Director of Legacy Giving – Athletics

About the role

The Director of Legacy Giving – Athletics will lead a portfolio of 100‑125 major‑gift donors and prospects, cultivating long‑term relationships that support the university’s athletic facilities, endowments and other priorities.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and manage relationships with donors and prospects throughout the full donor cycle.
• Secure multi‑year major gifts and estate commitments for athletic programs.
• Provide ongoing stewardship, keeping donors connected to the impact of their gifts.
• Attend athletic competitions and special events to strengthen stakeholder engagement.
• Oversee and mentor a part‑time staff member, ensuring performance goals are met.
• Maintain accurate prospect data using CRM systems and collaborate with campus fundraising teams.
• Act as liaison between the athletic department and university‑wide principal and planned giving teams.
• Stay current on fundraising trends and share best practices with colleagues.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree (advanced degree preferred).
• Six or more years of professional development, fundraising or external relations experience.
• Proven success securing multi‑year major gifts and estate gifts, ideally within intercollegiate athletics.
• Ability to travel locally (≈50%) and out‑of‑state (≈25%).
• Physical ability to work evenings/weekends, lift up to 25 lb, and attend events.
• Eligibility to work in the United States (no visa sponsorship).

Required skills

• Microsoft Office
• Google Suite
• CRM systems