Senior Manager Hockey Outreach, Alumni & Player Engagement

Job Summary

Leading a small team, reporting to the Marketing Department, the Senior Manager Hockey Outreach, Alumni and Player Engagement will play a key role in the Ottawa Senators organization. Working closely with the broader Marketing department and acting as the primary liaison to the Senators Community Foundation, the position will develop programs for the above groups that will help drive revenue, grow the game via children and youth in the national capital region and build a positive brand reputation. In addition, the role will liaise with the NHL, and internal departments to execute league and club priorities across several verticals and ensure ongoing tracking and knowledge of industry and brand best practice.

Key Responsibilities

Outreach:

• Manage and facilitate implementation of hockey programs, events, and staff as it relates to business plan, including but not limited to, community outreach initiatives, educational initiatives, special events, player engagement and community corporate partnerships.
• Contribute to the development of a strategic plan for all Senators minor hockey development programs (Sens in school, Learn to Skate, etc.) initiatives, and events with purpose of engaging current fans and recruiting new fans by creating heart-filled storytelling opportunities. 
• Collaborate with Communications, Digital Marketing, and the Senators Community Foundation teams to develop strategic plan for storytelling and promotion of the Ottawa Senators Hockey Club’s and Community development initiatives. 

Alumni:

• Plan and execute annual Sens Alumni golf tournament along with other marquee events.
• Acts as the primary connection with the NHL Alumni and the Ottawa Senators Organization. This includes both the NHL and the AHL teams.
• Assist Alumni with building their personal brands and creating visibility in the region.
• Work with the NHL Alumni to drive revenue opportunities in arena, in media, with sponsors and key season ticket holders.
• Work with local and regional NHL Alumni to develop consistent programs that feature the Alumni.

Player Engagement:

• Support hockey to develop players as an effective ambassador of the brand in our community and with fans and other stakeholders.
• Develop and maintain a productive and positive relationship with hockey operations to ensure effective outcomes for the business in relation to player engagement.
• Identify opportunities for player involvement in key initiatives for the team including Senators Community Foundation, Marketing and Sales initiatives.
• Assist players in the development of their individual brand.
• Serve as the primary contact between business operations and hockey, relating to player engagement (excluding media relations).

Required Skills

• Strong problem-solving skills
• Previous experience as a professional athlete or working alongside professional athletes and or other high-profile individuals.
• Ability to interact with a variety of different departments & senior management team.
• Strong written & verbal communication skills.
• Exhibit creative approaches generating awareness and promotion.
• Ability to prioritize.
• Previous experience in marketing, youth hockey events.
• Ability to function effectively in a fast-paced environment.

Minimum Requirements

• Strong organizational and multi-tasking skills.
• Leadership skills with the ability to conceptualize, execute, and see projects through to completion.
• Minimum of five (5) years of experience in community relations, public relations, or event management. 
• Willingness to coach and mentor direct and indirect reports in an effort to build a culture of high performance.
• Willingness and ability to work flexible hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Ability to solve problems and make decisions in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent oral and written communications skills.
• Proven ability to build relationships and collaborate with multiple stakeholders.
• Strong event management skills with history of leading successful events, activations and/or experience.
• Degree in Communications, Public Relations, Sports Management, Marketing, or a related field.
• A passion for community service, and a knowledge of non-profit organizations.

We would like to thank all applicants for applying; however, only those applicants selected for an interview will be contacted. Applications received will be maintained on file for a period of 6 months and may be referenced for future staffing requirements.

Senators Sports & Entertainment supports the goals of Ontario Regulation 191/11 - Integrated Accessibility Standards and is pleased to accommodate applicants who have a disability during the recruitment process. Please inform the Human Resources Department at 613-599-0250 if you require a disability related accommodation in order to participate in the recruitment process.

SSE is committed to building an inclusive process that respects the dignity and independence of people with disabilities.