Executive Associate AD, External Affairs and Chief Communication Officer
The Ohio State University
Columbus, OH
Department: Athletics | Administration
Job Description
The Executive Associate Athletic Director – External Affairs and Chief Communications Officer is a key member of the Department of Athletics leadership team, reporting directly to the Deputy Director of Athletics. This role provides strategic leadership and operational oversight of all external affairs functions, including strategic communication, brand management, marketing, creative media, digital strategy, public relations, and fan engagement.
The role will serve as the primary communications strategist and spokesperson for the athletic department, ensuring alignment with institutional priorities and enhancing the visibility, reputation, and relevance of the athletics program. Additionally, this role will serve as the primary liaison to the university marketing and communications departments.
Oversee all media relations, public messaging, press strategy, and digital platforms. Direct crisis communications planning and execution to protect and enhance the institution’s reputation. Ensure proactive storytelling to highlight student-athlete success, coaching excellence, program achievements, and community impact.
Direct the creative services team to deliver cutting-edge content across platforms, with an emphasis on elite recruiting content for all 36 sports. Drive innovation in digital strategy, social media, and fan experience initiatives. Collaborate with revenue-generating units (ticketing, development, sponsorship, NIL, trademark and licensing) to support departmental revenue goals. Support development initiatives, sponsorship engagement, and ticket sales initiatives through coordinated efforts driven by data analysis.
Function: Marketing and Communications
Sub-Function: Communications and Public Relations Strategy and Management
Career Band: Managerial
Career Level: M5
Minimum Required Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience. Advanced degree may be required. 12 years of relevant experience required. 15 or more years of relevant experience preferred.
Desired Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in public relations, communications, marketing, business, sports management, or a related field. Minimum of 8 years of progressive management experience in athletics administration, communications, marketing, or external affairs; Demonstrated success in leading large, diverse teams across multiple external units; Exceptional communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills.
How to Apply
https://osu.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/OSUCareers/job/Executive-Associate-AD--External-Affairs-and-Chief-Communication-Officer_R139136-1
Applicants should submit the following:
1. An up-to-date and detailed curriculum vitae (CV)
2. A letter of interest that includes:
- Your interest in the Executive Associate Athletic Director for External Affairs and Chief Communications Officer position.
- How your experience makes you a strong candidate for the role.
- Why is this the right time for you to pursue this opportunity.
All inquiries and nominations should be submitted to Shannon Rice, Rice.724@osu.edu.
Please submit all application materials by November 14th.
Additional Information:
The Ohio State University Department of Athletics and Business Advancement is a nationally recognized leader in collegiate athletics, driven by a higher purpose to serve student-athletes, staff, and the broader community through excellence, innovation, and tradition. With more than 1,000 student-athletes across 36 teams, the department is supported by over 600 full-time staff and operates on a budget exceeding $400 million, overseeing 28 state-of-the-art facilities Guided by its mission—The People. The Tradition. Excellence. —the department is committed to fostering competitive excellence, fiscal accountability, operational efficiency, and an exceptional experience for guests, staff, and student-athletes alike.
The university is an equal opportunity employer, including veterans/disability.
