Director of Annual Giving, Athletics

Overview

The Director of Annual Giving will report to the Associate Athletic Director for Development and is responsible for annual fundraising, communication, events, and organizational efforts for designated athletic associations supporting a dynamic fundraising operation of Yale’s 35 varsity teams. The Director of Annual Giving will be instrumental in cultivating meaningful relationships with alumni, parents, and friends of Yale Athletics. Responsibilities include overseeing volunteer initiatives, development/event(s) communications, meeting annual fundraising goals, and delivering exceptional stewardship experiences that deepen donor commitment. Additionally, the Director plans and executes monthly, quarterly and annual messaging to engage Yale student-athlete alumni. This position’s portfolio will also include execution of sport-specific newsletters, implementation of regular reviews of giving dashboards and reporting on fundraising trends and areas of opportunity. Design, implement, and manage annual giving strategies and initiatives for Yale Athletics, including direct mail, email, digital outreach, texting, ThankView, as well as association specific stewardship planning and implementation, and other areas as assigned. The Director of Annual Giving combines frontline fundraising, communications, relationship-building, and in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment and the ability to travel for meetings and special events, nights and weekends required.

Required Skills and Abilities

1. Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Outstanding organizational and interpersonal skills, including attention to detail.
2. Ability to handle a diverse portfolio and simultaneous tasks.
3. Highly motivated and energetic; ability to show initiative and work independently.
4. High level of quantitative skills; ability to analyze data and implement strategy.
5. Skilled in Microsoft suite and Google platform; ability to learn new software and data management products.

Principal Responsibilities

1. Organizes, plans, and oversees fundraising efforts for the University.
2. Recruits, trains, and organizes a network of alumni volunteers.
3. Develops, fosters, and maintains positive alumni relations.
4. Contributes in writing and producing alumni reports, newsletters, and other materials to inform alumni network,
5. Develops and implements financial solicitation programs; oversees a budget and gift crediting functions.
6. Initiates and advises the best course of action for financial solicitation programs, such as conducting a written campaign or organizing a phonathon.
7. Advises on the timely communication, organization of campaigns and crediting of gifts.
8. May perform other duties as assigned.

Required Education and Experience

Bachelor’s degree. Three years of related experience in a fund-raising capacity or an equivalent combination of education and experience.