Job Title: Manager, Broadcasting & Communications
Department: Communications
Reports to: VP, Marketing, Content & Operations
# Direct Reports: N/A
The Top Shelf:
The Rockford IceHogs Manager, Broadcast and Communications is a position based in Rockford, Illinois that is responsible for the generation of all game IceHogs broadcasts, home and away, on the IceHogs broadcasting network. These broadcasts include pre- and post-production and play-by-play for all regular season, postseason, and preseason games. The Manager, Broadcast and Communications will also generate positive publicity for the Rockford IceHogs, including traditional hockey media and unique story ideas surrounding the team and players. This role will be responsible for coordinating the day-to-day hockey media relations efforts in Rockford, facilitating all media availabilities for the Rockford IceHogs Head Coach, Players and select members of the hockey operations staff that operates on site along with the Coordinator, Communications & Social Media.
How You’ll Contribute:
- Produce broadcast and provide play-by-play for every preseason, regular season and postseason IceHogs game on the IceHogs Broadcasting Network
- Conduct interviews and create feature stories that can be used in the broadcast and on the IceHogs digital media platforms
- Maintain relationships with outlets in the IceHogs Broadcasting Network
- Serve as the organizations voice at team functions including but not limited to season ticket member events, charitable events and press conferences
- Assist the Chicago Blackhawks Communications Department with all responsibilities as it pertains to the Rockford IceHogs hockey team and participate in all department discussions and meetings virtually
- Work in conjunction with the Coordinator, Digital Content & Social Media in overseeing the IceHogs communications department
- Serve as a main media relations point of contact for the IceHogs executives, head coach and players
- Assist with the creation, editing and publishing of content for IceHogs.com, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook and TikTok, including coverage of IceHogs’ games, practices, events, and appearances
- Assist with managing content calendars for all social channels
- Draft and edit all written materials for the Communications Department as it pertains to the Rockford IceHogs, which includes, but is not limited to: game notes, press releases/advisories, game day documents, post-game notes, media guides and department manuals
- Coordinate all media credentialing and distribution at IceHogs practices, games and events – which includes working as the direct point of contact for the IceHogs
- Manage media servicing at IceHogs practices and games day, including the press box on game nights
- Manage all hockey information services for media and coaching staff on practice and game days
- Pitch non-traditional and human-interest stories on the IceHogs players to local and national media outlets
- Maintain, cultivate and grow relationships with local Rockford hockey and news reporters
- Track media coverage of all IceHogs events and announcements to assist in keeping all hockey team executives informed
Player Stats and Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Broadcasting, Mass Communications, Broadcast Journalism, Multi Media or similar relevant degree with a minimum 3-5 years equivalent experience with a professional sports team or in media.
- Extensive knowledge of the game of hockey and the ability to story tell
- Ability to maintain the highest level of confidentiality
- Interpersonal skills –listens to others, works well in a team environment
- Excellent communication skills including written and verbal; ability to present ideas clearly and concisely
- Can prioritize work activities and use time efficiently
- Must be capable of handling multiple projects
- Adaptability – adapts to change in the work environment, manages competing demands and is able to handle frequent changes
- Dependability – consistently at work on time, follows instructions, responds to manager’s instructions
- Creative thinking and ability to work with a sense of urgency is required
- Ability to work extended hours around the team game schedule, including nights, weekends, holidays
- Strong social media sense and knowledge
- Strong computer skills – including all Microsoft Office software programs, Adobe products, including but not limited to Soundbooth, Premiere and Photoshop, along with Zoom; be on the cutting edge of emerging technologies that support the Communications field
- Ability to address, adapt to, and overcome challenges in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
- Demonstrated aptitude for driving results
- High attention to detail
The Team:
The Rockford IceHogs, founded in 1999 and members of the American Hockey League (AHL), is a premier organization and primary development affiliate of the Chicago Blackhawks. Located in Rockford, IL, the Team calls the newly renovated BMO Center its home.
As the longest running professional sports team in Rockford, the organization has developed a passionate local fan base and has set multiple attendance records over the years, while establishing a strong a community presence.
The Rockford IceHogs’ goal is to continue providing exceptional fan experiences, elevating fan attendance, making a substantial impact in the community and continuing their commitment to developing exceptional talent.
The Rockford IceHogs is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity at all levels. All individuals, regardless of personal characteristics, are encouraged to apply. All qualified applications will receive consideration for employment without regard to gender, race, religion or religious creed, color, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, marital status, registered domestic partner status, age, sexual orientation, military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by federal, state, local law, ordinance, or regulation and will not be discriminated against on these bases.
