Executive Director of Operations, Events and Donor Relations

Executive Director of Operations, Events and Donor Relations

Job Title Executive Director of Operations, Events and Donor Relations

Location

Campus

Commitment to On-Campus Experience

Syracuse University is committed to delivering an exceptional student experience through vibrant, engaged campus communities. This position is based at the above campus location and requires regular in‑person presence to support our students, collaborate with colleagues, and contribute to our thriving academic environment. Syracuse University values the collaboration, mentorship, and spontaneous connections that happen when our community works together on campus.

Remote work arrangements are limited in accordance with University policy.

Pay Range

$132,000

Pay rates at Syracuse University are based on a combination of factors including, but not limited to, the job responsibilities; the candidate’s education, training, work experience and key competencies; the university’s strategic priorities; internal peer equity; applicable federal, state, local laws, grant funding and contractual requisites; and external market analyses.

Staff Level S6

FLSA Status Exempt

Hours

Standard University business hours

8:30am – 5:00pm (academic year)

8:00am – 4:30pm (summer)

Hours may vary based on operational needs.

Job Type Full‑time

Unionized Position Code Not Applicable

Job Description

The Executive Director serves as a strategic partner in overseeing strategy, operations, communications, and donor outreach and stewardship that advance the athletic department’s mission, elevate institutional reputation, and deepen engagement with key athletic stakeholders, including alumni, donors, staff and past and present student athletes. This senior‑level leader guides a comprehensive strategy for donor solicitation, donor stewardship, event management, and operational excellence for the Cuse Athletics Fund.

The position plays a critical role in enhancing the donor experience, managing high‑impact cultivation and recognition events, and optimizing internal processes that support the university’s comprehensive fundraising efforts for intercollegiate athletics. As a key member of the athletic advancement leadership team, the role will partner with leaders throughout the central Advancement operation and serve as an additional strategy leader for the Champion Cuse campaign.

• Bachelor’s degree is required. A master’s degree and/or equivalent combination of education and experience is preferred.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in fundraising, donor relations, event management, or advancement operations.
• Demonstrated experience in building and managing comprehensive stewardship programs.
• Proven track record of successfully planning and executing high‑level events for sophisticated donor audiences.
• Strong project management skills with ability to manage multiple complex initiatives simultaneously.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with ability to interact effectively with donors, volunteers, coaches, and senior administrators.
• Experience working with CRM /fundraising databases (Salesforce, Blackbaud, or similar platforms).
• Valid Driver’s license and access to a reliable vehicle is required.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends and holidays, as required by event schedules and athletics competitions.

• Strong verbal and written communications skills, ability to problem solve and lead teams, along with strong work ethic, reliability, and ability to keep confidential information as well as maintain professional code of conduct.
• Work effectively under pressure and time constraints and ability to work off‑hours, including weekends and nights.
• Well‑developed interpersonal skills necessary to build relationships with volunteer leaders and campus partners.
• Demonstrated ability to maintain confidentiality of event logistics, participants and security planning as required.

• Define the strategic direction for CAF and athletics advancement to ensure alignment with institutional/divisional priorities and fundraising goals.
• Develop and implement a comprehensive annual and long‑range…