Communications Specialist

Lids Sports Group is the largest licensed sports retailer in North America, selling fan and fashion-oriented headwear and apparel across the US and abroad. Operating out of Indianapolis, IN, our retail stores offer officially licensed headwear and apparel from collegiate and professional sports teams, plus top brands like Nike, New Era, Lululemon, and Mitchell & Ness. In addition to our wide assortment, we are the industry leader in on demand customization. We currently operate 1,300+ brick and mortar locations, including specialty concept stores for the NBA, NHL, Paris Saint-Germain, and the two largest MLB franchises, via our Yankees & Dodgers Clubhouse stores. Lids have built partnerships and collaborations with iconic global brands including Marvel/Disney, Playboy, Travis Scott’s Cactus Jack, and Post Malone, creating a community where fans, fashion, and culture collide. General Position Summary The Communications Specialist plays a critical role in ensuring clear, consistent, and brand-aligned messaging from corporate leadership to store-level teams. This position supports top-down communication strategies that drive operational alignment, employee engagement, and execution of business initiatives across all retail locations. Principle Duties and Responsibilities Strategic Message Development Craft clear, concise, and brand-aligned messages from corporate leadership to store-level employees. Translate executive initiatives into actionable, easy-to-understand communications for frontline teams. Use standardized templates and distribution lists to send mass communications to stores, DSMs, and regional leaders. Internal Communication Management Develop and distribute internal memos, newsletters, and updates to ensure consistent messaging across all retail locations. Maintain communication calendars and ensure timely delivery of key messages, especially around promotions, policy changes, and operational updates. Cross-Functional Collaboration Partner with operations, HR, marketing, and training teams to align messaging and ensure consistency across departments. Act as a liaison between the field and corporate office, gathering feedback and adjusting communication strategies accordingly. Collaborate closely with the internal French translator to ensure all communications meet Quebec language standards and are communicated in a timely manner. Content Creation and Editing Draft and edit content for internal platforms, including SOPs, training materials, and leadership updates. Ensure tone, clarity, and accuracy in all written communications. Additional Principal Duties and Responsibilities Field Communication Support Provide guidance on how to communicate sensitive or urgent issues (e.g., system outages, recalls, policy enforcement). Support store leaders in delivering consistent messaging to their teams. Feedback and Reporting Collect and analyze feedback from the field to improve communication effectiveness. Track open rates, engagement, and task completion metrics to measure communication impact. Professional Conduct Support and adhere to all company policies, procedures, and guidelines. Ability to work varying days and hours, based on business needs. Perform other duties and projects as assigned. Job Required Knowledge & Skills Associate degree in business or related field, plus two years relevant experience or equivalent combination of education and experience. A degree in Communications is an asset Proven ability to perform both independently with minimal supervision, as well as be a collaborative team player. Strong written and verbal communication skills Proficiency in Microsoft Suite and communication platforms (e.g., Teams, Outlook) Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment. Experience in retail operations or field communications is highly valued Strong interpersonal skills. Ability to thrive in a fast-paced work environment. Ability to operate a computer, as well as maneuver relative software programs. Sitting required for up to 100% of the daily work schedule. Viewing a computer screen and working on a keyboard for up to 100% of the daily work schedule. Ability and willingness to travel overnight for training and/or business meetings. What We Offer Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage effective on your first day of employment 401(k) plan with company match after 90 days, fully vested from day 1 100% employer-paid benefits, including short-term and long-term disability, life and AD&D insurance, and an Employee Assistance Program Competitive annual bonus opportunity Generous employee discount and exclusive perks Attractive paid time off package including holidays and floating holidays Flexible summer hours opportunity for eligible employees Ongoing career development and professional training, including discounted secondary education courses and certification reimbursement for select departments. A collaborative, innovative, and team-oriented work environment Early Wage Access options to provide added financial flexibility Physical Demands & Requirements Ability to constantly sit at a desk in a sedentary work environment Ability to frequently communicate clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing Ability to view electronic/written materials and adjust focus when needed (i.e. computers screens, documents, etc.) Ability to frequently use a computer, keyboard, mouse, and other standard office equipment. Ability to occasionally stand and walk throughout the office. Ability to occasionally lift or move items up to 15 pounds. Ability to occasionally present information to small and large groups, including team members and leadership. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. Onsite office work environment. Standard business hours from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., flexibility may be provided upon request. Reports To Sr Manager, Operations Employment Requirements Candidates must possess the experience, skills, physical abilities, and qualifications, with or without reasonable accommodation, to perform the essential duties of the role and must be able to meet all applicable employment standards. Being legally authorized to work in the United States is a pre-condition of employment for this position. Current or future employment-based visa sponsorship is not available for this role. Equal Employment Opportunity We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Notice to Applicants In connection with your application, we collect information that identifies, reasonably relates to, or describes you (“Personal Information”). The categories of Personal Information we collect include your name, email address, mailing address, other contact information, employment history, and educational history. We collect and use this information for human resources and business management purposes, including identifying and evaluating candidates for employment or future contract opportunities, and maintaining recruiting and hiring records. Additional information collected may include government-issued identification numbers, work authorization, emergency contact information, and other employment-related information. Need Accessibility Assistance? Applicants who require accessibility assistance to submit an employment application may email View email address on click.appcast.io . A member of our Talent team will respond as soon as reasonably possible. This email address is only for individuals seeking reasonable accommodation when applying for a career at Lids. #J-18808-Ljbffr