Director of Philanthropy, Athletics in Melbourne, FL for Florida Tech
Florida Institute of Technology is seeking a Director of Philanthropy for Athletics in Melbourne, Florida, according to a June 21, 2026, job posting. The full-time role focuses on securing major gifts of $25,000 or more and managing corporate sponsorships to support Panther Athletics’ scholarships, capital projects, and endowments.
What are the primary goals for the Director of Philanthropy?
The position serves as a frontline fundraising professional tasked with managing a portfolio of major gift prospects and corporate sponsors. According to the job description, the role requires the identification, qualification, and stewardship of donors and alumni with an affinity for athletics.
Key objectives include developing strategic fundraising plans to secure gifts of $25,000 and above. These funds are intended for endowments, capital projects, and scholar-athlete scholarships, the university states.
The role reports to the VP of Philanthropy and maintains a functional reporting relationship to the Director of Athletics. It involves extensive travel and participation in on- and off-campus events to strengthen prospect relationships.
How does this role impact Florida Tech Panther Athletics?
The Director of Philanthropy acts as the primary liaison for external corporate entities to drive sponsorship revenue. This includes drafting sponsorship agreements for marketing and promotional benefits and closing multi-year partnerships, according to the posting.
A critical component of the role is ensuring all corporate partnerships comply with University, Sunshine State Conference (SSC), and NCAA regulations. The university specifically notes the importance of compliance regarding the use of scholar-athlete name, image, and likeness (NIL).
The university, a member of NCAA Division II, sponsors 15 intercollegiate sports. It has won four national titles, including the 2025 Women’s Soccer championship and the 2019 Women’s Golf title, as noted in the university’s records.
What are the requirements and compliance standards for the position?
Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree in fields such as Business, Communications, Psychology, or Nonprofit Management, according to the requirements. A master’s degree and previous experience in front-line fundraising or corporate relations are preferred.
The role carries significant regulatory responsibilities. The university defines the position as a Campus Security Authority (CSA) under the Clery Act and a Responsible Employee under Title IX, requiring the reporting of crime statistics and sexual misconduct.
Administrative duties include using the Raiser’s Edge CRM to maintain records of donor interactions and gift agreements. The successful candidate may be expected to collaborate with coaches and the university advancement team to align fundraising with institutional goals.
What may happen next for the athletics department?
The appointment of a new Director of Philanthropy could lead to an increase in targeted corporate partnerships across local and national markets. This may result in expanded funding for the 15 sponsored sports programs.
A possible next step for the department is the implementation of new capital projects or the growth of scholar-athlete endowments, provided the new hire successfully secures the targeted major gifts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum gift amount the Director of Philanthropy targets?
The role focuses on securing major gifts of $25,000 and above.
Which athletic conference does Florida Tech belong to?
Florida Tech is a member of the NCAA Division II and the Sunshine State Conference (SSC).
What software is used to track donor and partner interactions?
The university uses Advancement’s Raiser’s Edge CRM.
How do you think increased corporate sponsorship affects the balance of collegiate athletics?