Director of Development, Athletics

Job Description The USF Department of Intercollegiate Athletics sponsors a diverse and nationally competitive Division I athletic program. The program focuses on the progress of student‑athletes toward graduation, their health, fitness and emotional development, and fostering a sense of pride for the campus community and the greater Tampa Bay area. The Director of Development is a key driver of philanthropic efforts, managing a portfolio of high‑capacity donors and securing major and leadership gifts ($25,000+). This role drives revenue, advances strategic donor relationships, and leverages data and AI to enhance fundraising performance and decision‑making. Performance Metrics Donor engagement (meetings and interactions) Pipeline growth and movement Proposal volume and quality Effective use of data and AI tools Achievement of annual fundraising goal Responsibilities Portfolio Management & Engagement Manage and advance major gift prospects through all stages of the donor lifecycle. Conduct 10–14 donor meetings and 20–25 meaningful interactions monthly. Complete 3–5 qualification meetings per month to grow the pipeline. Fundraising & Proposal Strategy Develop and close 8–15 major gift proposals annually. Structure multi‑year and leadership‑level gifts aligned with Athletics priorities. Achieve an assigned annual fundraising goal. Strategic Collaboration Partner across Athletics and campus to maximize donor impact. Lead and contribute to 3–4 collaborative proposals annually. Support team strategy. AI, Data & Innovation Utilize CRM, analytics, and AI tools to identify prospects and guide strategy. Apply data‑driven insights to improve targeting, forecasting, and donor engagement. Embrace innovative approaches to enhance efficiency and personalization. Pipeline & Performance Management Build and manage a strong, forward‑looking donor pipeline. Maintain accurate CRM activity, strategy, and reporting. Track performance against activity, proposal, and revenue goals. Qualifications Minimum: Bachelor's degree and 5 years of experience related to development or other appropriate professional experience. Preferred Qualifications Proven success securing major gifts or comparable outcomes. Strong communication, strategic thinking, and organizational skills. Degree equivalency clause: four years of direct experience for a bachelor's degree. Compliance with Senate Bill 1310 regarding employment eligibility and consideration of work experience for postsecondary requirements. Minimum qualifications that require a high school diploma are exempt from SB 1310. Core Competencies Strategic, results‑driven, and accountable. Exceptional relationship builder. Data‑informed and forward‑thinking. Collaborative and team‑oriented. Benefits Our first‑class benefits package includes medical, dental and life insurance plans, retirement plan options, employee and dependent tuition programs, generous leave, and hundreds of employee perks and discounts. Compliance and Federal Notices This position may be subject to a Level 1 or Level 2 criminal background check. Applicants have rights under Federal Employment Laws. The University of South Florida is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on any characteristic protected by law. The University maintains programs for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities in accordance with all applicable federal and state laws. Equal Employment Opportunity The University of South Florida is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on any characteristic protected by law. The University maintains affirmative action programs for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities in accordance with all applicable federal and state laws. This job description does not constitute an employment contract. #J-18808-Ljbffr University of South Florida