Organization: New York Islanders

Position Title: Vice President, Content & Game Presentation

Reports to: Chief Operating Officer

Location: Floral Park, NY (In-office 2-3 days per week + games)

Search Contact: Prodigy Search

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BACKGROUND

The New York Islanders Hockey Club is one of the most iconic franchises in professional sports, with a deeply passionate and loyal fan base that is second to none. Built on a Dynasty in the 1980’s with four straight Stanley Cup Championships and 19 consecutive playoff series wins, our history has defined a legacy that remains untouched in professional sports. That legacy inspires us to leave our mark in the sports, entertainment, and cultural landscape.

In 2021, the New York Islanders moved to our new permanent home, UBS Arena. This state-of-the-art venue, which was built for hockey and made for music, is nestled within the historic Belmont Park – a storied landmark of New York. UBS Arena features best in class facilities and amenities, including premium suites, clubs, and lounges that offer boutique hospitality to elevate the guest experience. UBS Arena is part of a larger redevelopment project at Belmont Park, which aims to transform the area into a vibrant entertainment destination with the opening of Belmont Park Village in 2024 and the new Belmont Park Racetrack in 2026.

SUMMARY

The New York Islanders Hockey Club is seeking a dynamic and visionary leader for the Vice President, Content and Game Presentation role. This pivotal position will oversee several essential departments, including Game Presentation, Video Production, Motion Design, Event Operations, Audio-Visual Broadcast, and the Radio Broadcast team. The ideal candidate will play a crucial role in enhancing the overall fan experience, maximizing revenue generation, and ensuring the flawless execution of all media and entertainment initiatives while leading the teams at all games, team events, and select UBS Arena events.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Business Planning and Financial Oversight:

• Lead the business planning and budgeting processes for all media and entertainment initiatives, ensuring alignment with organizational goals
• Diligently monitor financial budgets to ensure responsible fiscal management and compliance with established guidelines
• Develop and establish systems and processes that enhance creative output while also streamlining operational workflows
• Identify the right vendors that enhance growth and functionality in all areas managed in this role

Management and Development of Teams:

• Offer strategic guidance to the leaders of each core group, promoting a collaborative environment that inspires innovation and creativity
• Guide and develop team leaders, enhancing their skills and promoting collaboration among departments to achieve common goals while leveraging resources and talents for greater impact
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver a cohesive brand experience and support overarching business objectives, including revenue generation.

Leadership of the Game Presentation Team

• Create and execute a creative vision for game entertainment that aligns with the brand’s core values and objectives
• Drive brand storytelling through engaging content that connects with fans
• Develop captivating content and entertainment experiences that successfully boost partnership revenues and improve ticket sales
• Cultivate brand loyalty by providing exceptional experiences during events that connect with attendees
• Stay at the forefront of technological advancements and emerging trends that can enhance both entertainment value and operational efficiencies
• Incorporate theatrical elements into game presentation to enhance the event experience and engage the audience
• Establish and promote best practices in game presentation to set the standard for excellence
• Act as the primary point of contact for all home games

Strategic Oversight of the Video Production Team:

• Drive the overarching vision for content production that aligns seamlessly with brand initiatives, exploring opportunities for both long- and short-form series across various platforms
• Act as the executive approver for all content, ensuring quality and relevance are maintained before any material is broadcast
• Work effectively with other departments to identify and optimize revenue opportunities through creative content strategies
• Concentrate on crafting brand storytelling through compelling video content that engages and informs fans

Management of the Motion Design Team:

• Lead the motion design team in creating engaging content for various displays, including out-of-home signage, IPTV, video boards, LED displays, ice projection, and digital/social platforms
• Ensure the creation of high-quality graphics and videos for game presentation, video production, and special events at the arena

Oversight of the Audio-Visual Broadcast Team:

• Oversee technical engineers tasked with ensuring all equipment is operational for events while adhering to maintenance schedules and protocols
• Oversee the group budget, carefully monitor expenditures, and negotiate maintenance contracts with technology partners and suppliers
• Establish efficient technology workflows and maintain strong communication systems to encourage collaboration and success across departments

Management of Radio Broadcast Operations:

• Oversee the operations and staff involved in radio broadcasts, ensuring high-quality production while fostering engaging programming ideas that resonate with the audience

Liaison Responsibilities:

• Serve as a key liaison with the NHL and broadcast rights holders, ensuring alignment and collaboration on content and media strategies
• Collaborate directly with our Regional Sports Network (RSN) on content creation and enhance the fan experience to maximize exposure and engagement

Special Projects and Events Leadership:

• Lead special projects and events that align with the organization's entertainment needs, emphasizing structure, scripting, talent management, content creation, and theatrical elements to enhance the overall experience

QUALIFICATIONS

• A proven track record in a senior leadership role within the sports and entertainment industry, particularly in media and event management
• Extensive experience in directing live event at a major sports and entertainment venue, with a proven track record of enhancing attendee satisfaction and operational efficiency
• A comprehensive understanding of broadcast production systems and the technical workflows necessary for effective execution in a top-tier arena
• Exceptional project management capabilities, with a talent for balancing multiple priorities and meeting critical deadlines
• Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills, with a demonstrated ability to lead, inspire, and motivate teams
• Awareness of the latest technologies and trends shaping the media and entertainment landscape

CORE COMPETENCIES

• Strategic Vision and Effective Execution
• Financial Acumen with Budget Management Expertise
• Leadership and Team Development Skills
• Creative Problem-Solving Abilities
• Collaboration and Relationship Building Proficiency
• Technological Savvy and Innovation-Driven Mindset

The New York Islanders are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our organization. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.

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CONTACT INFORMATION

Founded in 2007, Prodigy Search, located in the New York City suburb of Freehold, NJ, boasts over 80 years of experience in the sports and entertainment business. As a renowned nationwide leader in senior-level executive search, Prodigy Search has honed its business principles and expertise, establishing itself as one of the largest boutique recruiting agencies in North America. Simply, Prodigy Search is Where the Best Brands Come for the Best Talent..

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