Employment

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Organization: Horizon League
Position Title: John McLendon Messaging Fellow - APPLY HERE
Reports to: Assistant Commissioner for Communications and Broadcasting
Location: Indianapolis, IN
Search Contact: Prodigy Search & McLendon Foundation

BACKGROUND

The McLendon Leadership Initiative (MLI) is a national fellowship program designed to create access and opportunity in the sports industry while developing principled, purpose-driven leaders. Open to individuals with a bachelor’s degree who aspire to build a career in sports, MLI seeks candidates who reflect the values of Coach John McLendon and bring unique perspectives shaped by their personal, educational, and professional experiences. Fellows take part in a year-long professional development experience through placements at top athletic departments and sports organizations across the country.

SUMMARY

The Horizon League is an NCAA Division I athletics conference comprised of 11 member institutions headquartered in Indianapolis. The League and our member schools develop nearly 4,000 student-athletes for life. Through unique opportunities in major metropolitan cities, their athletic, academic and personal aspirations can be achieved. Because what they learn today will inspire who they become tomorrow.

The Horizon League membership includes 11 institutions that have a storied tradition of broad-based athletics programs. Membership includes Cleveland State University, the University of Detroit Mercy, IU Indianapolis, Northern Kentucky University, Oakland University, Purdue University Fort Wayne, Robert Morris University, the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Wright State University and Youngstown State University.

The Messaging Fellow will report to the Assistant Commissioner for Communications and Broadcasting. In the areas of messaging and communications, this position will work with the Associate Commissioner for Branding, Messaging and Strategic Initiatives and the Assistant Director for Creative Content in delivering messaging and content that aligns with the values and brand of the Horizon League. 

RESPONSIBILITIES

Messaging and Communications

  • Serve as the primary communications contact for assigned sports.
  • Produce content for the League’s website and social media channels including, but not limited to, press releases and game notes.
  • Attend select championships and provide communications and social media coverage.
  • Assist with the execution of League’s social media plan including creating, editing and publishing content across all social media channels.
  • Maintain statistics and record books for assigned sports.
  • Assist with student-athlete connection by traveling to campuses to assist with Life in the League content.
  • Assist the League on special projects and other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION

Required

  • Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in event management, sports management, or a related field.  

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Must possess excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and experience with Adobe Creative Suite, specifically Photoshop, InDesign preferred.
  • Proficiency in use and knowledge of all social media platforms.
  • Travel and evening and weekend work is required.
  • Editorial judgement for distribution of press releases, social media posts and website content.
  • The League offers a flexible work structure; however, the successful candidate must reside in or relocate to the greater Indianapolis area.

CHARACTERISTICS AND TRAITS

  • Capacity to juggle multiple responsibilities simultaneously in deadline-driven environment.
  • Attention to detail, accuracy in all work and strong written and communication skills.
  • Professional, optimistic, positive problem-solver.
  • Ability to thrive in a dynamic, continuously changing college athletics landscape.
  • The ability to think creatively for solutions and strategies.

 COMPENSATION STRUCTURE / STIPEND

  • This position is in partnership with the McLendon Foundation and includes a stipend of $35,000; $3,500 per month, paid out bi-weekly over a 10-month period by the McLendon Foundation as a 1099 independent contractor. 

CONTACT INFORMATION

Founded in 2007, Prodigy Search, located in the New York City suburb of Freehold, NJ, boasts over 80 years of experience in the sports and entertainment business. As a renowned nationwide leader in senior-level executive search, Prodigy Search has honed its business principles and expertise, establishing itself as one of the largest boutique recruiting agencies in North America. Simply, Prodigy Search is Where the Best Brands Come for the Best Talent.

APPLY HERE

No phone calls please. For any additional questions, please email fellowships@prodigysearch.net