Associate Athletic Director for External Operations

Intercollegiate Athletics

Job Description

The Athletic Director for External Operations provides leadership and oversight for the athletic department’s external functions, including marketing, communications, corporate partnerships, ticket sales, fan engagement, and community relations. This position serves as a key member of the department’s leadership team and is responsible for advancing the department’s visibility, revenue generation, brand development, and external partnerships in support of the department’s mission and strategic goals.

The Associate Athletic Director for External Operations collaborates closely with coaches, University Foundation, alumni relations, marketing teams, community stakeholders, and athletic department staff to strengthen support for athletics and enhance the overall student‑athlete experience.

Provide leadership and oversight for external athletic department operations. Serve as a member of the department’s executive leadership team. Develop and implement strategies that enhance the department’s brand, visibility, and revenue opportunities. Coordinate external relations initiatives and departmental outreach efforts. Assist the Deputy Athletic Director with departmental management and strategic initiatives.

Assist with planning and execution of athletic events, donor functions, and special events. Coordinate hospitality and VIP experiences for donors, sponsors, and guests. Support external operations related to championships, tournaments, and major athletic events. Ensure professional representation of the athletic department at public functions.

Collaborate with the Foundation’s Marketing Team in promoting the athletic marketing, branding, and promotional initiatives. Direct communication strategies that enhance the visibility of athletic programs. Collaborate with media relations personnel to promote student‑athletes, coaches, and teams. Manage digital/creative content strategies, social media engagement, and public relations efforts. Ensure consistent messaging and brand standards across all athletic communications and the University marketing team.

Oversee ticket sales strategies, ticket packages, and customer service initiatives. Develop programs that increase attendance and engagement. Coordinate game‑day promotions and special events. Enhance the overall fan experience through innovative marketing and outreach efforts. Monitor attendance trends and recommend strategies for growth.

Serve as a primary liaison between athletics and external stakeholders. Foster relationships with alumni, boosters, community leaders, and supporters. Coordinate community outreach programs and public appearances. Promote athletic department involvement in campus and community initiatives. Strengthen alumni engagement and support for athletic programs.

Oversee the day‑to‑day operations of the Ticket office and Tennis Center. Facilitate season ticket packages for men and women basketball and baseball to enhance attendance and generate revenue. Create ways to increase revenue for internal and external use of the Tennis Center.

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
• Minimum of five years of responsible leadership experience in athletics and/or NAIA/NCAA administration, fundraising, marketing, communications, external relations, or a related field.
• Demonstrated experience in revenue generation, donor relations, sponsorship development, or marketing initiatives.
• S…