Pick a clean, readable template that puts your leadership and program outcomes first. For an Athletic Director, use a reverse-chronological or hybrid layout so hiring managers see your recent director roles and measurable results quickly.
Keep length tight. One page works for entry and mid-career ADs. Use two pages only if you have long, directly relevant experience running large programs or managing multiple sites.
Use ATS-friendly fonts like Calibri, Arial, Georgia, or Garamond. Set body text at 10–12pt and headers at 14–16pt. Leave clear white space and consistent margins so readers scan easily.
Structure your resume with standard headings: Contact, Summary, Experience, Achievements, Education, Certifications, and Skills. Put measurable achievements first under each job, such as budget size, roster growth, or championship results.
Avoid complex columns, heavy graphics, and unusual fonts. Those elements break ATS parsing and distract hiring staff. Keep color minimal and use bold or italics sparingly to guide the eye.
Watch common mistakes. Don’t cram too much text or drop dates. Don’t use vague phrases like "responsible for" without results. Don’t list every coaching certification; list the most relevant ones with dates.
Use consistent spacing and bullet styles. Align dates on the right and job titles on the left. Tailor the top third of your resume to the Athletic Director role you want, with clear metrics and short achievement bullets.