Associate Director of Development - Athletics

Associate Director of Development - Athletics

The University of South Dakota Foundation & Alumni Association plays an instrumental role in supporting the University of South Dakota. The Associate Director of Development – Athletics helps support efforts and philanthropic initiatives within the Athletics Department. The successful candidate will assist in creating and implementing comprehensive fundraising strategies to enhance the financial stability and growth of USD Athletics programs.

This position will play an integral role in the overall success of the fundraising and engagement efforts. It will work in close collaboration with multiple teams across the organization to reach those goals.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Develop and execute strategic fundraising plans aligned with the goals and priorities of the University's Athletics Department. Collaborate with senior leadership to identify funding needs and opportunities for philanthropic support.
• Cultivate relationships with alumni, donors, and key stakeholders to secure major gifts and donations in support of Athletics programs, facilities, and student-athlete scholarships.
• Establish and maintain strong relationships with donors through regular communication, stewardship activities, and personalized engagement opportunities. Ensure donors feel valued, appreciated, and connected to the impact of their contributions.
• Conduct prospect research to identify new potential donors and funding opportunities. Build and manage a robust pipeline of prospective donors, strategically prioritizing cultivation and solicitation efforts.
• Assist with the leadership and execution of fundraising campaigns, including annual giving initiatives, capital campaigns, and special fundraising events. Collaborate with internal and external partners to maximize campaign effectiveness and reach fundraising goals.
• Foster a culture of collaboration and accountability within the Athletics Development team, through leadership and excellence. Work closely with Athletics staff, coaches, and university administrators to integrate fundraising efforts with broader departmental goals and initiatives.
• Work closely with University Athletics to ensure compliance with university policies, NCAA regulations, and fundraising best practices. Prepare regular progress reports, metrics, and analyses to track fundraising performance and inform decision-making.
• Be accountable for the input of pertinent prospect information into the donor database per the prospect management policy.

Required Skills and Abilities

• Excellent written, and verbal communication, and active listening skills with strong attention to detail.
• Excellent organizational and interpersonal skills, including the ability to manage multiple projects, meet deadlines and work in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to collaborate and motivate a team towards achieving common objectives.
• Proven track record of successfully securing philanthropic gifts and meeting fundraising goals.
• Knowledge of fundraising, gift acceptance policies, and general information affecting operations.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree preferred.
• Minimum of 3 years of progressive experience in fundraising, development, or related field, preferably in higher education or athletics.
• Knowledge of NCAA regulations and understanding of the role of athletics within a university setting.
• Proficiency in fundraising software, database management, and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Valid driver's license and safe driving record.

The University of South Dakota Foundation is an equal-opportunity employer. This position includes an excellent benefits package and a generous PTO policy. Interested applicants should submit a letter of interest and resume to Joe Hoose, Vice President of Talent Management, at careers@usdfoundation.org.

Salary Range: $50,000 to 60,000

The University of South Dakota Foundation is an equal opportunity employer. This position included an excellent benefits package and a generous PTO policy. Interested applicants should submit a letter of interest and resume to Joe Hoose, Executive Director of Talent Management, at careers@usdfoundation.org.