Manager- PR & Communications, ACG Sports

Role Overview

The Lead – PR & Communications will be responsible for building and protecting the reputation of the India Basketball League and its city franchises through strategic communications, media relations, executive visibility, and storytelling.

This role will drive earned media visibility, establish the league's credibility among stakeholders, and position the India Basketball League as India's most fan-centric and culturally integrated emerging sports property.

Key Responsibilities

Corporate & League Communications

• Develop and implement the overall communications strategy for the India Basketball League and its franchises.

• Create and manage communication plans around key league announcements, milestones, events, partnerships, and launches.

• Ensure consistency of messaging across all stakeholder groups.

Media Relations

• Build and maintain strong relationships with national, regional, sports, business, and entertainment media.

• Secure proactive media coverage across print, digital and emerging platforms.

• Develop media engagement opportunities throughout the year.

• Manage press conferences, media briefings, and media operations during league events.

Executive Communications

• Support leadership visibility through thought leadership opportunities, interviews, speaking engagements, and opinion pieces.

• Develop communication materials for league executives and spokespersons.

• Coordinate executive media interactions and briefing materials.

Storytelling & Narrative Development

• Develop compelling narratives around the league, High Performance Center at Bengaluru, franchises, players, coaches, partners, and community initiatives.

• Identify and amplify stories that strengthen fan engagement and league reputation.

• Work closely with content, league operations and brand marketing teams to ensure integrated storytelling.

Issues & Crisis Communications

• Develop communication protocols for issues management and crisis response.

• Monitor media sentiment and emerging risks.

• Support leadership in managing sensitive communications situations.

Agency & Stakeholder Management

• Manage external PR agency and communications partners.

• Coordinate communications efforts across franchises, sponsors, broadcasters, and governing bodies.

• Ensure alignment of messaging among key stakeholders.

Key Requirements

• Master's degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Marketing, or related field.
• 10–12 years of experience in public relations, corporate communications, media relations.
• Experience in sports, entertainment, media, consumer brands preferred.
• Strong media network across sports, business, lifestyle, and entertainment publications.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience managing high-profile announcements, launches, and stakeholder communications.
• Entrepreneurial spirit and ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong judgement and ability to manage sensitive issues effectively.
• Passion for sports and storytelling preferred.