Head of Video

Responsibilities

• Help build and launch our highlights properties, developing new, unique formats that utilize league highlights rights while incorporating analysis from our journalists.
• While this person won’t be responsible for leading our podcasts, shows and other franchises that are part of the Series and Specials team, they will be expected to work closely with the leadership of that group to align on company priorities and video excellence. 
• Responsible for scaling our team in order to help make a more video-forward newsroom.
• Manage the video groups in Creative Development, including our UK operation, reporter video, original social video and the highlights team. 
• Partner with leadership to set ambitious goals and manage the team effectively toward those goals, with wide latitude in how goals are accomplished. 
• Collaborate closely with our newsroom to create video formats and templates that highlight our journalism and connect our journalists with subscribers. 
• Work closely with the commercial team to create formats and audience growth that will help drive commercial revenue. 
• Partner with vertical leads across the newsroom to align with and complement our editorial strategy, both amplifying the journalism and finding new audiences for the storytelling. 
• Serve as the connective tissue between video production and the heads of all other departments within the company to ensure that the video team’s output is appropriately supported, promoted, and monetized. 
• Develop meaningful relationships with leaders throughout The Athletic.
• Provide input into the organization of the production team to ensure the team is set up to achieve its ambitious growth targets while staying within budget. 

Requirements

• 10+ years of experience producing video for online platforms, including highlights and social video. 
• A track record when it comes to launching and sustaining successful video templates.
• Expert knowledge of a wide range of video formats and distribution channels. Has a finger on the pulse of industry trends and can see ahead 12-18 months. 
• Deep and intimate understanding of how online video algorithms work, with an exceptional ability to crack these algorithms and achieve audience growth across YouTube, TikTok and social. 
• Extensive programming experience and demonstrable knowledge of video platforms best practice, such as optimizing video titles, descriptions, hashtags and thumbnails.
• A master of video analytics, with an ability to explain why a video did or didn’t perform well.
• Has a deep understanding of sports with a fluency in how topics are covered and discussed by fans. Has an eye for high quality creative output that resonates with listeners. 
• A strong understanding of our sports journalism along with high editorial standards.
• Experience working on commercial projects, e.g. branded content.
• Is an excellent leader who enjoys facilitating the personal development of colleagues.
• Self-starter with great time management skills. 
• Strong attention to detail and highly organized. 
• Ability to make difficult decisions for the good of the business. 
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills. 
• This is a remote-based position in the United States, United Kingdom or Canada that will require some travel.