Associate AD for Development

Location : Main Campus - Homewood, AL

Job Type: Staff Full Time

Job Number: FY2600509

Division: Athletic Director for Staff & Coaches

Department: STA-Athletic Director - Administration

Opening Date: 09/25/2025

FLSA: Exempt

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Description

In collaboration with the Deputy AD for External Affairs, the Associate AD for Development will develop and implement effective and comprehensive fundraising strategies to increase gift revenue in support of Samford University's 17 intercollegiate sports. This position will serve as a primary fundraiser for the Samford Athletics department while also leading a team of athletic development professionals. The role requires a candidate who has demonstrated success as a fundraiser and a leader.

Job Duties

Report to and work closely with the Deputy AD for External Affairs to develop strategies to increase gift revenue.

Meet regularly with the Deputy AD for External Affairs to track progress toward fundraising goals, assess capital projects and review current strategies.

Coordinate all fundraising activities with University Advancement to effectively cultivate support, build relationships, and advance the Samford mission.

Manage a portfolio of approximately 100 donors and prospects.

Regularly identify and qualify prospects through research and referrals.

Participate in 8-10 face-to-face visits per month designed to move individuals toward making philanthropic commitments or increasing their current giving level.

Meet established annual fundraising goals.

Enter appropriate contact reports and maintain current donor information in the CRM system.

Attend athletic events to engage donors, alumni, and friends.

Establish a branding strategy that supports all fundraising efforts.

Oversee the development of fundraising materials, including annual giving pieces, capital project collateral, written proposals, recognition scripts, stewardship communications, etc.

Work with head coaches to increase engagement and giving by former student-athletes and friends through strategic communications, events and one on one contacts.

Represent the athletic department at various athletic, university, and alumni events.

Oversee the development and execution of all sport-related fundraising initiatives and communications to include booster clubs.

Provide event assistance for the Samford Classic, Samford Hall of Fame Celebration, game day donor hospitality, and other fundraising and engagement initiatives.

Participate in strategic planning, goal setting, and event planning with the athletic development team and/or university advancement.

Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree.

Minimum five (5) years of experience in fundraising or athletics administration.

Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.

Ability to travel occasionally, including overnight and work nights and weekends as needed.

Ability to maintain a professional image.

Enthusiasm for fundraising and alumni engagement.

Ability to interact professionally with alumni, constituents, and university personnel.

Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, including outstanding writing and proofreading skills.

Maturity with the ability to maintain sensitive and confidential information.

Understanding and appreciation for Samford University's mission.

Knowledge and prior experience working in CRM systems, donor management and communications software, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.

Highly developed organizational skills, including the ability to handle multiple projects and meet deadlines.

Basic knowledge of NCAA rules as they relate to job duties.

Preferred Qualifications

Master's degree.

Fundraising experience in college athletics.

Former student-athlete at the collegiate level.

We offer a complete benefits package to full-time employees including health care, dental, vision, deferred compensation plans, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, long-term disability, holidays, vacation, and sick leave.

To learn more details, visit our

01

Do you have a Bachelor's degree or higher?

Yes

No

02

Do you have at least 5 years of experience in fundraising or athletic administration?

Yes

No

03

Can you lift 50 lbs or more?

Yes

No

Required Question