Senior Director of Development, Athletics - Cal State Fullerton

At a glance

Are you a relationship-driven fundraiser looking to make a lasting impact on Division I athletics? Another Source is partnering with Cal State Fullerton to recruit a Senior Director of Development, Athletics.

This is a unique opportunity to lead major gift fundraising efforts for Titan Athletics, one of the nation's premier NCAA Division I programs. Working closely with the Assistant Vice President for College and Program Development and the Director of Athletics, you'll develop and execute fundraising strategies, cultivate donors capable of giving $25,000+, and help secure philanthropic support for scholarships, athletic programs, and future initiatives.

 

This role offers the chance to build on a strong foundation while helping shape the future of Titan Athletics at one of California's largest and most dynamic public universities.

Description: What you'll be doing

Another Source’s client, Cal State Fullerton, is recruiting a Senior Director of Development, Athletics to join their team in Fullerton, California. 

Here's a little about Cal State Fullerton: 

Standing on 241 acres in the heart of Southern California, Cal State Fullerton (CSUF) is one of the largest and most respected universities in the California State University system, serving more than 43,000 students. Recognized for its commitment to student success, social mobility, and academic excellence, CSUF plays a vital role in preparing tomorrow's leaders while driving economic growth throughout Southern California. 

As a member of the Titan community, you'll join an institution that values innovation, collaboration, and inclusive excellence. From nationally recognized academic programs to a thriving campus culture, CSUF provides an environment where employees can make a meaningful impact while enjoying opportunities for professional growth and development. 

About this role: 

This is an exciting opportunity to lead philanthropy for one of the nation's most successful NCAA Division I athletics programs. The Senior Director of Development, Athletics will build on a strong foundation while helping shape the future of Titan Athletics through strategic fundraising and donor engagement. 

Reporting to the Assistant Vice President for College and Program Development and partnering closely with the Director of Athletics, this leader will develop and execute a comprehensive fundraising strategy that advances the vision for Titan Athletics and supports the university's broader advancement priorities. As a member of the Athletics Administration Team, you'll work collaboratively with coaches, university leadership, alumni, corporate partners, and donors to secure transformational philanthropic support for scholarships, facilities, and athletic programs. 

How you will spend your time 

• Develop and execute a comprehensive fundraising strategy aligned with the priorities of Titan Athletics and University Advancement.  

• Manage a portfolio of major gift prospects with a focus on gifts of $25,000 and above, including principal and planned giving opportunities.  

• Cultivate, solicit, and steward relationships with alumni, parents, corporations, foundations, and community partners.  

• Partner with the Director of Athletics, coaches, and senior university leaders to identify and secure philanthropic investments supporting athletic scholarships, programs, and strategic initiatives.  

• Develop annual fundraising plans and measurable strategies that support divisional fundraising priorities and campaign goals.  

• Collaborate with the Alumni Association to strengthen alumni engagement and philanthropic support for Titan Athletics.  

• Represent Athletics Development through presentations, donor meetings, events, and community engagement activities.  

• Serve as a member of the Athletics Administration Team, contributing to strategic planning and organizational success.  

• Coordinate donor cultivation and fundraising events while evaluating program effectiveness and identifying new growth opportunities.  

 

Minimum Qualifications 

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in a related field.  

• Five or more years of successful major gift fundraising experience, including capital or comprehensive campaign experience.  

• Demonstrated success cultivating, soliciting, and closing significant philanthropic gifts.  

• Experience developing and implementing strategic fundraising plans with measurable outcomes.  

• Proven ability to build relationships with donors, volunteers, and organizational leaders.  

• Experience planning and executing fundraising and donor cultivation events.  

• Outstanding written, verbal, and presentation skills.  

• Ability to collaborate effectively across diverse stakeholder groups, including faculty, staff, alumni, volunteers, and community partners.  

• Self-motivated, goal-oriented leader with strong organizational skills and experience utilizing fundraising or development software.  

• Demonstrated commitment to the highest standards of ethics, integrity, confidentiality, and professionalism.  

 

Preferred Qualifications 

• Experience leading athletic fundraising within a college or university environment.  

• Understanding of higher education advancement and the role of corporate partnerships in philanthropic success.  

 

Compensation & Benefits 

The anticipated hiring salary for this position is $123,600–$151,200 annually, depending on qualifications and experience. 

Why a Career with CSU is for You: 

The CSU system offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to meet you where you're at in life and typically adds 30–35% to your total compensation package. For more information on programs available, take a closer look at the Employee Benefits Summary: https://www.calstate.edu/csu-system/careers/benefits/Documents/employee-benefits-summary.pdf 

• Emphasis on maintaining a healthy work-life balance with ample PTO and flexibility, including up to 24 vacation days per year (based on employee group/services)  

• Enjoy vibrant campus life with access to athletic and recreation facilities, cultural performances, renowned speakers, and university events  

• Professional development opportunities, including tuition waivers for yourself, your spouse, registered domestic partner, or eligible dependent child across any of the 23 CSU campuses  

• Choice of two retirement plans: CalPERS Retirement Plan or a 403(b) Supplemental Retirement Plan  

• Comprehensive medical benefits designed to support employees throughout every stage of life  

• Pre-tax commuter benefits to help offset transportation costs  

 

Application Process  

Interested candidates should apply directly through the Cal State Fullerton careers website. Applicants will also submit an Inclusive Leadership Statement.  

Equal Employment Opportunity  

The California State University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer committed to nondiscrimination consistent with applicable federal and state law.  

Another Source works with their clients on a retained project basis. We are committed to building inclusive candidate pools as we partner with hiring teams. As you read through the job posting and review the list of qualifications (required and/or preferred), please do not self-select out if you feel you do not meet every qualification. No one is 100% qualified. We encourage you to apply and share your story with us. 

 

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