Director of Athletics
Application
Details
Director of Athletics
Simpson College
Location: Indianola, IA
Open Date: Jan 28, 2026
Description
Simpson College and Storm Athletics
Simpson College is a four-year private college of the liberal arts and sciences affiliated with the United Methodist Church. Located just 12 miles south of Des Moines, the capital of Iowa, Simpson's picturesque 75-acre campus in Indianola is home to more than 1,200 full-time undergraduate students with an additional 100 students enrolled in online and graduate programs. The College has a strong academic reputation and is a highly relational student-centric institution, placing significant value on high-impact and co-curricular learning. Simpson is Iowa's top-ranked private college and #5 overall in the recently released 2026 U.S. News & World Report Regional Midwest rankings. Simpson is also #1 in Iowa for "Best Value" while also earning a #4 overall ranking for the Midwest.
Over the past five years, Storm athletics has seen competitive success, strategic growth and notable facility improvements. Approximately 60 percent of current undergraduate students are athletes, participating in 24 NCAA Division III programs, two spirit teams (cheer and dance), and two club sports (shooting sports and men's volleyball). In 2021, the college added men's and women's gymnastics as well as women's wrestling. Storm teams have reached NCAA Division III appearances by women's basketball (2022), women's soccer (2023, 2024), softball (2025), and an individual champion in track and field (2024). Recent facility upgrades include new turf and track at Buxton Stadium, new infield turf for softball and baseball, numerous enhancements to Cowles Fieldhouse, resurfaced tennis courts, and in January 2026, completion of the Fiterman Training Facility for gymnastics.
The City of Indianola is home to Simpson and is a flourishing, collaborative, and growing community of 16,000 people. It has a charming, central town square with thriving restaurants and coffee shops. Greater Des Moines serves as the government, commercial, cultural, and recreational hub for the state of Iowa. Des Moines prides itself on its vibrant economy, world-class amenities, friendly communities, short commutes, affordable housing, excellent education system, and high-quality health care.
Position Summary
The Director of Athletics provides strategic leadership, vision and oversight for Simpson College's athletics program. Reporting to the president and serving as a member of Cabinet, the Director of Athletics fosters an environment focusing on the holistic development, academic and personal success, and competitive excellence of student athletes. The Director leads all athletic operations, including budget management, compliance with conference and NCAA Division III regulations, recruitment and development of personnel, and facilities. In addition, the Director collaborates with multiple departments to meet student-athlete recruitment and retention goals; demonstrates a commitment to the student-athlete experience; and serves as the face of Storm athletics to cultivate alumni and donor engagement.
Key Responsibilities
Create an environment where all student-athletes and staff feel respected, supported and valued. Recruit, hire, mentor, motivate, supervise, and evaluate all full and part-time department employees. Meet often with staff to plan and coordinate events, assign and evaluate projects, and resolve problems. Assess the athletics program regularly to maintain and enhance competitiveness, identify innovative initiatives, ensure continual improvement, and develop and maximize the student athlete experience. Ensure successful recruitment of prospective student-athletes by working with Enrollment to monitor recruitment and roster goals of all coaches and support them in achieving those goals. Communicate regularly with key campus personnel and collaborate with campus offices to plan, problem-solve, and promote the student-athlete experience. Collaborate with college stakeholders to foster academic success for student-athletes. Effectively allocate available resources to support goals and objectives. Develop, implement, and monitor the annual operating budget. Assess and recommend athletic facility improvements. Serve as the face of athletics in fundraising activities, supporting Advancement staff in all philanthropic activities involving athletics including increasing alumni engagement, fostering donor relationships, and securing and sustaining sponsorships from businesses and individuals. Strengthen school spirit and community pride at athletic events. Build strong relationships with students, faculty, staff, alumni, donors, and community partners and advance the visibility and long-term success of Storm athletics. Develop and implement operating policies, procedures, and initiatives that build and maintain healthy, competitive athletic programs; support NCAA and conference rules; and promote good sportsmanship. Supervise all regular department operations associated with scheduling, athletic performance, sports information, team travel, equipment purchasing and maintenance, and facility and event management. Represent Simpson College at NCAA and conference meetings. Represent and promote the athletic program to alumni, parents, prospective and current student-athletes, and at various public relations and fundraising functions. Manage appropriate department records systems. Prepare a variety of administrative and management reports including EADA and various NCAA documents. Keep abreast of current developments in higher education athletics programs, including athletic association regulations and guidelines, and ensure Simpson College's compliance with the latter.
Qualifications
Bachelor's degree required, advanced degree in athletics administration, sports management, or a related field preferred. At least six years of successful senior-level leadership in athletics administration at the NCAA Division III level (preferred) including personnel management, student-athlete recruitment and retention, budget management, compliance, operations, and policy development. Experience in coaching at the college level preferred. Personal commitment to, and knowledge of, the NCAA Division III philosophy. Demonstrated commitment to creating environments where all student-athletes and staff feel respected, supported and valued. Documented success in fundraising and commitment to the development of alumni and donor relationships. Knowledge of technology related to college athletic programs and program management. Effective interpersonal skills, including the ability to communicate with a diverse group of internal and external stakeholders. The ability to work nights and weekends to fully participate in athletics, recruiting, and college-wide programs and events.
Application Instructions
To apply, provide the following:
Letter of application Current resume/curriculum vitae (CV) Names and telephone numbers/e-mail addresses of three references
Review of applications will begin immediately. Apply by February 20 to receive priority consideration.
Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States at the time of hire. At this time, we are not able to employ individuals who require sponsorship for current or future employment authorization.
For more information and to apply, visit https://apply.interfolio.com/180794
NOTICE OF NONDISCRIMINATION: Applicants for admission and employment, students, parents of students, employees, sources of referral for admission and employment, and all unions or professional organizations holding collective bargaining or professional agreements with Simpson College are hereby notified that this institution does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, creed, religion, disability, genetic information, veteran or veteran disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other legally protected characteristic in admission, access to, treatment or employment in, its programs and activities. Any persons having inquiries concerning Simpson College's compliance with the regulations implementing Title VI, Title VII, Title IX - Section 504, or Americans with Disabilities Act are directed to contact Director of Human Resources, Simpson College, 701 North C Street, Indianola, Iowa 50125-1299, (515) 961-1511. Persons may also contact the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, U.S. Department of Education, regarding the institution's compliance with the regulations implementing Title VI, Title VII, Title IX - Section 504, or Americans with Disabilities Act.
TITLE IX: Simpson College does not discriminate in its employment practices or in its educational programs or activities on the basis of sex/gender. Simpson College also prohibits retaliation against any person opposing discrimination or participating in any discrimination investigation or complaint process internally or externally. Reports of misconduct, questions regarding Title IX, and concerns about non-compliance should be directed to the Title IX Coordinator. For a complete copy of the policy, more information, or to report an instance of sex or gender-based discrimination, please contact the Title IX Coordinator (titleix@simpson.edu) and/or the Assistant Secretary of Education within the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/complaintintro.html.
The College is committed to providing a safe and productive learning and living community. To achieve that goal, we conduct background investigations for all candidates being considered for employment. Background checks may include but are not limited to criminal history, national sex offender search, and motor vehicle history. Simpson's annual security compliance document is available on the Simpson Security website. To comply with the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, you will be required to, upon being made an offer of employment, produce documents that are specified by the federal government to establish your identity and right to work in the United States. These documents must be produced no later than seventy-two (72) hours after beginning paid employment. Questions? Contact the Human Resources department at employment@simpson.edu
SIMPSON COLLEGE PROMOTES A CLEAR AIR LEARNING AND WORKING ENVIRONMENT. SMOKING IS PROHIBITED ON COLLEGE PROPERTY.
Posted: 30-Jan-26
Location: Indianola, Iowa
Type: Full-time
Categories:
Executive Executive - Athletics DirectorSector:
Collegiate SportsInternal Number: 6890144
Director of Athletics
Simpson College
Location: Indianola, IA
Open Date: Jan 28, 2026
Description
Simpson College and Storm Athletics
Simpson College is a four-year private college of the liberal arts and sciences affiliated with the United Methodist Church. Located just 12 miles south of Des Moines, the capital of Iowa, Simpson's picturesque 75-acre campus in Indianola is home to more than 1,200 full-time undergraduate students with an additional 100 students enrolled in online and graduate programs. The College has a strong academic reputation and is a highly relational student-centric institution, placing significant value on high-impact and co-curricular learning. Simpson is Iowa's top-ranked private college and #5 overall in the recently released 2026 U.S. News & World Report Regional Midwest rankings. Simpson is also #1 in Iowa for "Best Value" while also earning a #4 overall ranking for the Midwest.
Over the past five years, Storm athletics has seen competitive success, strategic growth and notable facility improvements. Approximately 60 percent of current undergraduate students are athletes, participating in 24 NCAA Division III programs, two spirit teams (cheer and dance), and two club sports (shooting sports and men's volleyball). In 2021, the college added men's and women's gymnastics as well as women's wrestling. Storm teams have reached NCAA Division III appearances by women's basketball (2022), women's soccer (2023, 2024), softball (2025), and an individual champion in track and field (2024). Recent facility upgrades include new turf and track at Buxton Stadium, new infield turf for softball and baseball, numerous enhancements to Cowles Fieldhouse, resurfaced tennis courts, and in January 2026, completion of the Fiterman Training Facility for gymnastics.
The City of Indianola is home to Simpson and is a flourishing, collaborative, and growing community of 16,000 people. It has a charming, central town square with thriving restaurants and coffee shops. Greater Des Moines serves as the government, commercial, cultural, and recreational hub for the state of Iowa. Des Moines prides itself on its vibrant economy, world-class amenities, friendly communities, short commutes, affordable housing, excellent education system, and high-quality health care.
Position Summary
The Director of Athletics provides strategic leadership, vision and oversight for Simpson College's athletics program. Reporting to the president and serving as a member of Cabinet, the Director of Athletics fosters an environment focusing on the holistic development, academic and personal success, and competitive excellence of student athletes. The Director leads all athletic operations, including budget management, compliance with conference and NCAA Division III regulations, recruitment and development of personnel, and facilities. In addition, the Director collaborates with multiple departments to meet student-athlete recruitment and retention goals; demonstrates a commitment to the student-athlete experience; and serves as the face of Storm athletics to cultivate alumni and donor engagement.
Key Responsibilities
Create an environment where all student-athletes and staff feel respected, supported and valued. Recruit, hire, mentor, motivate, supervise, and evaluate all full and part-time department employees. Meet often with staff to plan and coordinate events, assign and evaluate projects, and resolve problems. Assess the athletics program regularly to maintain and enhance competitiveness, identify innovative initiatives, ensure continual improvement, and develop and maximize the student athlete experience. Ensure successful recruitment of prospective student-athletes by working with Enrollment to monitor recruitment and roster goals of all coaches and support them in achieving those goals. Communicate regularly with key campus personnel and collaborate with campus offices to plan, problem-solve, and promote the student-athlete experience. Collaborate with college stakeholders to foster academic success for student-athletes. Effectively allocate available resources to support goals and objectives. Develop, implement, and monitor the annual operating budget. Assess and recommend athletic facility improvements. Serve as the face of athletics in fundraising activities, supporting Advancement staff in all philanthropic activities involving athletics including increasing alumni engagement, fostering donor relationships, and securing and sustaining sponsorships from businesses and individuals. Strengthen school spirit and community pride at athletic events. Build strong relationships with students, faculty, staff, alumni, donors, and community partners and advance the visibility and long-term success of Storm athletics. Develop and implement operating policies, procedures, and initiatives that build and maintain healthy, competitive athletic programs; support NCAA and conference rules; and promote good sportsmanship. Supervise all regular department operations associated with scheduling, athletic performance, sports information, team travel, equipment purchasing and maintenance, and facility and event management. Represent Simpson College at NCAA and conference meetings. Represent and promote the athletic program to alumni, parents, prospective and current student-athletes, and at various public relations and fundraising functions. Manage appropriate department records systems. Prepare a variety of administrative and management reports including EADA and various NCAA documents. Keep abreast of current developments in higher education athletics programs, including athletic association regulations and guidelines, and ensure Simpson College's compliance with the latter.
Qualifications
Bachelor's degree required, advanced degree in athletics administration, sports management, or a related field preferred. At least six years of successful senior-level leadership in athletics administration at the NCAA Division III level (preferred) including personnel management, student-athlete recruitment and retention, budget management, compliance, operations, and policy development. Experience in coaching at the college level preferred. Personal commitment to, and knowledge of, the NCAA Division III philosophy. Demonstrated commitment to creating environments where all student-athletes and staff feel respected, supported and valued. Documented success in fundraising and commitment to the development of alumni and donor relationships. Knowledge of technology related to college athletic programs and program management. Effective interpersonal skills, including the ability to communicate with a diverse group of internal and external stakeholders. The ability to work nights and weekends to fully participate in athletics, recruiting, and college-wide programs and events.
Application Instructions
To apply, provide the following:
Letter of application Current resume/curriculum vitae (CV) Names and telephone numbers/e-mail addresses of three references
Review of applications will begin immediately. Apply by February 20 to receive priority consideration.
Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States at the time of hire. At this time, we are not able to employ individuals who require sponsorship for current or future employment authorization.
For more information and to apply, visit https://apply.interfolio.com/180794
NOTICE OF NONDISCRIMINATION: Applicants for admission and employment, students, parents of students, employees, sources of referral for admission and employment, and all unions or professional organizations holding collective bargaining or professional agreements with Simpson College are hereby notified that this institution does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, creed, religion, disability, genetic information, veteran or veteran disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other legally protected characteristic in admission, access to, treatment or employment in, its programs and activities. Any persons having inquiries concerning Simpson College's compliance with the regulations implementing Title VI, Title VII, Title IX - Section 504, or Americans with Disabilities Act are directed to contact Director of Human Resources, Simpson College, 701 North C Street, Indianola, Iowa 50125-1299, (515) 961-1511. Persons may also contact the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, U.S. Department of Education, regarding the institution's compliance with the regulations implementing Title VI, Title VII, Title IX - Section 504, or Americans with Disabilities Act.
TITLE IX: Simpson College does not discriminate in its employment practices or in its educational programs or activities on the basis of sex/gender. Simpson College also prohibits retaliation against any person opposing discrimination or participating in any discrimination investigation or complaint process internally or externally. Reports of misconduct, questions regarding Title IX, and concerns about non-compliance should be directed to the Title IX Coordinator. For a complete copy of the policy, more information, or to report an instance of sex or gender-based discrimination, please contact the Title IX Coordinator (titleix@simpson.edu) and/or the Assistant Secretary of Education within the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/complaintintro.html.
The College is committed to providing a safe and productive learning and living community. To achieve that goal, we conduct background investigations for all candidates being considered for employment. Background checks may include but are not limited to criminal history, national sex offender search, and motor vehicle history. Simpson's annual security compliance document is available on the Simpson Security website. To comply with the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, you will be required to, upon being made an offer of employment, produce documents that are specified by the federal government to establish your identity and right to work in the United States. These documents must be produced no later than seventy-two (72) hours after beginning paid employment. Questions? Contact the Human Resources department at employment@simpson.edu
SIMPSON COLLEGE PROMOTES A CLEAR AIR LEARNING AND WORKING ENVIRONMENT. SMOKING IS PROHIBITED ON COLLEGE PROPERTY.
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