Summary

Reporting to the Dean of Students and Vice President for Student Affairs, the Director of Athletics, Fitness, and Recreation provides vision, leadership, and oversight for a comprehensive NCAA Division III athletics and recreation program. The Director serves as a key campus leader and member of the Student Affairs senior leadership team, aligning athletics and recreation with the College’s academic mission, enrollment priorities, and community engagement goals.

This role encompasses varsity athletics, fitness and recreation programming, student well-being, and institutional engagement. The Director fosters strong relationships across campus and ensures a holistic student experience that supports competitive success, personal growth, and lifelong wellness.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

Provide strategic leadership and oversight for all athletics, fitness, and recreation programs
Ensure compliance with NCAA Division III and conference regulations and advise senior leadership on governance matters
Establish and communicate a clear vision aligned with Skidmore’s mission, values, and strategic priorities
Supervise and support coaches, staff, and student-athlete development initiatives
Lead hiring, performance evaluation, mentorship, and professional development for departmental staff
Foster an inclusive and high-performing environment that supports student-athlete success and leadership
Oversee recruitment strategies in collaboration with admissions and enrollment teams
Manage departmental operations, including budget oversight and resource allocation
Oversee athletics facilities, including the McCaffery-Wagman Tennis and Wellness Center and Williamson Center
Strengthen relationships with faculty to support integration of athletics and academics
Collaborate with campus partners across student affairs, advancement, admissions, financial aid, and facilities
Represent the College in NCAA and conference governance and external partnerships
Engage with alumni, donors, and community stakeholders to support program growth and advancement
Promote school spirit, institutional pride, and community engagement through athletics

Qualifications

Education: Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred

Experience: Minimum of five years of progressive leadership experience in collegiate athletics administration or a related field, including supervision, strategic planning, budget and facilities management, fundraising, and program oversight

Required Competencies and Skills

Comprehensive knowledge of intercollegiate athletics administration and NCAA Division III compliance
Strong understanding of student-athlete development and the integration of athletics within a liberal arts environment
Demonstrated leadership and team management experience, including staff supervision and development
Proven ability to manage budgets and optimize financial and human resources
Experience with strategic planning, program development, and assessment
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to engage diverse stakeholders
Collaborative leadership style with the ability to work across departments and constituencies
Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities
Understanding of recruitment and enrollment dynamics in a selective liberal arts college setting

Preferred Attributes

Ability to cultivate alumni engagement and philanthropic support through relationship-building and events
Experience leading fundraising initiatives and donor engagement efforts
Visible and engaged leadership presence within campus and broader community
Commitment to fostering mentorship, inclusion, and a positive team culture
Demonstrated ability to inspire and lead with creativity, empathy, and cultural competence

Additional Information

Reports to: Dean of Students and Vice President for Student Affairs
Operating budget responsibility: approximately $2.1M–$2.8M
Oversees 19 varsity sports, 80+ staff, and 425+ student-athletes

Application Requirements

To be considered, please submit your application through the link below: https://spelmanandjohnson.com/position/director-of-athletics-fitness-and-recreation/

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Director of Athletics, Fitness, and Recreation

Skidmore College

815 N Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866, USA

Summary

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Director of Athletics, Fitness, and Recreation

Skidmore College

815 N Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866, USA

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Director of Athletics, Fitness, and Recreation

Skidmore College

815 N Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866, USA

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This is a Preview Listing…

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