Director, Communications

**Position**: Director, Communications & Marketing

**Reports to**: VP, Business Operations

**Location**: Winnipeg, MB

**Job Type**: Permanent, Full-time, Salary

**About the Winnipeg Sea Bears**

The Winnipeg Sea Bears joined the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) as an expansion franchise in 2023. As Winnipeg's only professional basketball team, the Sea Bears play out of the Canada Life Centre from May to August, competing in a 24-game regular season that culminates in Championship Weekend (CW). Notably, Winnipeg will host CW in August 2025.

The Sea Bears roster is assembled each spring, featuring a mix of elite talent from the NBA, G-League, top international leagues, and U SPORTS. Since its inception, the team has been dedicated to growing the sport of basketball in Manitoba. In their first two seasons, the Sea Bears achieved remarkable success, welcoming a record-breaking 86,500 fans over 10 home games in 2024.

Proud members of the Winnipeg community, the Sea Bears actively support and create initiatives that uplift Manitobans, both within and beyond the realm of sports.

**About the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL)**

Basketball is the fastest-growing sport in Canada, and the CEBL is leading the charge. Created by Canadians for Canadians, the CEBL is recognized as one of the top FIBA professional leagues worldwide. With 10 teams across six provinces and plans for continued expansion, it stands as the largest professional sports league in Canada. Our season runs from May to August, featuring top-tier talent from the NBA, NBA G League, international pro leagues, and Canadian national and collegiate programs.

Join us as we continue to grow Canada's premier pro sports league, now with an exciting new franchise in Winnipeg, Manitoba.

**Position Overview**

The **Director of Communications & Marketing** will be responsible for leading and executing all marketing and communication initiatives. This role involves developing and implementing strategies to support the Winnipeg Sea Bears' long-term growth, brand presence, and audience engagement on a local, national, and international level. You will ensure that all marketing and communications efforts are aligned with the franchise’s strategic goals, with a focus on enhancing brand recognition and community engagement.

**Key Responsibilities**:
**Brand Management**
- Define and implement strategies to promote and build the Winnipeg Sea Bears brand.
- Lead and oversee the visual identity and messaging across all communications.
- Ensure all marketing and communications efforts align with the team’s objectives and inspire community engagement.
- Monitor communications to maintain adherence to Sea Bears’ brand guidelines and visual identity.

**Communications**
- Oversee public relations initiatives, including press releases, website updates, e-newsletters, and media relations.
- Ensure consistency of messaging across all communication channels (online, print, social media).
- Serve as the primary media contact or spokesperson when needed.
- Develop media skills among staff, coaches, and players.
- Fact-check and proofread all communications to ensure accuracy and brand alignment.
- Oversee the production and distribution of marketing collateral.

**Marketing**
- Manage media buys and relationships with media partners within budget.
- Lead digital marketing strategies, including social media, retargeting, and advertising on platforms like Facebook and Instagram.
- Oversee the organization’s website and content, collaborating with third-party providers.
- Identify innovative marketing opportunities to increase ticket sales, merchandise sales, strategic partnerships and brand awareness.
- Liaise with local businesses to maximize marketing reach.
- Conduct market research to understand fan demographics, preferences, and purchasing behaviors.
- Create and manage a comprehensive social media strategy and content calendar.
- Oversee digital media campaigns and work closely with game day staff to enhance the fan experience.

**General Management**
- Develop and execute short-term and long-term multi-channel marketing and communications plans.
- Participate in the creation and management of the annual marketing and communications budget.
- Ensure all marketing and communications projects meet deadlines, budgets, and quality standards.

**Community Engagement**
- Collaborate with the Community Engagement Manager to promote Winnipeg Sea Bears’ events and programs and support community initiatives across Manitoba.

**Other Duties**
- Perform additional duties as assigned by the President to help further organizational goals and objectives.

**Skills and Qualifications**
- Minimum of 5 years in a senior marketing or communications role, ideally within a sports or entertainment environment.
- Post-secondary education in marketing, communications, business, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
- Proven experience in managing brand strategy,