation management.
  • Ability to collaborate across departments and influence senior leaders.
  • Commitment to U.S. Soccer’s mission of growing the game for all.
  • Confidence without ego.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Benefits

  • U.S. Soccer offers a comprehensive compensation package, casual work environment, an inclusive culture, and an atmosphere for professional development.