Deputy Director of Athletics/Internal Affairs & Chief Financial Officer

NORTHWESTERN ATHLETICS AND RECREATION

Northwestern University is a founding member of the Big Ten Conference. The Department of Athletics and Recreation has over 220 full-time employees, supplemented with a large number of part-time and temporary staff, as well as student personnel. There currently are over 485 student-athletes representing 19 varsity sports. The most recent year had the student-athletes with an average GPA of 3.32 with 232 of them earning the distinction of Academic All-Big Ten and an NCAA graduation rate of 97%. In addition, over 1200 students participate in club sports offered within Recreation.

THE POSITION

Reporting to the Vice President of Athletics and Recreation, who reports to the University’s President, the Deputy Director of Athletics/Internal Affairs & Chief Financial Officer plays an integral role in leading key operations for the organization. The Deputy Director serves as a member of the Vice President’s executive staff and provides strategic leadership and vision to support staff operations while setting high standards and ethical business practices. The Deputy Director oversees a large, diverse portfolio including the overall management of the athletic business office which includes all business operations, finance and budgeting, human resources, payroll and benefits, risk management, travel, accounts payable, procurement, computing services, logistics and coordination for post-season (bowl games) football operations.

The Deputy Director will provide oversight to all business services and work closely with the Associate Director of Athletics/Business to ensure fiscally responsible operations as a result of sound budget management practices, budget to actual performance analysis, auditing processes and fiscal integrity across financial-related matters (e.g., compensation, revenue, travel, gifts, among others). The Deputy Director will ensure alignment to and compliance with University policies and procedures. The Deputy Director will ensure applicable technology is contemporary, relevant, value-added and efficient.

In addition, the Deputy Director has accountability for fiscal oversight of the Athletic Ticket Office and audit functions, ensuring fiscally responsible use of the Athletics and Recreation’s financial resources and processes that drive overall profitability that adhere to applicable federal, state, and conference laws and regulations. The Deputy Director will drive excellence in staff operations which will contribute to building an environment that provides a world-class enrichment and experience for student-athletes. The Deputy Director will maintain strong, positive working relationships with University leaders, key stakeholders, donors and serve as a key resource of information and coordination for Department of Athletics and Recreation initiatives and events.

The Deputy Director will provide oversight to all key functions throughout the life cycle of staff including recruitment, onboarding, performance management, employment contracts, compensation, retention, development and off-boarding. The Deputy Director will liaise with contracted food service providers for concessionaire, special events, and training table among others while negotiating lowest costs and high quality food and amenities. The Deputy Director will ensure all University and Athletic and Recreations policies are updated and communicated broadly. The Deputy Director will work closely with the Vice President on special assignments and projects as assigned as needed.

The Deputy Director is responsible for coordinating football scheduling with the Vice President of Athletics and the Head Football Coach. In addition, the Deputy Director handles all football game negotiations and contract development.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree required
• Master’s degree, preferably in business, finance, sport management, or a similar field; or an equivalent combination of experience and education may be substituted for a Master’s degree
• Ten (10) years senior level experience managing a college, university, conference, or professional athletic business office at the Division 1 level preferred
• Knowledge of NCAA Division 1 intercollegiate athletics
• Knowledge of NCAA and conference guidelines, policies, rule and regulations
• Knowledge of University policies and procedures pertaining to procurement and fiscal matters
• Ability to manage multiple tasks for extended period of time
• Keen sense of urgency and ability to keep pace in a fast moving environment and culture
• Demonstrated interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of stakeholders
• Demonstrated ability to maintain and develop relationships with executives, board members, student-athletes, sponsors, fans, donors, the broader University community
• Ability to identify, attract and retain talent

As per Northwestern University policy, this position requires a criminal background check. Successful applicants will need to submit to a criminal background check prior to employment.

Northwestern University is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action Employer of all protected classes, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, individuals with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply. Hiring is contingent upon eligibility to work in the United States.