Director of Athletics

Eastern Illinois University • Charleston, SC

1d • Onsite

About The Position

Eastern Illinois University (EIU) invites applications and nominations for the position of Athletic Director. Reporting directly to the President and serving as a member of the senior leadership team, the Athletic Director provides the strategic vision, leadership and passion, necessary to elevate Panther Athletics, fostering a culture of competitive achievement and deep engagement with alumni, donors, and the broader community. The Director oversees all administrative, operational, and fiscal aspects of an NCAA Division I program. This includes long-range strategic planning for facilities, fundraising, marketing, and public relations. As the university’s primary representative to the Ohio Valley Conference and the NCAA, the Director ensures steadfast compliance with league standards, Title IX, and state/federal laws.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree required.
• A minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible leadership in intercollegiate athletics (Director, Associate/Assistant Director, or comparable professional intercollegiate athletic administrative role), including staff supervision and budget responsibilities.
• At least three years of leadership experience at an NCAA member institution.
• Deep knowledge of NCAA regulations with an unwavering commitment to the highest ethical standards.
• A proven track record of prioritizing academic excellence, holistic wellness, and a "culture of care" for student-athletes.
• Ability to align athletic initiatives with institutional enrollment goals, current budget resources, and long-term university planning including fundraising and sponsorships.
• Sophisticated budget management skills with a focus on revenue generation and balanced expenditures.
• Visionary leadership with a keen understanding of the evolving landscape of Division I athletics and the ability, as well energy, necessary to navigate its complexities with passion and commitment to student-athletes.

Nice To Haves

• Demonstrated success with obtaining philanthropic support for both capital projects and programs preferred.

Responsibilities

• Oversees all administrative, operational, and fiscal aspects of an NCAA Division I program.
• Provides long-range strategic planning for facilities, fundraising, marketing, and public relations.
• Serves as the university’s primary representative to the Ohio Valley Conference and the NCAA.
• Ensures steadfast compliance with league standards, Title IX, and state/federal laws.
• Fosters a culture of competitive achievement and deep engagement with alumni, donors, and the broader community.

Benefits

• Comprehensive Medical Coverage: Competitive employee insurance premiums with flexible plan options.
• Vision Insurance: Vision coverage is included with medical at no cost.
• Dental Insurance: Dental plans are available to meet your needs.
• Retirement Benefits: Participation in the State University Retirement System, which includes medical insurance benefits upon retirement.
• Tuition Waivers: Opportunities to pursue educational goals through tuition waivers for employees and dependent children.
• Generous Paid Time Off: Up to 12 paid holidays annually, plus earned vacation and sick time.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director