Job Description

JOOLA is seeking a dynamic and versatile PR/Communications Director + Sports Journalist to lead our PR/Communications department. This dual-threat role will be at the helm of our Media Department, responsible for driving all efforts to secure, promote, and activate the JOOLA brand, including JOOLA pickleball, JOOLA table tennis, and all other business entities globally. Depending on experience, this role will be designated as either a Senior Manager or Director.

JOOLA was first established in 1952 and built a global reputation as a pioneer in table tennis. In 2022, JOOLA expanded into the rapidly growing pickleball scene and quickly attracted the biggest names in the sport. As an official table tennis sponsor for three Summer Olympic Games and the official sponsor of pickleball's top athletes and the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA), the team at JOOLA combines its storied expertise with fresh perspectives to bring innovation to both sports. JOOLA creates a variety of equipment, apparel, and accessories for both table tennis and pickleball players, professional and recreational. With offices in the U.S., Germany, Brazil, and China, JOOLA has a global presence and a wide distributor network.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and Implement Communication Strategies: Create and execute comprehensive Earned media and Communications plans that effectively amplify JOOLA's brand, values, and core messages to various consumers, stakeholders, and media.
• Media Relations: Maintain and build relationships with key journalists, media outlets, and influencers to maximize exposure and manage JOOLA's public image.
• Content Creation: Write engaging articles, press releases, social media posts, and newsletters that highlight JOOLA's achievements, events, and innovations in pickleball and table tennis.
• Sports Coverage: Report on pickleball and table tennis events, including live coverage, interviews with athletes and coaches, and in-depth analysis.
• Crisis Communication: Lead crisis communication efforts and manage any potential public relations issues to ensure consistent messaging.
• Collaborate with Marketing Team: Work closely with the marketing team to develop creative concepts and storyboards for campaigns and promotional materials.
• Social Media Engagement: Utilize social media platforms to provide real-time updates, engage with the community, and enhance JOOLA's online presence.
• Editorial Oversight: Supervise and mentor communication team members, ensuring high-quality content production and adherence to brand guidelines.
• Event Coordination: Plan and coordinate JOOLA-sponsored events, tournaments, and community activities to promote the brand and foster engagement.
• Budget Management: Develop and manage the communication budget, ensuring cost-effective use of resources and tracking expenses.
• Video Production: Shoot and edit high-quality video content for various marketing channels, including social media, web, and both long and short-form formats.
• On-Camera Presence: Experience and comfort appearing on camera for interviews, demos, and promotional videos.
• Stay Updated on Industry Trends: Keep abreast of the latest trends and best practices in sports journalism and PR to continuously improve JOOLA's communication strategies.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Marketing, or a related field.
• 7-10+ years of experience in communications, media relations, public relations, or sports journalism, preferably within the sports and/or CPG industries.
• Proven success in media relations and public relations, and event activation.
• Strong grasp of digital and social media strategies.
• Exceptional writing, editing, and proofreading skills.
• Experience in team management and leadership.
• Ability to thrive under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
• Proficiency in video shooting and editing software (e.g., Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro).
• Comfortable appearing on camera and conducting interviews.
• Passion and knowledge of sports.
• Candidates may be asked to provide demos or reels of previous work to showcase their video production and on-camera experience.

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