Director, Media Relations

Company Description

VERSANT is a leading force in news, sports and entertainment - home to iconic and trusted brands that inspire, inform, and delight audiences. Our unique combination of content, technology and services enriches the cultural fabric, igniting passions, sparking conversations, and connecting people to what they love most.

As an independent, publicly traded company, VERSANT brings together powerhouse cable networks - including USA Network, CNBC, MS NOW (formerly MSNBC), Oxygen, E!, SYFY, and Golf Channel - with dynamic digital and direct-to-consumer brands such as Fandango, Rotten Tomatoes, GolfNow, GolfPass, and SportsEngine. Together, these businesses reflect our commitment to delivering exceptional experiences across every screen and service.

VERSANT is an industry-changing media company fueled by innovation and an entrepreneurial spirit. With a strong foundation and a forward-looking vision, VERSANT empowers creativity, embraces change, and drives connection in an ever-evolving world.

Job Description

Versant is seeking a strategic and seasoned Director of Media Relations to join the Corporate Communications team. Reporting to the Vice President, Media Relations, this role will play a central role in helping shape how Versant’s strategy, priorities, and growth are represented across business, financial, and industry media.

The Director will lead proactive media engagement while also playing a key role in day-to-day media relations. The position will drive proactive storytelling, and help manage media engagement around major company developments, including earnings, partnerships, and strategic initiatives.

The Director will work closely with the VP, Media Relations and cross functional teams across the company to develop compelling narratives, secure meaningful coverage, and position Versant as a leading voice in the evolving media landscape.

Responsibilities:

• Build and maintain strong relationships with top tier reporters, editors and influencers to proactively generate meaningful coverage of Versant’s strategy, growth, and industry leadership.
• Partner closely with the VP, Media Relations to help communicate Versant’s strategy and priorities across major announcements, strategic initiatives, and industry developments.
• Work cross functionally with teams across the company including ad sales, distribution, partnerships, investor relations, and other business units to identify compelling storylines and support communications around key initiatives.
• Drive media engagement around major corporate moments including quarterly earnings, financial milestones, partnerships, and other key company developments.
• Provide strategic media counsel and preparation for executives participating in interviews, public appearances, and high-profile announcements.
• Identify and secure opportunities to elevate executive visibility through interviews, thought leadership placements, and industry events.
• Draft and oversee high quality communications materials including press releases, statements, executive talking points, briefing documents, and media Q&As.
• Monitor media coverage, analyst commentary, and industry trends to identify opportunities and inform messaging.
• Support rapid response and issues management efforts, ensuring clear and coordinated communications during time sensitive or high-profile situations.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience in media relations, corporate communications, or strategic communications, preferably within a media, entertainment, or technology environment.
• Established relationships with reporters across top tier business, financial, and media industry outlets, with a demonstrated ability to secure meaningful, high impact coverage.
• Exceptional writing and messaging skills, with experience developing press releases, executive talking points, briefing materials, and other media materials that translate complex business developments into clear and compelling narratives.
• Experience leading proactive earned media strategies and supporting communications around major announcements, partnerships, or corporate milestones.
• Strong understanding of the media, entertainment, and technology landscape, including key industry trends and the evolving media ecosystem.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively across cross functional teams and navigate complex organizations to advance communications priorities.
• Strong judgment and the ability to operate effectively in fast paced environments while managing sensitive or high visibility issues.

Desired Characteristics:

• Proactive, organized, and resourceful with excellent judgment.
• Strategic thinker with an understanding of the broader media