Executive Associate Athletic Director Director of Athletic Development

The client is seeking an Executive Associate Athletic Director/Director of Athletic Development to lead the client’s athletic fundraising program during a period of institutional momentum and competitive growth. The role will help advance Division I athletics priorities by supporting facilities, strengthening the student-athlete experience, expanding engagement with alumni, families, and fans, and contributing to sustained competitive success. The Director will be energized by this stage of development and committed to ensuring athletic fundraising aligns with the client’s broader ambitions. Reporting to the Vice President for University Advancement, with a dotted-line relationship to the Director of Athletics, the Director will join the advancement team and lead comprehensive fundraising and engagement strategies across annual, major, capital, and planned giving. As the lead major and principal gift officer for Athletics, the Director will manage a portfolio of top prospects, build partnerships with coaches and university leaders, and inspire philanthropic support for athletic priorities. The Director will collaborate across University Advancement and serve on senior leadership teams for both University Advancement and Athletics, overseeing two full-time staff members and a graduate assistant. The role requires a bachelor’s degree and at least seven years of progressively responsible fundraising experience, including demonstrated success securing major and principal gifts. Experience is expected in athletic fundraising or a related area, annual giving programs, and at least three years of staff management. A master’s degree is preferred, as is experience working within a comprehensive campaign and a complex higher education environment. The Director must demonstrate strategic leadership, strong communication and interpersonal skills, sound judgment and discretion, and the ability to manage multiple priorities while coordinating donor and prospect strategies across athletics and advancement. Familiarity with fundraising databases, moves management, and data-informed fundraising practices is expected.