Director of Athletics and Recreation Development

Job Description

Department: Major and Planned Giving

Pay Rate Type: Salary

Job Summary:

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Colby College (Waterville, Maine), one of the nation’s top liberal arts colleges, seeks an inspirational and highly motivated Director of Athletics and Recreation Development to bring the athletics and recreation fundraising program to the next level of excellence, building on a strong foundation of annual, endowment, and capital gift performance to become a top 10 program in the Division III Learfield Director’s Cup Standings.

Reporting to the Assistant Vice President of Major and Planned Giving and working in close collaboration with the Harold Alfond Director of Athletics, the Director of Athletics and Recreation Development will drive fundraising strategy for the program and build alumni, parent, and volunteer enthusiasm for an athletics program that has climbed from 133rd in 2019 to most recently 33rd in the Learfield Cup rankings.

The Director will manage two staff members: a leadership annual gift officer and an assistant director of athletics fundraising.

• At least 7 years of experience in advancement (or a closely related field) is required.
• A bachelor’s degree is required.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of growing principal, major, leadership, and annual gift fundraising for athletics and recreation.
• Establish revenue projections for each team and execute the fundraising strategy.
• Lead prospect managers in solicitations and drive the total pipeline for Athletics fundraising.
• Manage, attend, and network at several athletics-oriented and team-based events.
• Lead and elevate the management of 20+ philanthropic varsity boards.
• Oversee marketing and communication strategies.
• Proactively manage a portfolio of high-level prospects and donors.
• Oversee and maintain a robust stewardship program.

Required Qualifications

• At least 7 years of experience in advancement (or a closely related field), with proven experience managing a portfolio, closing major and leadership gifts, and managing staff.
• Flexibility to travel and work evenings or weekends.
• A bachelor’s degree is required.
• Valid driver’s license required and must meet the College’s Fleet Safety Policy requirements.