Basketball Development Lead - NBA Nigeria at The National Basketball Association (NBA)

Position Summary

• This position is responsible for developing, managing and executing Basketball Operations initiatives, from youth development to elite, in Nigeria. This role requires experience in basketball operations, a high level of knowledge of the international basketball landscape, and the ability to foster and maintain relationships with internal and external stakeholders. The position will report to the Head of NBA Nigeria with a dotted line report to the Head of Basketball Operations – NBA Africa.

Major Responsibilities

• The candidate will lead, oversee, manage, and implement the following key functions for NBA Nigeria Basketball Operations.
• Collaborate with NBA Africa Basketball Operations team and NBA International Basketball Operations team to design, develop and implement the strategic course for the NBA’s Basketball Development programs in Nigeria.
• Provide basketball expertise to NBA Nigeria regarding basketball development, rules and regulations, competitive matters, basketball trends.
• Oversee NBA Nigeria Basketball Operations budget, scheduling and staffing.
• Support NBA Africa and Nigeria’s New Business Development and Marketing Partnerships departments in designing and delivering basketball programming that supports business growth in the region.
• Lead the Jr. NBA youth development initiatives (live and digital formats) including management of the partner relationships and focus on content delivery.
• Manage the NBA Basketball School program in Nigeria ensuring quality control and compliance and support the growth of the program in the country.
• Lead and guide other basketball initiatives in Nigeria such as coaching and referees’ development programs.
• Manage the relationships with different external agencies and vendors helping to operate all the basketball programs.
• Collaborate with NBA Africa Basketball Operations team and NBA International Basketball Operations Elite team regarding elite basketball strategy and programs.
• Support the basketball operation and execution of the NBA/FIBA Basketball Without Borders Africa camp (when it is held in Nigeria) leveraging relationships with National Federation including camp location selection and venue confirmation.
• Work closely with Basketball Operations Leads in other NBA regional offices to maximize growth and global best practices.
• Lead, foster and enhance key day-to-day relationships with the National Basketball Federation, Basketball clubs, government, local basketball community and other key basketball stakeholders

Required Skills/Knowledge

• Passion for basketball.
• Extensive knowledge of the global basketball landscape.
• Global thinker and operator – appreciative of and well-versed in other cultures and business practices.
• Strong project management skills, with a demonstrated ability to effectively manage multiple on-going projects.
• Demonstrated computer proficiency (Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and ability to learn new computer programs.
• Excellent verbal, written, communication and presentation skills.
• Ability to work well within a team environment.
• Fluency in English required, French and/or Arabis a plus.
• Ability to work effectively in a multinational matrix organization and manage complex projects.
• Detail-oriented, organized and able to work autonomously.
• In depth knowledge of the game of basketball, including rules and regulations, officiating, scheduling, players, coaches, and teams.
• Ability to travel extensively across Africa.

Experience Required

• A minimum of 5 years of experience with basketball operations (coaching, talent evaluation, on-court programming etc.).
• High-level basketball coaching experience preferred.
• Experience with running basketball practices, clinics, and camps.
• A successful track record of developing, enhancing and maintaining strong working relationships with both internal and external clients.
• Demonstrated ability to create and manage business plans and budgets.

Educational Background Required

• Bachelor degree required, advanced degree preferred