Job Summary: We are seeking a passionate and driven Senior Director, Talent Recruitment & Development to spearhead our efforts in identifying, recruiting, nurturing, and cultivating the potential of Talent across various sports disciplines. This role will be pivotal in Talent recruitment and designing and implementing comprehensive talent development programs aimed at maximizing the performance and potential of our Talent. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of sports development principles, strong leadership skills, and a proven track record of success in talent identification and talent recruitment. This position can be located in Bristol, CT, New York, NY, or Los Angeles, CA.
Responsibilities: Proactively recruit non-ESPN Talent, identify current and future needs, and negotiate and cast for open roles and/or potential future opportunities. Implement competitive strategies for recruiting and retention of diverse Talent across all sports platforms. Utilize scouting networks, talent identification skills and experience, and grassroots initiatives to identify promising Talent with high potential across different age groups and sports disciplines. Forge strategic partnerships with sports organizations, clubs, schools, and community groups to expand the reach and impact of talent recruitment and development programs. Design and develop comprehensive talent development programs tailored to the specific needs and goals of Talent, focusing on technical skill development, physical conditioning, mental resilience, and character-building. Create structured curriculum frameworks and training modules that align with best practices in sports development and coaching methodologies. Provide guidance, mentorship, and support to Talent involved in development programs in collaboration with production stakeholders, helping them enhance their skills and effectiveness. Implement systems for monitoring and evaluating Talent performance, progression, and adherence to program objectives, using data-driven insights to inform program adjustments and improvements. Organize Talent camps, training workshops, and showcase events to provide Talent with opportunities to demonstrate their skills and abilities. Establish relationship with content leaders to allow you to anticipate Talent needs, leading to proactive recruitment and pipeline build of key Talent. Maintain sensitive and confidential information in strict confidence. Ensure a Talent experience that is commensurate with the experience you would expect from ESPN. Qualifications: A minimum of 10 years of sports industry experience A minimum of 8 years of on-air Talent recruitment and development experience A minimum of 4 years of experience in a leadership or management role Bachelor's degree in Sports Management, Communications, Broadcast Journalism, or a related field Proven experience in sports talent identification, development, and program management, preferably in a leadership role. Strong knowledge of sports development principles and Talent performance optimization strategies. Excellent communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate Talent and stakeholders. Analytical mindset, with the ability to interpret data, performance metrics, and qualitative feedback to drive decision-making and program improvements. Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and build effective relationships with diverse stakeholders. Proficiency in project management, budgeting, and resources allocation. Flexibility to work irregular hours, including evenings and weekends, to accommodate training sessions, events, and competitions. Passion for sports and a commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive sporting culture. Required Education: Bachelor's degree Preferred Education: Master's degree #ESPNMedia
The hiring range for this position in Los Angeles is $172,300 to $199,430 per year and in New York is $180,500 to $209,000 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.
