Director Communications
Apply Now Apply Later Job ID 10149764 Location New York, New York, United States Business ESPN Date posted May 13, 2026Job Summary:
ESPN has an immediate opportunity for an experienced, motivated, and innovative Director, Communications
Responsibilities:
- Position is based in New York, NY
- Oversee communications efforts for entertainment-driven programming, including ESPN Films, 30 for 30, Original Content series and projects and 30 for 30 Podcasts.
- Lead communications for The ESPYS, including responsibilities for publicity, red carpet and more.
- Serve as communications point person for ESPN’s coverage of tennis, including U.S. Open, Wimbledon and Australian Open.
- Develop and execute detailed publicity campaigns for a variety of platforms including but not limited to: ESPN Films projects such as 30 for 30 documentaries, 30 for 30 Podcasts, ESPN Original Content, the annual ESPYS, and various other projects such as film festivals.
- Identify and create story angles, pitch them to various media outlets, and generate publicity results.
- Plan and execute red carpet events with high-profile talent, athletes and celebrities.
- Develop comprehensive publicity plans and year-round strategic communications efforts in support of ESPN’s tennis coverage, including working with on-air commentators, production and programming staff, external event partners and outside tennis, sports business and entertainment media.
- Work closely with senior executives on media interviews, PR planning and issue management.
- Write and edit press releases and other PR documents.
- Manage issues, strategize and create external messaging for major announcements and work with external contacts to maximize PR.
- Embrace new tools (such as AI) and approaches to serve as a 360 communicator, serving both internal and external audiences. Generate story ideas and multimedia assets to creatively engage a variety of audiences online. This includes creating regular new material for MyDisneyToday (internal employee site) and ESPN Front Row, the company’s outward-facing corporate blog.
- Contribute to overall ESPN communications dept planning and direction.
- Serve as key contact for national and local media as well as company spokesperson, when appropriate.
- Manage external PR firms as needed.
- Serve on an as-needed basis for various ESPN Communications Dept events/needs.
- Travel to and represent ESPN at various events, premieres, and conferences.
- Respond to media requests for information and interviews.
- Assist with various department initiatives and projects as assigned.
Qualifications
- A minimum of 7-10 years of public relations/media relations experience.)
- Knowledge and experience in overseeing red carpets and celebrity-focused events
- Experience in film and television public relations is a must
- Excellent PR, communications and writing skills
- Results-oriented and experienced in media pitching across spectrum of media (TV, print, online, radio, magazines, trades)
- Demonstrated knowledge/understanding of men’s/women’s sports, entertainment and media
- Must have national and local media contacts across various types of press outlets
- Strategic and creative thinker
- Self-starter and positive personality
- Proficiency in social media: Twitter (now X), Facebook, Instagram, TikTok
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience with new technologies (such as AI)
- Knowledge and familiarity with ESPN business and general media/streaming landscape
- Ability to handle multiple tasks on deadline in fast-paced environment
Education:
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience (related to communications or journalism preferred)
The hiring range for this position in New York is $160,100.00 to $231,100.00 per year. The base pay actually offered will take into account internal equity and also may vary depending on the candidate’s geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors. A bonus and/or long-term incentive units may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to the full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the level and position offered.
About 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. Every day we’re doing things that no one has done, all in a dynamic culture where we defy odds and continuously outdo ourselves. When you have the latest technology, game-changing ideas and world-class talent on your team, every day is extraordinary.
About The Walt Disney Company:
The Walt Disney Company, together with its subsidiaries and affiliates, is a leading diversified international family entertainment and media enterprise that includes three core business segments: Disney Entertainment, ESPN, and Disney Experiences. From humble beginnings as a cartoon studio in the 1920s to its preeminent name in the entertainment industry today, Disney proudly continues its legacy of creating world-class stories and experiences for every member of the family. Disney’s stories, characters and experiences reach consumers and guests from every corner of the globe. With operations in more than 40 countries, our employees and cast members work together to create entertainment experiences that are both universally and locally cherished.
This position is with ESPN, Inc, which is part of a business we call ESPN.
ESPN, Inc is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, military or veteran status, medical condition, genetic information or disability, or any other basis prohibited by federal, state or local law. Disney champions a business environment where ideas and decisions from all people help us grow, innovate, create the best stories and be relevant in a constantly evolving world.