The Chicago Bulls are seeking a highly motivated and self-starter individual who is passionate about gaining firsthand public and media relations experience. The person who fills the role of Communications Associate will have the rare opportunity to work within both functions of the department – Brand and Basketball – as well as collaborate with various departments within the Chicago Bulls organization, including Community Relations, Digital, Partnerships, and more to assist with our strategic direction of the Communications Department.

This position will start in September 2023 and continue until the conclusion of the 23-24 season.

Key Responsibilities

As a Communications Associate, you will have the opportunity to be part of a dynamic and fun team where you will be expected to assist the staff in all aspects of the team’s brand communications efforts, with occasional basketball support, including:

Support the development of departmental publications (e.g., media guide, preseason guide, playoff guide, game notes, post-game notes, etc.)
Aid in the creation of written communication plans and materials including talking points, fact sheets, social media and website copy, and reports.
Provide reporting support on various campaigns and events
Partner with internal departments to assist with internal communications across the organization
Provide support at events such as press conferences, media day, community events, etc.
Assist as a communications point person at external media events
Research, write and edit various communication materials (e.g. pitches, news releases, blogs, award submissions, briefing documents, etc.) ensuring accuracy, quality and consistency.
Support message development of programs and initiatives, events, and stories for people across a variety of internal channels (email, events, internal newsletter, web stories, and more)
Update brand communications media contact list
Perform additional projects as needed

Qualifications

The team is looking to place a highly organized and driven individual who works well across departments. You could be a potential match for this role if you have a strong mix of the following:

Bachelor’s degree in public relations, journalism or a communications-related field
An understanding of public relations and corporate communications
At least one year of experience in sports communications or public/media relations at either the professional or collegiate level, and can effectively perform the duties as listed above
Knowledge of local media and familiarity working with media monitoring tools and related metrics reporting
A strong ability to work productively and positively with media and other departments across the organization
Strong communication (both written and verbal) and relationship building skills
Excellent written skills, including editing
Proficiency in Microsoft Office including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook
Highly organized, with attention to detail and strong time management skills
Ability to navigate quickly in a fast-paced environment
Excellent teammate with a strong work ethic and positive energy
Previous experience prioritizing work and adhering to changing deadlines
Ability to take direction and collaborate across multiple teams
Strong professional working demeanor and the ability to handle confidential information
Availability to work flexible hours, outside of normal office hours during the business week and on weekends.

We are an equal opportunity employer committed to a diverse workforce. We do not discriminate against employees based on race, color, religion, sex (including gender identity, sexual orientation, and pregnancy), national origin age, marital status, veteran status, disability, or any other status or characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Communications Associate (23-24 Season)