Assistant Director of Development - Athletics

The Assistant Director of Development is instrumental in advancing the mission of VCU Athletics by supporting the growth of the RAM Athletic Fund and increasing donor engagement. Reporting to the Sr. Associate AD for Development, the role will create and execute communications, events, and outreach initiatives that identify, cultivate, steward and engage donors, alumni and stakeholders who support the achievement of VCU student-athletes. The Assistant Director assists in developing donor communications, such as newsletters, web content, impact reports, and event invitations, and coordinates and manages special events such as donor receptions, game-day hospitality, and recognition ceremonies. An important aspect of the position is stewarding and developing relationships with donors and stakeholders through regular contact and one-on-one stewardship. In addition, the Assistant Director of Development provides operations and administration assistance in ensuring that development work is efficiently monitored, assessed, and rolled out in collaboration with the Athletic Development team so that strategies are aligned with fundraising objectives as well as providing a better donor experience.

Typical Duties

• Develop and implement effective communication strategies;
• Assist in developing the annual fund for the Department of Athletics including all restricted and unrestricted giving to the RAM Athletic Fund;
• Manage a hand-selected portfolio of donors that are key supporters to the RAM Athletic Fund and have the capacity to give at the $1,000+ gift level;
• Develop stewardship plans to engage and grow donors and donor base;
• Plan and manage all special events for the department to increase donor base;
• Assist with management and oversight of RAM Athletic Fund Board;
• Manage gift processing;
• Organize logistics and staffing plan to manage gameday donor related hospitality engagement;
• Manage 2-3 Graduate Assistants each academic year;
• Representation at numerous external functions, home and away athletic contests, donor trips, and university functions as needed;
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

• Graduate degree in communications, marketing, or related field or an equivalent combination of knowledge, skills and experience;
• Two or more years of successful experience in higher education development office administration, preferably in the area of annual giving, stewardship and alumni relations.