Associate Athletics Director for Donor Engagement and Operations (Administrator I)

About the role

The Associate Athletics Director for Donor Engagement & Operations is a senior leader within SDSU’s Division I Athletics Department, working in close partnership with University Relations and Development (URAD) to create exceptional donor experiences and drive operational excellence.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategies to strengthen donor relationships, satisfaction, and philanthropic impact.
• Lead high-profile donor events and premium engagement experiences.
• Serve as a primary liaison for high-level donors and partner with development officers to align engagement with major gift strategies.
• Oversee donor engagement operations, including staff management, budget management, and resource allocation.
• Manage donor benefits, premium seating, hospitality programs, and related policies.
• Partner with Gift Administration to ensure accurate gift processing, documentation, and effective use of engagement technology platforms.
• Partner across Athletics, University Development, Alumni, and external vendors to deliver integrated donor experiences.
• Support campaign initiatives through strategic engagement and event activation.
• Direct donor-facing communications and ensure consistent branding and messaging across all donor engagement channels.
• Foster a high-performing, service-oriented team culture.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated knowledge of NCAA, conference, and University rules, with a proven commitment to compliance, institutional control, ethical conduct, and timely reporting of violations.
• Proven experience engaging donors with credibility, professionalism, and sound judgment.
• Demonstrated operational mastery with strong attention to detail and follow-through.
• Demonstrated success working collaboratively and adapting to changing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Demonstrated commitment to advancing collegiate athletics and student-athlete success.
• Experience in event planning, project management, and cross-functional collaboration.
• Experience with Ellucian and TicketMaster or similar CRMs is preferred.

Benefits

At San Diego State University, we offer a competitive salary that reflects your qualifications and experience, along with a comprehensive benefits package including generous leave benefits, retirement security, comprehensive health coverage, educational opportunities, and voluntary benefits.