Director of Principal Gifts, USC Athletics

University of Southern California•Los Angeles, CA

12d•$130,000 - $150,000•Hybrid

About The Position

Director of Principal Gifts, USC Athletics University Advancement is seeking a strategic, relationship-driven, results-oriented fundraising professional to serve as Director of Principal Gifts, USC Athletics. This is a key frontline fundraiser responsible for securing major philanthropic support for one of the nation’s premier athletics programs. Reporting to the Executive Director of Principal Gifts, this individual will play a hands-on, donor-facing role focused on cultivating, soliciting, and closing six and seven-figure gifts ($1M+) to advance the strategic priorities of USC Athletics. The Director will thrive on building authentic relationships, developing thoughtful solicitation strategies, and achieving ambitious fundraising goals that directly enhance the student-athlete experience, support facility improvements, and strengthen USC’s leadership in collegiate athletics. This is a compelling opportunity for an experienced fundraising professional who thrives in a fast-paced athletics environment, is driven by measurable outcomes, and is passionate about building meaningful connections between donors and impact. This is a hybrid position under USC’s current work arrangement plan. Evenings, weekends, and travel are required for this position. University Advancement is committed to non-discrimination and equal opportunity for all, where all advancement staff and our stakeholders have the opportunity to connect, belong, and grow while supporting the University of Southern California’s mission, values, and goals.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree (or combined experience/education as a substitute)
Minimum of five (5) years of professional fundraising experience, preferably in higher education, athletics, or related nonprofit environments
Demonstrated track record of success securing campaign, major and principal gifts and meeting fundraising goals
Exemplary interpersonal skills for communicating for “cold calling,” exceptional relationship-building skills, with demonstrated success engaging high-level donors and stakeholders, and being particularly sensitive to varied, sophisticated, high-net worth individuals and groups
Ability to manage, balance and prioritize different tasks and projects
Strong analytical and critical thinking skills

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree
Seven (7) or more years of relevant experience in development or advancement leadership roles
Strong understanding of intercollegiate athletics, donor motivations, and the role of philanthropy in sports programs
Experience with donor/development management systems (e.g. Salesforce, DonorPerfect, Raiser’s Edge NXT, eTapestry, Bloomerang, easyTithe)

Responsibilities

Serve as a frontline principal gift officer, managing a portfolio of major prospects with the capacity to give $1M+
Lead all stages of the donor lifecycle from identification and cultivation to solicitation and stewardship
Develop customized, data-informed strategies that align donor interests with Athletics priorities
Work with the Athletics Chief Development Officer, Major Gifts team, and University Advancement to design compelling proposals and gift opportunities that drive transformational support
Achieve and exceed defined performance metrics, including annual visit, solicitation, and revenue goals
Initiate and maintain a high volume of donor visits, both locally and regionally, to cultivate relationships and drive gift conversations. Travel and attend marquee games and events to build meaningful connections with donors and prospects while representing USC with pride
Engage and inspire alumni, parents, and friends of USC Athletics through events, game-day experiences, and regional programs that deepen donor connection to the Trojan spirit
Work collaboratively with Advancement Communications and Athletics staff to deliver personalized donor experiences that showcase impact and gratitude
Collaborate with USC’s Advancement Communications department to produce fundraising materials that elevate visibility and donor engagement
Provide leadership and guidance to volunteer groups supporting fundraising efforts
Ensure Advancement Athletics events and activities are executed with excellence and aligned with strategic goals
Attend regular Athletics and Advancement staff meetings to maintain strong alignment between development initiatives and programmatic goals
Manage day-to-day fundraising operations, contributing to the development of goals, policies, and long-term strategies
Assess and evaluate fundraising programs and events, identifying areas for improvement and recommending strategic adjustments
Coordinate donor strategies with peers across campus to ensure holistic relationship management and institutional alignment
Research and craft tailored proposals for major and principal gift donors, translating USC Athletics’ strategic priorities into compelling philanthropic opportunities that inspire transformational giving.
Prepare annual development reports and analyze donor engagement data, identify trends, measure progress toward fundraising goals, and inform future strategy to strengthen USC Athletics’ position as a national leader in collegiate sports.