WHO WE ARE
FISU (Fédération Internationale du Sport Universitaire) – the International University Sports Federation – was founded in 1949 to connect sport and education within the global academic community. We empower students worldwide to pursue excellence in both mind and body.
In a rapidly changing world, the role of university sport is evolving. Expectations around wellbeing, inclusion, sustainability, innovation, and global connection are growing. FISU, as the global governing body for university sport, is responding to these challenges – working closely with universities, national members, continental and international partners.
FISU serves as the global platform for university sport at all levels through sport competitions and educational initiatives. Together with its members and continental organisations, FISU supports students, connects universities and leads cultural exchange. FISU fosters academic-athletic balance and promotes wellbeing, respect, excellence and inclusion for generations to come.
The Head of Communications leads FISU’s global communication strategy to strengthen the federation’s reputation, visibility, and stakeholder engagement worldwide. This role oversees corporate and institutional communications, media relations, and digital engagement, ensuring consistent messaging that reflects FISU’s mission to promote education through sport. The position works in close collaboration with Marketing Communications and all other Departments to ensure brand alignment and maximise communication impact.
RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES (included but not limited to)
Strategic Leadership
- Develop and execute FISU’s communication strategy in alignment with the global organisational strategy.
- Identify communication opportunities to enhance public understanding, stakeholder support, and institutional credibility.
- Ensure coherence, impact, and consistency across all communication channels and materials.
- Advise the Secretary General and Directors Board on strategic communication and reputation management.
Media Relations & Public Affairs
- Serve as the main point of contact for international and national media.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with journalists, broadcasters, and media partners.
- Act as or coordinate official spokespersons during key events and situations.
- Oversee press releases, briefings, and interviews for major FISU events.
- Manage crisis and issue communications in collaboration with senior leadership.
- Supervise publications, speeches, and storytelling initiatives to strengthen global awareness.
Digital Communications and Engagement (in close cooperation with Marketing Communications)
- Oversee FISU’s digital communication ecosystem, including website, newsletters, and social media platforms.
- Lead innovative digital campaigns that reflect the federation’s inclusive and forward-looking values.
- Use analytics and data-driven insights to improve engagement, reach, and effectiveness.
Stakeholder & Institutional Communications
- Maintain effective communication with National University Sports Federations (NUSFs), continental associations, and university partners.
- Ensure transparent and aligned internal communication across governance bodies and committees.
- Support external communication partnerships with international sports organisations and global institutions.
Team Leadership & Operations
- Manage and develop the Communications team to ensure strategic alignment and high performance.
- Coordinate with Marketing and all other departments for coherent messaging and branding.
- Oversee budget planning and ensure efficient resource allocation.
SKILLS, EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS
Required Qualifications
- PhD Master’s degree in Communication, Public Relations, Political Science or related field.
- Minimum 8–10 years in media, communications, including senior leadership roles, ideally in international sport, corporate, public affairs/public relations or global non-profit sectors.
- Proven experience in strategic communication planning, media relations, and crisis communication.
- Demonstrated success in developing impactful campaigns and managing complex stakeholder ecosystems.
- Strong strategic communication and storytelling skills, with a global and multicultural perspective.
- Excellent written and verbal communication abilities with attention to tone, clarity, and consistency.
- Leadership and team development experience, fostering collaboration across departments.
- Skilled in reputation management and media handling under high-pressure situations.
- Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret communication data and performance metrics.
- High emotional intelligence, adaptability, and sound judgement in sensitive matters.
- Strong understanding of international sports.
- Excellent writing, editing, and speaking skills in English; French proficiency is highly desirable.
Team Collaboration
- Ability to work effectively within a team environment.
- Collaboration with other administrative staff and departments.