Associate Director, Design; Intercollegiate Athletics

Associate Director, Design (5371C)

Intercollegiate Athletics 86703

The Associate Director, Design is a member of the Athletics Department's Strawberry Creek Studios group and assists with the execution of visual assets and graphic design that support the Cal identity across various sports. Under the direction of the creative lead, this position captures the energy of live sporting events and produces content that aligns with the department's external strategy. The role requires a fast‑paced, solution‑oriented mindset to deliver storytelling across Cal Athletics digital platforms, marketing, and in‑venue video boards.

It includes direction on storytelling concepts, production of digital assets on tight timelines, use of emerging technologies such as AI, and daily supervision of student interns to scale content creation.

• Assist with the development of storytelling concepts based on directions from leadership.
• Help maintain content calendars that align with recruiting cycles and revenue goals.
• Support the end-to-end execution of visual assets, including graphic design, merchandise, and photography.
• Capture live event footage and assist in producing features for social and digital platforms.
• Use established templates and AI tools to create personalized digital content tailored for student‑athlete recruitment and program loyalty.
• Ensure all work stays within University brand guidelines.
• Assist in developing AI‑generated personalized digital content and templates to attract elite brands and elevate the Cal Athletics brand, supporting both traditional and new revenue streams.
• Takes a lead role in supervising the student intern workforce and mentors student staff on technical skills.
• Apply emerging technologies such as generative AI to scale content production and modernize studio workflows.
• Track project expenses and review content performance data to improve future assets and maintain quality control.

• Knowledge of communications, including strategic planning for various media venues and technical requirements.
• Ability to advise and consult with management to ensure delivery of desired messages to target audiences.
• Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Understanding of visual aspects of communications and brand development.
• Proficiency with Adobe Creative Cloud and experience in cinematic camera operation or willingness to learn.
• Ability to capture high‑speed sports action and produce content formatted for stadium video boards and social platforms.
• Experience creating digital content including video, photography, and motion graphics.
• Knowledge of digital performance metrics (engagement, reach, conversion) and ability to package and present data to management.
• Demonstrated ability to pitch “big picture” concepts to management.
• Skills in training and mentoring a student/intern workforce.
• Independent work ability while aligning with internal teams.
• Solution‑oriented mindset capable of adhering to brand guidelines without compromising quality.
• Willingness to learn and work with AI tools for automated workflows and creative brainstorming.
• Time and project management skills to establish priorities and meet competing deadlines.
• Strong collaboration skills to meet client objectives.
• Knowledge of the NCAA/Power 4 landscape, recruiting cycles, NIL trends, and student‑athlete retention drivers.

• Bachelor’s degree in a related area and/or equivalent experience/training (Required).

The budgeted annual salary range that the University reasonably expects to pay for this position is $83,000 – $90,000. This is an exempt, monthly‑paid, full‑time (40 hours/week) Staff:
Career position eligible for UC benefits.

The first review date for this job is June 22, 2026. Please apply on or before that date.

To apply, please submit your resume and cover letter.

Required to hold a valid driver’s license and maintain a driving record in accordance with local policies.

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.