Communications Coordinator

AC Grand Rapids is an MLS NEXT Pro expansion club set to launch in 2027. As a new pillar in the West Michigan sports landscape, the club is committed to building a best-in-class sporting and entertainment organization that reflects the pride, passion, and values of the Grand Rapids community. We are building an innovative and community-driven club that wins on and off the pitch.

Position Summary

The Coordinator, Communications will support the day-to-day operations of the communications department. The Communications department serves as a key bridge for all departments in the front office, including sporting, marketing, sponsorship, creative, and social, to ensure communications are integrated into major initiatives, generate meaningful earned media coverage, and shape unified stories that spotlight our club and the wider cultural West Michigan landscape. This role will help develop strategic plans and identify new media opportunities related to AC Grand Rapids, manage day-to-day media operations, and support the club’s objectives of a positive reputation, increased brand awareness, and greater relevance in the local markets. An ideal candidate is a passionate communicator with a strong interest in sports, media relations, and fan engagement, and who wants to play a key part in helping share the AC Grand Rapids story with the West Michigan community and beyond.

Primary Responsibilities

• Support the VP of Integrated Marketing and Communications in building and executing media relations strategies for AC Grand Rapids and events at Amway Stadium.
• Draft and distribute press releases, media advisories, statements, and game notes, and help manage incoming media requests for players, coaches, and staff.
• Proactively pitch storylines to targeted local, regional, and national outlets across sports and non-sports media, and strengthen existing relationships while building new ones.
• Manage matchday media operations, from press box setup and credentialing to media availability coordination, postgame press conferences, and information distribution.
• Serve as communications support for all AC Grand Rapids home and away matches in MLS NEXT Pro, including travel to select road games.
• Write and edit match recaps, team news, and community features for the club website and app, and produce broadcast match notes and game day informational materials.
• Maintain and organize media and statistical archives, including the photo archive, press materials, and the annual media guide.
• Support communications