Athletics Annual Giving Director | Lead Donor Engagement

Southern Methodist University; Dallas (TX); On-site; USD 95,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Southern Methodist University is seeking a Director of Annual Giving for Athletics to lead and execute the annual giving strategy, donor communications, and premium seating programs. You will personally manage a portfolio of donors and collaborate with the Leadership Annual Giving team to grow Boulevard Society memberships and philanthropic support.

The role requires at least five years in annual giving or related fundraising, strong data-driven decision making, and the ability to work

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s preferred.
• Minimum five years of progressive experience in annual giving or related field.
• Experience developing fundraising strategies and multi-channel campaigns.
• Experience with data-driven donor engagement and reporting.

Responsibilities

• Lead and execute SMU Athletics annual giving programs and campaigns.
• Manage donor communications and premium seating operations with the Ticket Office.
• Develop strategies to acquire, retain, upgrade, and engage donors.
• Identify and advance donors toward higher giving levels with LAG team.
• Collaborate with University partners to expand Boulevard Society membership.

Skills

Fundraising

Donor relations

Annual giving

Strategic planning

Education

Bachelor's degree

Master's degree preferred

Tools

Blackbaud

Paciolan

Job description

Southern Methodist University is seeking a Director of Annual Giving for Athletics to lead and execute the annual giving strategy, donor communications, and premium seating programs. You will personally manage a portfolio of donors and collaborate with the Leadership Annual Giving team to grow Boulevard Society memberships and philanthropic support.

The role requires at least five years in annual giving or related fundraising, strong data-driven decision making, and the ability to work