Associate Vice President, Director of Athletics

Associate Vice President, Director of Athletics

Denison University, a fully residential university in Granville, Ohio, invites inquiries, nominations, and applications for its associate vice president, director of athletics. This is an on-site leadership role.

Founded in 1831, Denison University is a recognized leader among American liberal arts colleges. A non-sectarian institution independent of any denominational affiliation since the 1960s, Denison actively seeks outstanding students from across the country and around the world. Denison offers a rich and deep education in the natural sciences, humanities, social sciences, fine arts, and interdisciplinary studies, as well as extraordinary campus leadership opportunities aimed at preparing graduates who will make a difference in their communities, their country, and the world. Ninety-nine percent of Denison’s 2,400 students live on campus. The campus overlooks picturesque Granville, Ohio, and the surrounding Welsh Hills.

The associate vice president and director of athletics (AVP/AD) oversees all aspects of Denison University’s NCAA Division III athletic program, campus recreation, and physical education, including staff supervision, development and oversight of budgets, and facility operations. Reporting to the president, with matrixed reporting to the provost for purposes of coaches with faculty appointments, and the vice president for student life with a focus on the student experience, the AVP/AD provides a clear vision of the role and mission of athletics and demonstrates leadership and management that foster excellence across the division. The AVP/AD will be responsible for cultivating a departmental culture rooted in integrity and a commitment to the holistic development of student-athletes. The AVP/AD and their staff set the tone for how student-athletes embody Denison’s values in competition and the broader community. The AVP/AD will oversee a department of 26 intercollegiate sports, 100 full-time and part-time coaches and staff, approximately 650 student-athletes, 350 student employees, and a $2.4 million operating budget, not including endowed funds. The AVP/AD is a member of the president’s senior staff.

The expected salary for this role is $190,000, with final compensation commensurate with experience and qualifications.

Qualifications

A master’s degree and significant, progressive leadership experience in collegiate athletics administration is required; coaching experience is strongly preferred. The successful candidate will possess a comprehensive understanding of intercollegiate athletics administration, student-athlete development, facilities management and resourcing, NCAA and Title IX compliance within a Division III environment, and the role of fundraising in supporting strategic and operational objectives.

Application and Nomination

Denison University has selected Spelman Johnson, a leading executive search firm, to assist with leading this search. Review of applications will begin March 27, 2025, and continue until the position is filled. Submit a resume and cover letter via https://apptrkr.com/6050735

• Contact Kelly Brooks at dkb@spelmanjohnson.com or 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 Denison University website at https://denison.edu/

Denison University does not discriminate in its educational programs and activities on the basis of race, color, religion, ethnic or national origin, age, disability, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other basis prohibited by law.