Director of Athletics

Santa Clara, CA, United States

About Santa Clara University Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, Santa Clara University (SCU) was founded in 1851 by the Society of Jesus (Jesuits). SCU is California’s oldest operating institution of higher learning and one of the oldest Catholic universities in the American West. SCU currently ranks in the top 5 Best Catholic Universities in the United States. As a Jesuit institution, SCU emphasizes a holistic approach to education that integrates intellectual, ethical, and spiritual development. The University's mission is rooted in the Jesuit tradition of social justice, service to others, and the pursuit of knowledge for the greater good.

SCU offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs for almost 10,000 students through six colleges: the College of Arts and Sciences, the Leavey School of Business, the School of Education and Counseling Psychology, the School of Engineering, the Jesuit School of Theology, and the School of Law. SCU boasts a diverse and accomplished alumni network, including leaders in business, technology, law, education, and other fields. Alumni actively support the University through mentorship, philanthropy, and advocacy.

About SCU Athletics

Known as the Broncos, and heavily supported by the Ruff Riders, the Official Student Section of the Santa Clara Broncos, SCU competes in 18 varsity sports programs at the NCAA Division I level. As members of the West Coast Conference, student-athletes have been able to showcase their talents and excellence on the national stage. Over the years, SCU Athletics has produced numerous successful student-athletes who have gone on to compete at the professional level in various sports. The University takes pride in its commitment to both athletic excellence and academic achievement among its student-athletes.

This commitment has led to state-of-the-art facilities at SCU and the following have been recently built or renovated: Schott Athletic Excellence Center (academics, sport medicine, sports performance, nutrition), Leavey Center (basketball and volleyball), Stephen Schott Stadium (baseball), Sullivan Aquatic Center (water polo), and Stevens Stadium (soccer). These facilities have helped SCU student-athletes prepare and compete at a championship level with many teams and individuals enjoying recent success and reaching postseason play: Women’s Soccer (2020 National Champions, 2021 National Semifinalist, 2023, 2024), Baseball (2023), Men’s Basketball (2022 & 2023), Women’s Basketball (2024), Men’s Cross Country (2022 & 2023), Women’s Cross Country (2022 & 2023), Men’s Soccer (2021) Men’s Tennis (2024), Men’s Track & Field (2023 & 2024), Women’s Track & Field (2024), and Men’s Rowing (2023 & 2024)

Position Summary

The Director of Athletics serves as the administrative leader responsible for the overall management and strategic direction of the athletic department at SCU. Reporting directly to the President, the Director of Athletics oversees all aspects of intercollegiate athletics, including but not limited to personnel management, budgeting, facility oversight, compliance with NCAA, WCC, state and University rules and regulations, and fostering a culture of academic and athletic excellence.

Duties & Responsibilities:

1. Leadership and Vision:

• Develop and articulate a comprehensive vision and strategic plan for the athletics department in alignment with the university's mission and values.

• Provide strong leadership to coaches, staff, and student-athletes, fostering a culture of inclusivity, collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement.

• Represent the athletics department on the President’s Cabinet, with the Board of Trustees, and in university-wide initiatives. Serve as a key advisor to the President and other senior administrators.

2. Operational Management:

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the athletics department, including budget management, fundraising, facilities management, and compliance with NCAA, WCC and University policies and procedures, regarding recruitment, eligibility, academic standards, and ethical conduct.

• Ensure the effective recruitment, hiring, and retention of high-quality coaches and staff members who are committed to the mission of the university and the success of student-athletes.

• Collaborate with the Provost and Student Life Division to support the academic success, personal development, and overall well-being of student-athletes.

3. Fundraising and External Relations:

• Develop and execute a comprehensive fundraising strategy to secure philanthropic support for athletics programs, facilities, and scholarships.

• Cultivate strong relationships with alumni, donors, corporate partners, and community stakeholders to enhance the visibility and reputation of SCU athletics.

• Serve as a passionate advocate for the athletics department, promoting its achievements and contributions to the university community and beyond.

4. Compliance and Integrity:

• Foster a culture of integrity, sportsmanship, and ethical behavior among student-athletes, coaches, and staff members, emphasizing the importance of character development and social responsibility.

Application Process:

Santa Clara University invites nominations or expressions of interest to be submitted to the search firm assisting the University. Applications must include a cover letter, resume or curriculum vitae, and list of references. For full consideration, application materials should be submitted to Santa Clara University’s website by July 1, 2024. Confidential review of materials will begin immediately and continue until the appointment is made.

For additional information, please contact:

Daniel Parker, Vice President and Managing Director

Grant Higgison, Principal

Xavier Harper, Executive Recruiting Coordinator

[email protected] | [email protected]

Parker Executive Search

770-804-1996 ext. 118 | 770-804-1996 ext. 123

Santa Clara University is an equal opportunity/equal access/affirmative action employer fully committed to achieving a diverse workforce and complies with all Federal and California State laws, regulations, and executive orders regarding non-discrimination and affirmative action. Applications from members of historically underrepresented groups are especially encouraged. For a complete copy of Santa Clara University’s equal opportunity and nondiscrimination policies, see https://www.scu.edu/title-ix/policies-reports/

Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree preferred.

Minimum of 7-10 years of progressively responsible experience in athletics administration, preferably at the NCAA Division I level.

Demonstrated track record of effective leadership, strategic planning, and organizational management.

Commitment to the holistic development of student-athletes and the values of equity, diversity, and inclusion.

Strong knowledge of NCAA rules and regulations, as well as best practices in collegiate athletics administration.

Excellent interpersonal, communication, and relationship-building skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders.

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