Associate Athletics Director for Finance and Business Operations

Position Description

Read on to fully understand what this job requires in terms of skills and experience If you are a good match, make an application.

Seattle University seeks a highly motivated financial professional with proven experience and a track record of success to serve as the Associate Director of Athletics for Finance & Business Operations. Reporting directly to the Deputy Athletics Director, this key role leads financial operations for one of the University’s most dynamic and exciting areas. The position provides the opportunity to work closely with the Athletics leadership team, including the Vice President for Athletics, while also collaborating with University finance leaders such as the Controller, Director of Financial Planning and Analysis, and CFO.

Responsibilities

• Budget Management : Oversee the financial administration and operations of the Athletics department, ensuring compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), university policies, and NCAA requirements. Prepare and manage annual budgets, including revenue projections, in collaboration with the Vice President for Athletics and the Deputy Athletics Director. Perform financial analysis, including cost modeling, spending trends, budget forecasts, and cost / benefit analyses to support both short- and long-term departmental financial plans.
• Financial Reporting and Compliance : Prepare annual year-end financial statements and federal / NCAA reports (e.g., EADA, Membership Financial Reporting System). Manage the monthly and fiscal year-end accounting closing process, including account analysis and reconciliations. Develop and implement fiscal policies and procedures to ensure operational efficiency and NCAA compliance.
• Strategic Financial Planning : Provide strategic budgetary recommendations and projections, including those related to NCAA dashboard indicators. Challenge assumptions, strategies, and initiatives to ensure optimal fiscal stewardship and resource allocation. Monitor and analyze revenue streams (e.g., fundraising, ticket sales, corporate partnerships, licensing, camps, facilities, NCAA / WAC grants).
• Collaboration and Communication : Serve as the primary liaison between financial units and Athletics, presenting financial information to university leadership and the board of trustees as needed. Collaborate with campus units such as the Controller’s Office, Accounts Payable, University Budget Office, Public Safety, and Human Resources. Represent Athletics on various campus committees and coordinate projects and events with campus partners.
• Procurement and Vendor Management : Oversee procurement processes, vendor agreements, and related contracts for travel, apparel, food services, equipment, and facilities. Ensure adherence to university procurement policies and manage major purchases and inventory.
• Postseason and Student-Athlete Support : Forecast and manage postseason budgets and serve as a liaison with the NCAA for postseason travel logistics. Collaborate with compliance and financial aid staff to ensure proper budgetary management of Athletics Financial Aid, including housing, board, and books. Oversee student-athlete meals during preseason and between academic terms.
• Risk Management and Systems Control : Establish and maintain accounting systems, processes, and controls to safeguard university assets and mitigate risks, particularly in travel, credit card use, equipment, and cash handling. Prepare and maintain databases for tracking budgets, endowed funds, and gift accounts, providing monthly reports to the Athletics Director.
• Facility and Equipment Oversight : Manage facility and equipment leases, ensuring proper maintenance and use.

Qualifications

Preferred Qualifications

All employees must adhere to NCAA, conference, and university rules, report any suspected violations, and fully cooperate with investigations.

This position plays a critical role in ensuring the Athletics department's financial health, compliance, and alignment with university goals and values.

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