Special Assistant to Director of Athletics for Major Gifts

UNC Asheville Overview:

Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains in Western North Carolina, UNC Asheville is the designated public liberal arts campus in the University of North Carolina system. UNC Asheville is nationally known for the quality of our student-centered teaching, mentoring of undergraduates in research, interdisciplinary learning, and striving to be an inclusive campus community.

UNC Asheville is committed to promoting diversity and a work environment that encourages knowledge of, respect for, and the ability to engage with those of other cultures or backgrounds. The successful candidate is expected to foster an inclusive work culture where uniqueness of beliefs, backgrounds, talents, capabilities and ways of living are respected and welcomed.

Position Summary:

The Special Assistant to the Director of Athletics has primary responsibility for major gifts fundraising to benefit the UNC Asheville’s Athletics Program. The SA for Major Gifts reports to the Director of Athletics.

This highly motivated athletics professional will develop and implement long and short-term plans specifically for major gifts ($25,000+) and will have a portfolio of at least 50 individuals. The SA for Major Gifts will develop and implement cultivation and solicitation strategics which include building, managing, and soliciting a portfolio of major gifts prospects and donors. Annual goals will include closing at least 8 – 10 major gifts.

The employee will be expected to work collaboratively and effectively with a wide variety of constituents. This position requires a high energy level, unquestioned integrity, and fiscal accountability. The SA for Major Gifts will be a front-facing ambassador for the University and its mission and the Athletics Department and will serve on the Director of Athletics Senior Leadership Team.

Required Education/Experience/Skills:

Bachelor’s degree required from a four-year accredited college or university, preferably in business, communications, or sport management.

Minimum of two to four years of experience in fundraising, sales or marketing, public relations, or advertising.

Preferred Education/Experience/Skills:

• The preferred candidate will have a Master’s degree and 4-6 years of fundraising experience. Preference for candidates with experience fundraising within higher education and at an NCAA institution.

• Experience working with student athletes, coaches, parents and a wide variety of constituents is preferred. Ability to work independently and handle multiple tasks is ideal.

• Strong knowledge of the development field and fundraising techniques.

• Strong interpersonal and written communication skills.

• Ability and willingness to travel and work flexible hours including nights and weekends.

• Familiarity with donor record-keeping database (Raiser’s Edge NXT preferred) and experience with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, etc.).

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Demonstrated effective communication and people skills.

• Ability to articulate the importance of a public liberal arts and science education and the role of athletics in developing champions in athletics and leaders in life and connect donor interests to university priorities.

• Ability to work independently or as a member of a team in a complex organization.

• Ability to build meaningful relationships with a wide range of people and motivate volunteers and donors to build consensus and reach goals.

• Ability to set strategic goals while implementing fundraising principles and tactics.

• Demonstrated ability to think and act strategically.

• Ambitious spirit with ability to collaborate to maximize effectiveness.

• Ability to approach challenges creatively.

• Proficient in Raiser’s Edge

Special Instructions to the Applicant:

Applications must be submitted online no later than 11:59 p.m. (EST) on the closing date for each specific position. Please note that any documents submitted to Human Resources or the hiring departments become property of UNC Asheville and will not be returned.

Official verification from each college/university you have attended are required upon employment, and will be requested directly from the college/university by Human Resources or from the National Student Clearinghouse. Any expense will be the responsibility of the employee. Educational degrees must be from an appropriately accredited institution.

If no applicants apply who meet the required competency and training and experience requirements, management may consider other applicants. Salary would be determined based on competencies, equity, budget, and market considerations.

It is the policy of UNC Asheville to conduct pre-employment background investigations on all candidates selected for employment. If hired, the candidate will be required to submit proof of eligibility to work in the United States. New employees are paid only by direct deposit to the financial institution of their choice.

Posting Date: 02/06/2026

Closing Date: 03/20/2026

Recruitment Range: $55,000-$60,000