Senior Associate Director of Athletics (52757)

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Senior Associate Director of Athletics serves as a member of the department’s executive leadership team and provides strategic oversight for internal operations and student-athlete affairs. This position plays a critical role in aligning the student-athlete experience with the University’s mission and NCAA Division II standards. The Senior Associate will supervise and coordinate key departmental functions, including student-athlete development, compliance support, academic support initiatives, community engagement, crisis management, and event operations. This role serves as the primary liaison to various campus offices, providing collaborative leadership in support of student success and departmental growth.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Internal Operations & Administration

• Partner with the Director of Athletics in the overall management of the athletics department.
• Provide leadership for departmental operations, including coordination of team travel, procurement, vendor relations, and centralized transportation/lodging.
• Serve as liaison for financial aid reporting and NCAA squad list certifications; support budgetary and purchasing processes including credit card management and reconciliation.
• Assist with game day operations and special events coordination, ensuring a student-centered and compliance-focused environment.

Student-Athlete Affairs

• Serve as the department’s lead for student-athlete development and welfare.
• Facilitate holistic support plans for student-athletes facing academic or personal challenges, offering frequent engagement and tracking progress.
• Act as primary liaison to the Division of Student Development and Services, working closely on matters related to Title IX, conduct, and inclusion.
• Support NCAA compliance and equity reporting through timely communication of student-athlete concerns.

SAAC Advisor & Community Engagement

• Serve as the advisor for the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC), infusing energy, leadership, and purpose into the group’s initiatives.
• Coordinate student-led community service events and partnerships with outside organizations

Leadership & Campus Collaboration

• Represent the Department of Athletics on key University committees, promoting cross-functional collaboration and institutional alignment.
• Cultivate strong relationships across campus to enhance the visibility and support of athletics programs.
• Serve as the liaison to campus marketing teams, including support for social media and branding efforts; contribute to the department’s promotional engagement.

Professional Development & Representation

• Engage in continuous professional
• Represent Claflin University and the CIAA at regional and national conferences, cultivating visibility and best-practice knowledge sharing.
• Contribute to recruitment, retention, and mentorship of future athletics administrators, especially women and minorities.

• Bachelor’s degree; Master’s degree preferred (e.g., Sport Administration, Higher Education, or Business).
• Collegiate athletics/academic/student affairs administration experience.
• Strong knowledge of NCAA rules, student development principles, and intercollegiat