Director of Athletics

Lakeland University, an independent liberal arts institution located in east central Wisconsin, invites applicants from a diverse group of qualified candidates for the position of Director of Athletics.

The Director of Athletics provides administrative direction and oversight for all intercollegiate athletic programs at Lakeland University. Major responsibilities include supervision of coaches/staff, compliance with federal, university, Northern Athletics Collegiate Conference (NACC), and National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) rules and regulations, administering departmental budgets in a fiscally responsible manner, and developing a culture of academic success, sportsmanship, leadership, professionalism, and respect. The director will develop and implement fundraising efforts in support of athletic programs. The director must work with campus and community constituents to develop innovative and forward-thinking offerings to students at Lakeland University.

Duties and Responsibilities

Responsible for interpreting all rules and regulations of the NACC; policies and procedures of Lakeland University, the US Department of Education - Title IX; and the recruiting and transfer regulations of National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) division I, II, and III, ensuring that all program activities remain in complete compliance and are conducted with the highest standards of integrity and sportsmanship.

Develop and maintain close liaison with the sports community and university staff members including but not limited to the Director of Admissions, the Coordinator of Persistence Initiatives, the Dean of Students, and the faculty.

• Monitor the preparation of the Athletic Program budgets and present the budget requests to the Vice President for Advancement & University Relations and President's Cabinet. Responsible for fiscal control and accurate accountability of all funds. Present the budget to the Board of Trustees on an annual basis.
• Provide leadership and planning to ensure compliance with all federal, state, local laws, and university policies.
• Supervise field/gymnasium operations, security, and student employees.
• Screen and interview all coaches and assistant coaches and recommend contracts to the Vice President for Advancement & University Relations.
• In collaboration with the University Advancement team, lead efforts to develop and implement an active alumni and booster organization that supports the goals of improving community outreach and engagement.
• Administer policies regarding athletes and maintain an effective recruiting system for all sports.
• Monitor fund raising projects for each sport, including, but not limited to, acting as chair on fund raising projects in which all sports participate.
• Coordinate usage of athletic facilities by campus and outside organizations or interested parties.
• Update, revise, and implement all the necessary forms needed for eligibility to participate in the NACC or other program offerings.
• Attend Hall of Fame meetings as scheduled.
• Supervise and evaluate all full-time and part-time department staff including but not limited to sports information officer, assistant director, coaches, and student workers.
• Develop and implement an athletic strategic plan that includes a Title IX compliance plan, athletic facilities use plan, and a sports operation plan.
• Work closely with the academic support staff to monitor academic success and progress of student athletes.
• Develop and implement a student athletic leadership council.
• Serve on various university committees as assigned.
• Develop and implement a comprehensive athletic event marketing plan to increase fan participation.
• Any additional duties as assigned by the Vice President for Advancement & University Relations.

Responsibilities as related to NACC At the Conference Level:

• Ensure compliance with the NCAA Division III Manual by all athletic programs.
• Review eligibility at appropriate times.
• Support coaches with professional development opportunities such as attendance at appropriate clinics, conferences, seminars, and conventions.
• Serve on sports committees and when appointed.
• Keep the Commissioner of the NACC apprised of situations specifically affecting your institution regarding the possible addition or deletion of any athletic programs.
• Attend NACC and NCAA required meetings. At the University Level:
• Ensure the university maintains Title IX and Consumer Information Disclosure compliance.
• Develop athletic offerings that meet emerging student interests to broaden the array of opportunities for students.
• In collaboration with the coaches, develop and implement a summer camp schedule for appropriate sports to engage local youth.
• Assist university leadership with student conduct/behavioral matters involving student athletes.
• Ensure athletes participate in anti-hazing, Title IX and other required trainings.
• In collaboration with Facilities, develop and implement a field maintenance schedule.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college/university
• Full time experience working in athletic administration.
• Demonstrated experience in budget management, employee supervision, and fundraising.
• Knowledge of and experience managing Title IX compliance
• A demonstrated commitment to equity and inclusion.
• Communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong leadership and organizational abilities.
• Demonstrated experience with budget management.
• Able to work extended hours and be on call nights and weekends.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree
• Familiarity with NACC rules, regulations, and codes.
• Familiarity with intercollegiate admissions, recruitment, coaching, financial aid processes, and student retention.
• Knowledge and experience with athletic facilities upgrades, management, supervision, and maintenance.
• Understanding of best practices for attracting and retaining students to rural colleges/universities.
• Knowledge and experience in athletic fundraising.

Lakeland University does not offer H-1B or other work authorization visa sponsorship for this position. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of hire and maintain work authorization throughout the employment term. If you have questions regarding this, please contact Human Resources.

Lakeland University is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Educator.