Athletics Development Officer

Indiana Wesleyan University•Marion, IN

31d•Onsite

About The Position

Summary of Position: The Athletics Development Officer serves as a front-line fundraiser in support of the priorities of Indiana Wesleyan University Athletics and Advancement departments. The position is responsible for the identification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of annual and individual gift donors through relationships with alumni, parents, and friends. The Athletics Development Officer will also assist with staffing donor hospitality and other alumni engagement functions around athletics events, as well as serve as the individual sport liaison with coaches and volunteers to develop strategies to advance their philanthropic support.

Requirements

According to Indiana Wesleyan University employment policy all employees must possess a strong Christian commitment and adhere to the standards outlined in the IWU Community Lifestyle Statement.
A bachelor's degree in Sports Management, Business, Public Relations, or Marketing is preferred
Minimum of one to three (1-3) years of direct or transferable experience with exposure to fundraising, direct sales, client services, or related fields. Experience in intercollegiate athletics is preferred
Demonstrate exceptional writing, interpersonal, and public speaking skills.
Ability to work effectively as part of a team
Ability to engage with donors and stakeholders in a friendly and professional manner
The successful candidate is expected to have their primary office based out of the IWU campus in Marion, IN. They must be capable of traveling up to 50% of time, working nights and weekends as needed, to fulfill portfolio and management responsibilities and participate in fundraising and engagement related events.
Work independently and be self-motivated in initiating contact with donors and prospects.
Ability to work evenings and weekends as needed for events and athletic functions.

Nice To Haves

Experience in intercollegiate athletics is preferred

Responsibilities

Build Relationships
Identify and manage a portfolio of 125-150 prospects composed of individuals with specific affiliation and/or giving interest to Athletics
Conduct 120-150, high-value personal visits annually for the purpose of developing a philanthropic gifts pipeline and closing philanthropic revenue to support the priorities of the university and department of athletics
Establish collaborative and productive relationships with Athletics administration and coaches, and become knowledgeable regarding the Department's priorities, programs, and events in order to advance the priorities of Athletics
Impact a culture of giving for IWU Athletics, encouraging prospects and donors to support the university's mission and vision while fostering a sense of pride and ownership spotlighting the transformative impact of their gifts
Strategic Fundraising
Develop and implement personalized stewardship plans for donors
Provide accurate information of all prospects and donor activity in the Advancement CRM (Slate) including contact reports, gift commitments, strategy statements, and other documentation
Engage in athletic annual gift solicitations that:
1) retain current and re-engage lost athletics donors
2) increase giving levels of current athletics donors
3) acquire new athletic donors
4) increase unrestricted giving to the general Athletics Fund
Collaborative Teamwork and Creative Engagement
Routinely meet with appropriate IWU administrators, coaches and staff to build relationships, gain insights, and establish partnerships to support giving opportunities and strategies
Identify prospects with potential for major and planned gifts and transition them to the major and planned giving team for further relationship development
Execute special projects and other duties as assigned to support the overall work of the team in Athletics Development and University Advancement
Serves as development representative at athletics-based events, meetings, and programs, related to donor engagement
High-Impact Hospitality and Character
Serve as an IWU ambassador with a high level of integrity, authenticity, and confidentiality
Maintain a positive image when dealing with constituents and the university community; demonstrate a lifestyle consistent with the values and ethos of IWU
Exhibit IWU values of Christlikeness, commitment, leadership, service, stewardship, innovation and diversity
Foster a collaborative and inclusive spirit among subordinates, peers, and superiors within University Advancement and across the IWU community
Travel locally and out of town to cultivate, solicit, and steward relationships