Director of Athletics

Director of Athletics

Susquehanna University, a nationally recognized, student-centered residential liberal arts institution in Selinsgrove, Pennsylvania, invites inquiries, nominations, and applications for the position of director of athletics. This is an on-site leadership position with an anticipated start date of early 2027.

Susquehanna University is a nationally recognized residential liberal arts institution known for its personalized approach to education, close faculty-student relationships, and commitment to experiential learning, ranking No. 96 among national liberal arts colleges and No. 38 among Best Value Schools in the 2026 U.S. News & World Report rankings. The university enrolls approximately 2,200 undergraduates from 32 states and 30 countries and offers more than 100 majors and minors across four schools. Through faculty-guided research, internships, and its distinctive Global Opportunities program, which requires all students to participate in a study-away experience, Susquehanna prepares students for meaningful careers, leadership, and engaged global citizenship.

Reporting to the provost and dean of the faculty, the director of athletics provides strategic leadership and oversight for Susquehanna University’s intercollegiate athletics, club sports, and recreation programs. As a senior leader within Academic Affairs, the director oversees departmental operations, resource management, compliance, program development, and assessment while fostering a collaborative and accountable departmental culture. The director works closely with faculty and campus partners, including Student Life, Enrollment Management, Finance, Operations, University Communications and Marketing, and University Advancement, to strengthen student success, institutional enrollment, campus engagement, and external support for athletics. The director is responsible for 23 NCAA Division III varsity sports, more than 70 coaches and staff, approximately 600 student-athletes, and an operating budget of approximately $1.7 million. The director advances academic and athletic excellence, student-athlete well-being, and a holistic and equitable student experience, aligned with the university’s mission and strategic priorities.

For salary information, please contact Anne-Marie Kenney at mailto:amk@spelmanjohnson.com or Kelly Brooks at mailto:dkb@spelmanjohnson.com.

Qualifications

A bachelor’s degree and a minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in collegiate athletics administration are required; a master’s degree is preferred. The successful candidate must demonstrate experience in staff supervision, budget and facilities management, and athletics program development, assessment, and evaluation. Additional requirements include a comprehensive understanding of NCAA Division III athletics administration and compliance; a commitment to student-athlete development and success; an understanding of fundraising and its role in supporting strategic and operational priorities; and strong collaborative leadership, communication, and relationship-building skills. Demonstrated cultural competence and an appreciation for the identities and experiences of a diverse campus community, with a commitment to fostering engagement and belonging, are essential. Collegiate coaching experience is preferred.

Application and Nomination

Susquehanna University has selected Spelman Johnson, a leading executive search firm, to assist with leading this search. Priority review of applications will begin November 23, 2026, and continue until the position is filled. Submit a resume and cover letter via https://apptrkr.com/9927493

– Contact Anne-Marie Kenney at amk@spelmanjohnson.com for confidential inquiries.
– Applicants needing reasonable accommodation to participate in the application process should contact Spelman Johnson at 413-529-2895 or email info@spelmanjohnson.com.

Visit the Susquehanna University website at http://www.susqu.edu/

Susquehanna University is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.

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