Women of color continue to make strides in the male-dominated world of pro sports, especially when it comes to high profile leadership positions.
Jocelyn Moore was named the NFL’s Executive Vice President of Communications and Public Affairs this week. Moore formerly served as the NFL’s Senior Vice President of Public Policy and Government Affairs in Washington, D.C. and her promotion will base her in the league’s headquarters in New York. She will report directly to Maryann Turcke, the NFL’s Chief Operating Officer.
In her new role, Moore will oversee the Communications, Social Responsibility, and Government Affairs areas, according to NFLcommunications.com. The NFL took their time looking for his replacement, a decision of great import, and on Tuesday named Jocelyn Moore as Lockharts successor. This is a historical hire for the NFL. Not only is Moore their first female PR chief, but also the first African-American to fill this prominent role.
“Jocelyn has a proven track record of developing effective communication strategies in a variety of dynamic and challenging environments,” said Turcke. “Jocelyn brings a perspective and passion for communicating to our fans and other stakeholders that will strengthen our voice and put the focus on our game.”
PR & News Daily on Twitter
NFL Hires Jocelyn Moore to Replace Lockhart As PR Chief https://t.co/g7gMv76tEr
Moore’s opportunity comes at a desperate and tumultuous time for the NFL as its approval rating reached record lows over the past few seasons. The NFL received some terrible PR during Lockharts run, in large part due to the anthem protest movement. Some owners like Jerry Jones (Cowboys) and Daniel Snyder (Redskins) believe Lockhart, a former Bill Clinton aide, made things worse by going after President Donald J. Trump, a harsh critic of anthem kneeling.
Moore joined the NFL in 2016 and led the league’s public policy and legislative agenda and coordinated closely with NFL clubs on local legislative and regulatory issues. Moore strengthened the league’s positioning both in Congress and with external advocacy organizations leading numerous initiatives, including strategic engagement around player health and safety, tax reform, trade, and telecommunications.
O’Dwyer’s PR News on Twitter
People on the move: NFL passes executive VP-comms. post to Jocelyn Moore… @UproarPRagency snatches Abernathy MacGregor’s Christina Pantin… Randi Rahm Atelier, couture house, names Alan Diamond PR director https://t.co/emeeaF0C84
Prior to joining the NFL, the two-time graduate of the University of Florida was a Managing Director in The Glover Park Group’s Government Affairs Division and co-led the firm’s Health & Wellness practice. Before GPG, Moore had a 15-year career in the United States Senate, including roles as Deputy Staff Director of the Senate Finance Committee, Deputy Chief of Staff and Policy Director for Senator Ron Wyden, and Legislative Director for Senator John D. Rockefeller IV.
Shes certainly bringing tremendous qualifications, experience, youth and some #blackgirlmagic to the NFL mix.
