Job Description

The Associate Athletics Director for Major Gifts provides strategic leadership in securing philanthropic support for Marshall Athletics. This position identifies, cultivates, solicits, and stewards donors and prospects capable of making major gifts to advance department priorities such as scholarships, facilities, program enhancements, and student-athlete well-being.


Serving as a senior member of the Big Green staff, the Associate AD manages a portfolio of high-capacity donors, collaborates closely with University Advancement, and drives measurable growth in annual and major gift revenue.

Key Responsibilities:

Fundraising & Portfolio Management:

Manage a personal portfolio of

75-100 qualified major gift prospects

with giving capacity of

$25,000+

. Conduct

at least 150 meaningful donor contacts annually

, including in-person visits, calls, and virtual meetings. Develop individualized cultivation and solicitation strategies to advance prospects through the giving cycle. Solicit and close major gifts that meet or exceed

annual fundraising goals

set by Big Green leadership. Maintain an active

proposal pipeline of 12-15 solicitations

at all times. Partner with coaches and administrators to identify fundraising priorities and align donor interests with departmental needs.

Donor Relations & Stewardship:

Serve as a primary relationship manager for major donors and key stakeholders. Provide personalized stewardship and recognition to strengthen donor loyalty and retention. Collaborate with Big Green staff to coordinate donor engagement events, game-day hospitality, and special initiatives. Represent Marshall Athletics at donor functions, university events, and community engagements.

Strategic Leadership & Collaboration:

Work in partnership with the

Executive Director of the Big Green

, the

Athletic Director

, and

University Advancement

to achieve departmental fundraising objectives. Support the design and execution of capital campaigns and other special fundraising initiatives. Utilize CRM systems to document activity, proposals, and outcomes; ensure data integrity and accountability. Mentor and support development staff and student interns as assigned.
Salary Range $65,000-$75,000; Salary is commensurate with education, experience, and internal equity Salary Type Salary Time Type Full-Time Work Location MU - Marshall University
Qualifications
Must be able to perform all essential job duties as outlined in the job description.
Required Qualifications

Education

Bachelor's Degree

Experience

Minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible fundraising or development experience, ideally in intercollegiate athletics or higher education. Proven track record of securing major gifts and meeting fundraising goals. Strong communication, relationship-building, and presentation skills. Ability to work evenings, weekends, and travel extensively for donor engagement. Commitment to the mission, values, and traditions of Marshall University and The Big Green.

Preferred Qualifications

Education

Master's degree in sports administration or related field.

Experience

Posting Detail Information
Posting Number MU1203E Open Date 11/19/2025 Close Date Open Until Filled Yes Special Instructions Summary