S366

Executive Director of Athletic Philanthropy

Regular (PIN)

Exempt

$105,000 - $115,000 - Commensurate with Experience

05/06/2022

Yes

The Executive Director of Athletic Philanthropy will report to the Vice President for Institutional Advancement and be responsible for the cultivation and solicitation of gifts supporting Bowie State University (BSU) and its Athletics strategic plan. This newly created position is responsible for developing and soliciting a robust portfolio of prospects with the capacity to contribute major and transformative gifts. The Executive Director of Athletic Philanthropy will secure significant athletic sponsorships and contributions to ensure student-athlete success, academic achievement, and the long-term viability of the institution’s athletic offerings and sports facilities. They will also manage the growth strategy, implementation and evaluation for athletics fundraising. The incumbent will collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to grow athletics support into a sustained revenue stream. In addition to the attributes of a major gift officer, this role requires an entrepreneurial and creative mindset, with the propensity towards high-touch customer service and relationship building.

Manage all aspects of the planning, implementation and execution of the BSU athletic fundraising strategy to achieve individual and team fundraising goals. Capitalize on the success and unprecedented excitement for BSU athletics to cultivate beneficial relationships with prospective supporters from alumni, parents and friends of the university. Establish and manage a portfolio of major prospects (individuals, corporations and foundations) to achieve transformative revenue goals. Identify and qualify new prospects by working closely with athletics staff and alumni (former student-athletes) and engaging parents of current athletes. Become immersed in the BSU Athletics department and become knowledgeable about its needs, priorities and strategic plan. Represent BSU at meetings, athletic events and other functions. The Executive Director of Athletic Philanthropy may be tasked with special projects and initiatives and other duties as assigned.

A Master’s degree in an applicable field is required. Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) certification is highly desirable.

Minimum ten (10) years of fundraising or equivalent business development experience in applicable settings such as higher education, intercollegiate athletics or sports sales required.

Demonstrated success in proposal writing, face-to-face solicitation and closing 6- and 7-figure gifts or agreements. Excellent oral and written communication skills. The incumbent will be a persuasive writer with equally effective presentation skills and the ability to facilitate dialogue among diverse stakeholders. A high degree of project management and organizational skills to manage competing deadlines and priorities within a highly matrixed environment. Strong cultural competency and the ability to develop knowledge of and respect for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) history and culture. Self-starter able to work independently or collaboratively with athletics administrators, university leadership, alumni, boosters and other university fundraising staff. Experience with fundraising databases and/or CRM software.
Adherence to the Code of Ethical Principles of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) and the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE).

The scope of this position necessitates an onsite (campus) workplace, as well as frequent evening and weekend assignments, and occasional travel.

A valid driver’s license and access to reliable transportation is required.

This is a Non-Union position.

Please be advised, COVID-19 vaccinations are required for faculty and staff to be employed at Bowie State University.

BSU offers a generous benefits package, which includes 22 vacation days, 13 holidays, 15 sick days; comprehensive health insurance and retirement options; and tuition remission for employees and their dependents at any of the University System of Maryland schools.

https://bowiestate.peopleadmin.com/postings/2015