Athletics Development Chief | Deputy AD & Fundraising

Southern Methodist University; University Park (TX); On-site; USD 120,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Southern Methodist University in Dallas seeks a Deputy Athletic Director/Chief Development Officer for Athletics to lead philanthropic strategy and major gifts for Mustang Athletics. The role reports to the Director of Athletics and collaborates with the Development External Affairs team to align fundraising with university priorities.

The successful candidate will personally manage principal gift prospects, oversee the Athletics development team, and build a high-impact donor program that

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s preferred.
• Minimum seven years of professional athletics/sports fundraising experience.
• Seven+ years in management or supervisory roles.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the chief fundraising strategist for SMU Athletics and develop a comprehensive philanthropic strategy.
• Advise leadership on fundraising strategy, donor engagement, and campaign priorities.
• Lead the Athletics development organization and set portfolio standards and quantified goals.
• Personally manage a portfolio of principal and major gifts.
• Oversee annual giving, premium seating, donor clubs, events, and capital project fundraising.
• Coordinate fundraising activities with University Development External Affairs and DEA policies.

Skills

Fundraising leadership

Donor engagement

Strategic planning

Relationship building

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Master’s degree preferred

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Southern Methodist University in Dallas seeks a Deputy Athletic Director/Chief Development Officer for Athletics to lead philanthropic strategy and major gifts for Mustang Athletics. The role reports to the Director of Athletics and collaborates with the Development External Affairs team to align fundraising with university priorities.

The successful candidate will personally manage principal gift prospects, oversee the Athletics development team, and build a high-impact donor program that