Director of Athletics
About The Position
Reporting to the Dean of Students and Vice President for Student Affairs, the Director of Athletics, Fitness, and Recreation provides vision, leadership, and oversight for a comprehensive NCAA Division III athletics and recreation program. The Director serves as a key campus leader and member of the Student Affairs senior leadership team, aligning athletics and recreation with the College’s academic mission, enrollment priorities, and community engagement goals. This role encompasses varsity athletics, fitness and recreation programming, student well-being, and institutional engagement. The Director fosters strong relationships across campus and ensures a holistic student experience that supports competitive success, personal growth, and lifelong wellness.
Requirements
- Comprehensive knowledge of intercollegiate athletics administration and NCAA Division III compliance
- Strong understanding of student-athlete development and the integration of athletics within a liberal arts environment
- Demonstrated leadership and team management experience, including staff supervision and development
- Proven ability to manage budgets and optimize financial and human resources
- Experience with strategic planning, program development, and assessment
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to engage diverse stakeholders
- Collaborative leadership style with the ability to work across departments and constituencies
- Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities
- Understanding of recruitment and enrollment dynamics in a selective liberal arts college setting
- Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred
- Minimum of five years of progressive leadership experience in collegiate athletics administration or a related field, including supervision, strategic planning, budget and facilities management, fundraising, and program oversight
Nice To Haves
- Ability to cultivate alumni engagement and philanthropic support through relationship-building and events
- Experience leading fundraising initiatives and donor engagement efforts
- Visible and engaged leadership presence within campus and broader community
- Commitment to fostering mentorship, inclusion, and a positive team culture
- Demonstrated ability to inspire and lead with creativity, empathy, and cultural competence
Responsibilities
- Provide strategic leadership and oversight for all athletics, fitness, and recreation programs
- Ensure compliance with NCAA Division III and conference regulations and advise senior leadership on governance matters
- Establish and communicate a clear vision aligned with Skidmore’s mission, values, and strategic priorities
- Supervise and support coaches, staff, and student-athlete development initiatives
- Lead hiring, performance evaluation, mentorship, and professional development for departmental staff
- Foster an inclusive and high-performing environment that supports student-athlete success and leadership
- Oversee recruitment strategies in collaboration with admissions and enrollment teams
- Manage departmental operations, including budget oversight and resource allocation
- Oversee athletics facilities, including the McCaffery-Wagman Tennis and Wellness Center and Williamson Center
- Strengthen relationships with faculty to support integration of athletics and academics
- Collaborate with campus partners across student affairs, advancement, admissions, financial aid, and facilities
- Represent the College in NCAA and conference governance and external partnerships
- Engage with alumni, donors, and community stakeholders to support program growth and advancement
- Promote school spirit, institutional pride, and community engagement through athletics
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Manager
