Director of Athletics

Job Summary

Responsible for the effective day-to-day management and supervision of the University athletic department. Position requires a high level of effective leadership and interaction with internal and external constituencies. Responsible for all athletic budget implementation and oversight, compliance/eligibility issues, scheduling and management of sports facilities, marketing, athletic fundraising, recruitment and retention of athletic staff, ensuring the attainment of student-athlete recruitment goals, and acting as a representative of the University to the Ottawa community, athletic conference, and the NAIA. The Director will demonstrate an understanding of the university’s mission and foster its values and strategic goals.

Essential Functions of the Job

• Represent the University at athletic conference and NAIA meetings assuring effective collaboration as a member of the conference.
• Work collaboratively with the Registrar and Faculty Athletic Representative to establish individual student-athlete eligibility according to conference and NAIA rules for each respective sport. Complete Board of Trustee, KCAC, and NAIA reports in a timely manner and be available to represent the department as requested by university administration.
• Communicate with the Campus President and administration (and coaches) concerning all issues related to the athletic department, conference, and the NAIA.
• Oversee the planning and scheduling of events within the athletic facilities. Schedule staff to effectively manage and operate each sporting event. Oversee management of all athletic property and facilities.
• Direct effective and compliant recruitment of student-athletes and effectively monitor and report student-athlete outcomes such as retention and completion. Ensure student-athletes are making academic progress in their coursework and maintaining eligibility for participation.
• Participate as an active and effective member of the campus leadership team and as a member of campus-wide and university-wide committees, as needed.
• Responsible for all athletic budgets. Work with coaches, trainers, staff, finance department, Campus President, Director of Administrative Operations, and CFO to develop appropriate budgets and monitor them throughout the fiscal year.
• Responsible for all aspects of transportation management for all teams through fleet, charter bus, van rental, and/or air travel.
• Be visible in the Ottawa community to generate goodwill toward the university’s athletic programs.
• Work collaboratively with the University Advancement (UA) office to oversee all athletic-related fundraising and events, such as athletic alumni projects and events. Work closely with UA to gain more active members and increase gift levels.
• Other duties as assigned.

Standard University Expectations

• Manage your staff consistent with university personnel policies. Encourage collaboration among the staff, provide regular evaluation and feedback, and facilitate developmental opportunities.
• Model and encourage collaboration among University departments assuring effective communication and operations.
• Understand the University’s policies and procedures, and exercise good judgment accordingly. Assume that University and student information is managed in a confidential and ethical manner in accordance with the University’s Code of Conduct and Ethics.
• Provide leadership through conduct, attitude, and professionalism. Represent the University to students, external groups, faculty, and staff in a way that reflects positively on the University.
• Be mindful and supportive of the overall Mission of Ottawa University.
• Exercise Inclusivity in your daily actions accruing alignment within expectations of the University’s Mission Statement and Statement of Inclusion, Openness, and Community.

Additional Eligibility Requirements

• Excellent communication, interpersonal and leadership skills required.
• Ability to work with diverse groups to provide education and training.
• Ability to assume a leadership role with multiple work groups.
• Strategic thinker, and the ability to motivate staff through leadership and building a positive and productive team.
• Excellent understanding of student retention strategies in a college environment.
• Customer service oriented with strong verbal and written communication skills needed to facilitate and resolve problems.
• A strong commitment to adult learning in a liberal arts education is expected.

Working Conditions

• Maintain emotional control under stress.
• Prolonged period of sitting.
• Frequent standing, stooping, bending, pulling, pushing, and lifting; frequent prolonged and irregular hours, and exposure to varying temperature.

Travel Requirements

Yes – Travel Required. Regular part of this position.

Required Education

Master’s Degree required. Masters Degree in Athletic Administration or a related field preferred.

Required Experience

Minimum of 5 years of proven collegiate athletic leadership experience.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Ottawa University is committed to equal employment opportunity and does not unlawfully discriminate in recruitment or employment on the basis of race, age, sex, color, religion, disability, national origin, sexual orientation, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law.