Job Description

The Senior Athletics Director for Development will lead and manage the development and fundraising efforts for the athletics department at Iona University. This role involves cultivating relationships with alumni, donors, and corporate partners, overseeing major gifts and capital campaigns, and ensuring the financial sustainability and growth of the athletics program in alignment with the university's mission and values.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Development and Fundraising Strategy

   - Develop and implement comprehensive fundraising strategies to support the athletics department's goals and initiatives.

   - Identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward a major gift portfolio of 50-75 individuals and foundations and up to 100 corporate sponsors.

   - Oversee annual giving campaigns, capital campaigns, and planned giving programs in collaboration with Annual Giving and Major Gift teams.

2. Donor Relations and Stewardship

   - Build and maintain strong relationships with alumni, donors, and key stakeholders.

   - Develop and execute stewardship plans to recognize and engage donors, ensuring their continued support and involvement.

   - Participate, with event planning colleagues, in the success of donor events, such as the annual golf outing, donor recognition events, and special receptions.

3. Collaboration and Coordination

   - Collaborate with university leadership, including the Senior Vice President for Advancement & External Affairs, Athletics Director, and other senior administrators, to align fundraising efforts with the university's strategic priorities.

   - Work closely with coaches, staff, and volunteers to identify fundraising opportunities and integrate development efforts across the athletics department.

   - Coordinate with marketing and communications teams to develop fundraising materials, campaigns, and donor communications.

4. Budget and Financial Oversight

   - Develop and manage the budget for the athletics development office, ensuring effective use of resources.

   - Monitor fundraising progress and provide regular reports to university leadership on development activities and outcomes.

   - Ensure compliance with university policies, NCAA regulations, and applicable laws related to fundraising and development.

5. Name. Image and Likeness

   - Develop and implement strategies to enhance the personal and professional development of athletes, focusing on maximizing opportunities under Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) regulations.

- Ensure compliance with NIL guidelines while fostering an environment where athletes can benefit from their personal brands.

- Serve as the primary liaison between athletes, external NIL partners, and the university.

6. Additional Duties

   - Stay current with industry trends and best practices in athletic fundraising and development.

   - Represent the athletics department at university events, conferences, and other external functions.

   - Perform other related duties as assigned to support the overall mission and goals of the athletics department and the university.