Chief of Staff

Job Summary

The Chief of Staff serves as a senior strategic and operational partner to the Athletic Director, ensuring alignment, execution, and communication across the entire athletic department. This role is responsible for driving organizational efficiency, managing priority initiatives, coordinating internal operations, and supporting the AD in all aspects of leadership, planning, and decision-making. The Chief of Staff works closely with coaches, department heads, campus partners, and external stakeholders to advance the mission, culture, and competitive goals of the athletics program.

Duties and Responsibilities

Executive Leadership & Strategy

• Serve as a primary advisor and thought partner to the Athletic Director.
• Lead execution of the department’s strategic plan, ensuring alignment among all units.
• Manage cross-departmental initiatives that impact multiple teams or functions.
• Work with Coordinator of Development & Administration on AD scheduling and correspondence.
• Manage special projects assigned by the AD with a high degree of autonomy.

• Facilitate communication between the AD and coaches/staff to keep everyone informed and aligned.
• Work with football director of operations on team travel/assist in administration travel.
• Be the liaison with the AD to assist teams in execution of NIL strategies and roster cap management.
• Along with Deputy AD, SWA, help AD with sport oversight as assigned.
• Assist Development team with donor, alumni, and community effort engagements.
• Track staff evaluations, professional development efforts, and performance follow-up.
• Prepare the AD for meetings, campus engagements, and external appearances.
• Assist athletic communications staff in executing social media goals and communicate to AD.
• Work with facilities team to track building improvement/facilities improvement needs.
• Work on development projects as assigned with Director of Development.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; master’s degree preferred.
• 3–7 years of experience in athletics administration, operations, or related leadership roles.
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects and competing priorities.
• Strong communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• High emotional intelligence with the ability to build trust across a diverse staff.
• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion.