Human Resources

Lake Forest College invites applications for the position of Assistant Athletic Director - Strategic Communication and Administration.

Lake Forest College is a highly selective liberal arts college located on Chicago’s North Shore with a current enrollment of approximately 1,700 students from over 40 states and more than 100 countries. It is one of the most diverse small colleges in the Midwest, with nearly 40% of our student body comprised of domestic minority and international students. Consistently ranked as one of America’s top liberal arts colleges, Lake Forest College fosters an inclusive and supportive academic community. Learn more about Lake Forest College’s recognition as a top-tier college.

The chosen candidate will support the mission of the College and athletic department, which includes intercollegiate varsity athletics, club sports, intramurals, physical education, and recreation. The Assistant Athletic Director of Strategic Communications and Administration will develop, implement, and manage comprehensive communications strategies to enhance the overall support of Forester Athletics throughout the campus community and to external stakeholders. This role is pivotal in continuing the established Tradition of Excellence in Forester Athletics, emphasizing community collaboration and student-athlete success.

The College sponsors 25 intercollegiate varsity sport programs with approximately 500 student-athletes competing annually. Lake Forest is a member of NCAA Division III, the Midwest Conference (MWC), the Northern Collegiate Hockey Association (NCHA), and the United States Handball Association (USHA). The College is an affiliate member of the St. Louis Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SLIAC) for men’s and women’s golf and the Northern Athletics Collegiate Conference (NACC) for men’s and women’s lacrosse. Learn more about Forester Athletics.   

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Develop, implement, and direct comprehensive communication strategies to enhance support for Forester Athletics (including varsity athletics, intramurals, club sports, and the F.A.N. Club).
• Create and execute an annual communication plan incorporating the athletics website, social media platforms, and print materials.
• Execute and oversee the department’s webcasting and video board operation of home contests, including hiring, training, and scheduling student staff.
• Provide on-site supervision and support during all home broadcasts.
• Oversee and manage Forester Athletics' social media accounts and marketing projects.
• Assist the Director of Athletics with departmental searches, onboarding, and annual fundraising efforts.
• Coordinate with the Office of Communications and Marketing on key recruitment materials.
• Develop a cross-training model for game day operations.
• Assist in the oversight of the departmental marketing and graphics team.
• Aid in the completion and submission of annual NCAA and departmental reports.
• Support the day-to-day operations of the F.A.N. Club.
• Develop and execute a strategic plan for annual departmental sponsorships.
• Uphold the mission and values of Lake Forest College and the Forester Athletic Department by serving as a positive campus and community ambassador.
• Complete other duties as assigned by the Director of Athletics.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree preferred.
• Minimum of three years of experience working in an intercollegiate athletic department, athletics setting, or related field.
• Previous experience managing and supervising professional and student staff.
• Ability to manage and meet multiple established goals and projects efficiently and effectively.
• Effective written and oral communication skills.
• Proficiency with computers and media, including Microsoft Suite, Adobe Creative Suite, Photoshop, broadcasting, social media platforms, and video editing.
• An understanding and appreciation of a small liberal arts college environment, NCAA Division III athletics, and the importance of campus integration.

Application Process:

Candidates must submit a detailed letter of application, resume, and list of at least three professional references. Applications received by June 28, 2024, will receive full consideration. The anticipated starting date for the position is August 1, 2024.

Interested candidates should submit all materials electronically via forestersearches@lakeforest.edu.

Salary:

Commensurate with qualifications and experience. Hiring will be contingent on a successful background check.

Lake Forest College embraces diversity and encourages applications from women, members of historically underrepresented groups, veterans, and individuals with disabilities. For more information about Lake Forest College, visit www.lakeforest.edu.