Director of Alumni Relations

Job Summary:

The Director, Alumni Relations is responsible for maintaining and enhancing VSG’s relationship with its former players, ensuring that Alumni are actively involved in the club’s initiatives, community outreach, and fan engagement. The Director of Alumni Relations will provide strategy and leadership to develop, implement, and maintain a comprehensive program designed to provide meaningful experiences for Alumni. This position is responsible for the planning and implementation of opportunities and projects that strategically engage Alumni to enhance loyalty, dedication, and support for the Tampa Bay Lightning organization. The Director of Alumni Relations will lead efforts to create and sustain strong value connections for former players and Vinik Sports Group across the community as well as facilitate the growth of Alumni engagement and participation.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

• Provide vision, leadership, and oversight to plan and execute the strategy of the Alumni Relations department related to the engagement of Alumni within the organization and throughout the Tampa Bay Community.

• Create a multi-year plan for the Alumni Relations program that results in the growth of the program exhibited through greater alumni involvement.

• Plan, implement and promote Alumni programs that support VSG’s strategic plan and organizational goals.

• Craft portfolio of events that align with Alumni Relations goals, including Fantasy Camp in partnership with the Foundation’s Community & Hockey Development, Hall of Fame recognition, and other events as determined (e.g. golf tournament).

• Collaborate with the Marketing and Communications team to develop a multifaceted alumni communications plan to increase alumni engagement within VSG and throughout the community.

• Engage alumni in the life of Vinik Sports Group through consistent and positive communication, exceptional customer service, and meaningful opportunities for volunteerism, service, events and programs.

• Create opportunities for interaction among Alumni and VSG staff, potential partners and the Tampa Bay Community.

• Develop and execute promotional events and partnerships that raise the visibility of VSG and its Alumni.

• Collaborate with the NHL Players’ Association (NHLPA) and NHL Alumni Association on player wellness and post-retirement initiatives.

• Collaborate with the Hockey Hall of Fame and other institutions for storytelling and archival projects.

• Assist Alumni with building their personal brands and creating visibility in the region. 

• Develop agendas and run quarterly Alumni Relations advisory board meetings to drive strategy.

• Establish processes to ensure a smooth transition into the program when a former Lightning player retires.

• Manage funds by planning, developing and managing departmental budget.

• Create reports and analysis tools to help ensure the program is responsive to the needs of alumni.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

Game/Event Responsibilities:

• Game/Event Night responsibilities: Yes

Qualifications:

• At least 7-10 years relevant experience in a non-profit or related alumni relations field

• Bachelor’s degree preferred

• Experience in sports and entertainment industry or other related industry preferred

• Experience managing and leading team members

• Demonstrated skill in building and maintaining effective working relationships with athletes and coworkers

• Ability to build credibility and establish trust among players and management

• Experience putting on successful, large-scale events

• Excellent written and oral communication skills

• Ability to handle multiple tasks, allocate and optimize resources, and manage timelines

• Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Office (Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint, and Word)

• Results oriented with strong interpersonal and customer service skills

• Strong organizational and time management skills

• Ability to maintain strict confidentiality and use of discretion

• Ability to work collaboratively with others

• Ability to work extended hours, including events, weekends, and holidays, as necessary

Working Conditions:

• Ability to work efficiently and effectively in an office and arena environment that can be exciting, loud and distracting 

• Ability to work extended hours including late nights, holidays, and weekends as needed 

• Ability to lift/carry/move up to 50lbs 

• Ability to work in cold/hot indoor and outdoor temperatures 

• Ability to commute to various venues throughout the Greater Tampa Bay Area 

• Ability to commute/travel within the Greater Tampa Area and the US for up to one week at a time 

• Ability to travel within the US and Canada for up to one-week at a time, multiple times per year 

• Ability to work in areas that can become crowded with equipment and/or people 

• Ability to move comfortably throughout the arena with minimal accommodations 

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.