Director of Principal Gifts, USC Athletics

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.

• 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. (10%)
• Prepare annual development reports and analyze donor engagement data, identify trends, measure progress toward fundraising goals, and inform future strategy to strengthen USC Athletics’…