Esports Director

Salary/Position Classification

• $70,000+ Annual, Dependent on experience, Exempt
• 40 hours per week
• This position will work onsite at UND Grand Forks, ND campus.

Purpose of Position

The Esports Director provides strategic leadership and operational oversight for the university’s esports program, ensuring alignment with institutional goals related to student engagement, recruitment, and academic success. This position is responsible for developing and managing competitive teams, coordinating events and league participation, and overseeing staff and facility operations. The role functions within the work unit as the primary driver of program growth and external visibility, while fostering a structured, inclusive environment that supports student development and enhances the university’s presence in collegiate esports.

Duties & Responsibilities

Provide strategic leadership and overall management of the university esports program, including vision setting, program growth, and alignment with institutional priorities.

• Develop and execute short- and long-term strategic plans for esports
• Oversee program operations
• Represent the program to campus leadership and external stakeholders
• Ensure consistent and effective operation of the esports program
• Guide and maintain program structure and operational consistency

Lead student recruitment, retention, and engagement efforts to grow a competitive and diverse esports program.

• Develop and implement recruitment strategies targeting prospective students
• Coordinate outreach with admissions, marketing, and high school partners
• Evaluate and recruit student-athletes across multiple titles
• Support retention initiatives including academic and community engagement
• Monitor student eligibility and participation requirements

Coordinate and supervise student employees, interns, and program staff supporting esports operations.

• Hire, train, and evaluate student workers and interns
• Assign and oversee roles such as broadcasting, event support, and facility operations
• Develop leadership opportunities for students within the program
• Identify and contract outside professional coaches for individual titles.
• Ensure proper scheduling, payroll coordination, and performance management • Foster a positive and inclusive team environment

Plan and execute large-scale esports events, tournaments, and campus engagement activities, including coordinating and chaperoning team travel for off-site competitions.

• Organize and manage tournaments, invitationals, and showcase events
• Plan and manage team travel for off-site LAN events and competitions against other institutions
• Serve as chaperone for student travel, ensuring compliance with university policies and student safety standards
• Arrange transportation, lodging, and itineraries for traveling teams
• Manage venue setup, technology needs, and vendor relationships for hosted events
• Collaborate with campus partners for event promotion and execution
• Oversee event staffing, scheduling, and on-site operations
• Evaluate event success and implement improvements

Manage participation in and coordination with collegiate esports leagues and conferences.

• Register teams and maintain compliance with league requirements
• Coordinate match schedules, communications, and reporting
• Ensure adherence to league rules, eligibility, and competitive standards
• Build relationships with league administrators and peer institutions
• Monitor competitive performance and recommend adjustments

Oversee esports facility operations, technology, and equipment management.

• Maintain gaming equipment, hardware, and software environments
• Coordinate upgrades, repairs, and lifecycle planning
• Ensure facility scheduling, access control, and usage policies
• Support practice and competition needs for all teams
• Collaborate with IT and facilities staff 

Develop partnerships and promote the esports program through marketing, sponsorships, and community engagement.

• Collaborate with marketing on branding and digital content strategy
• Engage external partners, sponsors, and donors
• Support social media and streaming initiatives
• Represent the program at community and industry events 

Required Competencies

• Demonstrated leadership and team management skills, including the ability to supervise, mentor, and develop staff and student employees
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively engage diverse audiences
• Ability to plan, organize, and execute multiple projects and events simultaneously
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to exercise sound judgment, discretion, and independent decision-making
• Knowledge of or ability to quickly learn esports ecosystems, technologies, and competitive structures
• Commitment to fostering an inclusive and student-centered environment

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree business, education, technology, esports, finance, management, or related educational/business field.
• 3 years of experience in the business, education, or esports field(s).
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office.
• Successful completion of a Criminal History Background Check

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the US and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire. This position does not support visa sponsorship for continued employment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Masters in education, business, esports, or related field.
• Experience with the national esports landscape.
• Experience with management student employees, employees, and/or groups.