Athletics Development Lead – Donor Engagement

Western Carolina University; Cullowhee (NC); Hybrid; USD 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Western Carolina University is seeking an Assistant Director of Development for the Catamount Club to drive sport-specific annual giving and donor engagement. You will partner with Athletics and Advancement to create compelling campaigns, manage events, and grow donor support for student-athletes.

The role requires strong communication, project management, and donor relations skills, with a focus on outcomes, storytelling, and cross-team collaboration.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; fundraising experience preferred in collegiate athletics.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for donor engagement.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and adapt in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Develop sport-specific annual giving strategies and donor engagement plans.
• Lead fundraising campaigns and events to support Catamount Club.
• Collaborate with coaches to identify stories that highlight funding opportunities.
• Build pipelines of prospective donors and coordinate solicitations.
• Use data analytics to evaluate performance and improve strategies.

Skills

Communication

Customer service

Organizational skills

Multitasking

Donor relationship management

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

Microsoft Office

Donor database systems

Job description

Western Carolina University is seeking an Assistant Director of Development for the Catamount Club to drive sport-specific annual giving and donor engagement. You will partner with Athletics and Advancement to create compelling campaigns, manage events, and grow donor support for student-athletes.

The role requires strong communication, project management, and donor relations skills, with a focus on outcomes, storytelling, and cross-team collaboration.