"Director of Athletics & Recreation"

Position Summary

Rutgers University–Newark seeks a dynamic and visionary leader to serve as its Director of Athletics & Recreation. Reporting to the Chancellor, the Director of Athletics & Recreation provides strategic leadership, operational oversight, and fiscal management for Rutgers University–Newark's NCAA Division III intercollegiate athletics program, campus recreation, and fitness facilities and operations.

Rutgers University–Newark (RU–N) is a leading urban research university that embodies excellence, opportunity, and impact. As an anchor institution in the city of Newark, RU–N is committed to fostering academic achievement, civic engagement, and inclusive growth. The university serves a richly diverse student body and is nationally recognized for its programs that advance social mobility, community partnerships, and innovative scholarships.

The Department of Athletics & Recreation is a vital part of this mission, providing students with opportunities to engage in healthy competition, physical fitness, and community building. The department oversees a robust NCAA Division III intercollegiate athletics program, comprehensive campus recreation offerings, and modern fitness facilities that serve the entire university community.

The Director of Athletics & Recreation will be responsible for and not limited to the following:

• Providing strategic leadership, operational oversight, and fiscal management for all athletic and recreation programs, services, and facilities.
• Ensuring that Athletics and Recreation align with RU–N's anchor mission, student success priorities, and commitment to access, equity, inclusion, and community engagement.
• Fostering a culture of academic and athletic excellence that enhances the student-athlete experience on and off the field.
• Overseeing compliance with NCAA Division III and conference rules and regulations.
• Developing and managing departmental budgets, resources, and employees to ensure effective and transparent operations.
• Collaborating with campus and community partners to strengthen engagement, outreach, and support for athletics and recreation initiatives.
• Promoting visibility and pride in Rutgers University–Newark athletics through strategic communication, fundraising, and alumni relations efforts.
• Leading efforts to enhance facilities, programming, and services that support the health and well-being of all athletic students, faculty, and staff.

The Department of Athletics & Recreation plays a central role in shaping the Rutgers–Newark student experience by promoting teamwork, resilience, leadership, and wellness. Through inclusive programs and competitive excellence, the department contributes to the university's mission of preparing students to lead and thrive in a diverse and changing world.

Minimum Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in sports management, higher education administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5–7 years of progressively responsible experience in collegiate athletics administration.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

Position will require evening or weekend work to support departmental needs, specific programs, and campus initiatives at the request of the supervisor or campus leadership.