Director of Annual Giving (HR Title: Mngr, Athletics Development)

Education and Experience:

A Bachelor’s degree is required. A Master's degree is preferred. 

A minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in annual giving, fundraising, development, marketing, or a related field is required.

Demonstrated experience developing fundraising strategies, executing multi-channel solicitation campaigns, managing donor relationships, and using data to drive donor acquisition, retention, and revenue growth is also required. 

Experience in higher education or Division I collegiate athletics development is preferred.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Candidate must demonstrate strong interpersonal and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate broadly across the University and develop and maintain effective relationships with a wide range of constituencies. Must also demonstrate strong written communication skills.

Candidate must possess strong problem-solving skills with the ability to identify and analyze problems, as well as devise solutions. Must also have strong organizational, planning and time management skills.  

Candidates must possess strong organizational, strategic planning, and project management skills. Demonstrated expertise in annual giving, fundraising, and marketing is required.

Candidate must demonstrate the ability to develop solicitation strategies, analyze donor data, manage multiple priorities, and build collaborative relationships with donors and University partners. 

Knowledge of Microsoft Office and experience with fundraising/CRM databases and digital communication platforms are required. Experience with Blackbaud, Paciolan/PAC Fund, or comparable advancement CRM and ticketing systems is preferred.

Physical and Environmental Demands:

Physical:

• Bend

• Reach above shoulder level

• Carry/Lift up to 25 lbs.

• Sit for extended periods

• Squat

• Climb

• Handle objects (dexterity)

• Carry/Lift over 25 lbs. to 50 lbs.

• Kneel

• Stand

• Walk for long distances

• Push/Pull

Environmental:

• Drives motorized equipment

Deadline to Apply:

The position is open until filled.

Priority consideration may be given to submissions received by September 18, 2026.

EEO Statement

SMU is an equal opportunity employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, or gender identity and expression.

Benefits:

SMU offers staff a broad, competitive array of health and related benefits. In addition to traditional benefits such as health, dental, and vision plans, SMU offers a wide range of wellness programs to help attract, support, and retain our employees whose work continues to make SMU an outstanding education and research institution.

SMU is committed to providing an array of retirement programs that benefit and protect you and your family throughout your working years at SMU and, if you meet SMU's retirement eligibility criteria, during your retirement years after you leave SMU.

The value of learning at SMU isn't just about preparing our students for the future. Employees have access to a wide variety of professional and personal development opportunities, including tuition benefits.