Manager, Business Operations
ESPN
Working at ESPN is unlike anything else. That’s because we’re always finding new ways to interact with fans – however and wherever they connect with sports. When you have the latest technology, game-changing ideas and world-class talent on your team, every day is extraordinary.
ESPN’s Stats & Information Group (SIG) is seeking a Manager of Business Operations who possesses a strong combination of professional communication skills, a track record of people development, and business acumen to assist the SIG’s Vice President of Sports Analytics and Business Operations with overseeing the department’s development efforts, internal and external communication, and various business initiatives.
The manager will be a leading voice in the department’s group-level communication, both internally and externally. This includes announcements, presentations, and working with sports conference organizers. Demonstrated excellence in communications or public relations is highly desirable.
The manager will play an important role in SIG’s commitment to growing and developing people. This person will help conceive, create and execute staff events, regular learning sessions, mentorship programs and the monthly sessions of the group’s leadership enhancement program. The manager will contribute to SIG’s efforts to recruit, reward and retain. This may include travel to represent ESPN and SIG at colleges and conferences. S/He will work closely with ESPN Human Resources on development opportunities, training, and Disney initiatives. Through these various staff development endeavors, the manager will help build successful professionals for one of the world’s largest sports media companies.
The manager will assist SIG’s senior leadership team by partnering with ESPN’s Legal, Business Development and Business Affairs to manage existing data contracts and explore new opportunities, as well as with ESPN’s finance team to ensure SIG’s budget is used efficiently and effectively. This person will be part of the team that works closely with partners in ESPN’s Sales and Marketing to turn content executions into potential sponsorship opportunities.
Ideal candidates will possess the following traits:
- Excellent oral and written communication skills
- Commitment to identifying, developing and retaining diverse talent
- Demonstrated excellence in working collaboratively with different departments
- Organizational and business skills necessary to assist with SIG’s budget and data contracts
- Passion for sports storytelling with statistics and information
Responsibilities
- Work with the VP of Sports Analytics and Business Operations to oversee the Stats & Information Group’s business and staff development operations
- Frequently collaborate with leaders across several ESPN departments (HR, Marketing Solutions, Finance, Legal, Communications, Business Affairs, Business Development, etc.)
- Oversee the department’s internal and external communication efforts
- Collaborate on cross-functional projects and initiatives with studio, technology and business partners
- Hold regular performance “catchups” with direct reports and deliver quarterly reviews
- Seek and respond to feedback around personal performance
- Develop and cultivate relationships with data providers from professional sports leagues, college media relations offices and third-party entities
- Actively participate in team and department meetings
- Demonstrate a working knowledge of statistics’ role in ESPN production
Basic Qualifications
- 5+ years’ experience working in the sports media industry or with a professional sports team or league
- Thorough knowledge of a wide variety of sports
- Full availability for this position, which will include nights, weekends and holidays
Preferred Qualifications
- 1+ years’ experience managing people, including oversight of direct reports
- Experience in internet, television, or print sports news production
- Experience working for a professional team or league in a communications or media relations role
- Spanish-language writing and speaking skills
Required Education
- High School diploma or equivalent
Additional Information
ESPN is an equal opportunity employer - Female/Minority/Veteran/Disability/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity. Our goal is to create an inclusive workplace for all.
Full Time