Vice President & Director of Athletics

The Role & The Opportunity

Utah State University, a premier land- and space-grant institution and a competitive leader in the Mountain West Conference, invites nominations and applications for the position of Vice President and Director of Athletics. This is a cabinet-level appointment, reporting directly to the University President, and serves as the chief executive for Utah State’s NCAA Division I athletic department.

This executive will provide visionary leadership and strategic direction for a department comprising 16 varsity sports, over 400 student-athletes, and a dedicated team of coaches and staff. The successful candidate will be responsible for all aspects of the department, including fiscal affairs, personnel, strategic planning, facilities, fundraising, and external relations, while ensuring unwavering commitment to student-athlete well-being, academic success, and a culture of integrity and competitive excellence.

A Tradition of Excellence

The next Director of Athletics will represent a university renowned for its academic rigor, groundbreaking research, and a deeply passionate Aggie fanbase.

University & Community Excellence

• Designated as an R1 research university (“very high research activity”) by the Carnegie Classification, placing it among the nation’s most elite institutions.
• A NASA Space Grant institution with a rich history of contributions to aerospace and engineering.
• Located in the Logan metro area, named the “#1 Top Small City in the U.S.” by the Milken Institute (2022).
• Logan was also recognized as the “Best City to Live in the West” by Business Insider (2020).

Athletic Distinction

• Sponsors 16 varsity programs with a mission to develop graduates and community leaders.
• Joining the Pac-12 Conference on July 1, 2026.
• Guided by seven core values: Trustworthiness, Respect, Unity, Excellence, Accountability, Great Attitude, and Service.
• A history of championship success and a deeply supportive community that creates an electric gameday atmosphere.

Leadership & Vision

The Vice President and Director of Athletics will be a key member of the university’s executive leadership team, working in close collaboration with the President to advance the institution’s mission.

Alan L. Smith, Interim President of Utah State

Smith has over 27 years of experience in higher education, both as a faculty member and as an administrator. Prior to joining Utah State, Smith served nine years as professor and chairperson of the Department of Kinesiology at Michigan State University, held professorship positions at Purdue University from 1998 to 2012, and began his career in 1997 at the University of Virginia. He has also held visiting professorships in Finland and the United Kingdom.

View President’s Bio

Executive Administration

The Director of Athletics will lead a dedicated and experienced senior leadership team committed to the success of Utah State’s student-athletes.

Brent Beerends

Senior Associate AD, Strategic Communications

Tony Hearrell

Senior Associate AD, Compliance & Student-Athlete Services

Dr. Trevor Short

Senior Associate AD, Health, Wellness and Performance

The Ideal Candidate Profile

The successful candidate will be a person of exceptional integrity with a deep understanding of the complexities of modern collegiate athletics. Key qualifications include:

• Executive Leadership: A proven record of successful leadership and management in a complex organization, preferably within NCAA Division I athletics.
• Financial Acumen: Demonstrated expertise in fiscal management, budget development, and strategic revenue generation, including fundraising, corporate partnerships, and ticket sales.
• Commitment to Student-Athletes: An unwavering dedication to the academic success, health, safety, and personal development of student-athletes.
• Strategic Vision: The ability to develop and execute a strategic plan that enhances competitive success, grows the department’s resource base, and aligns with the university’s mission.
• Interpersonal Skills: Exceptional communication skills and the ability to build strong, authentic relationships with a diverse range of constituents, including student-athletes, coaches, staff, donors, and fans.
• NCAA Compliance: A thorough understanding of and commitment to NCAA rules and regulations.

Why Work at Utah State?

Utah State University is not just a workplace; it’s a community recognized nationally for its exceptional environment and employee support.

• #1 Best Place to Work: Named the best employer in the state of Utah by Forbes Magazine.
• A Top-Tier Employer: Recognized as one of America’s Best Employers for Women by Forbes.
• Beautiful Surroundings: Celebrated by Time Magazine as the “most beautiful college in Utah.”
• Exceptional Benefits: Enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including a generous health plan and a retirement plan where the university contributes 14.2% of your salary.
• Work-Life Balance: Take advantage of 22 days of paid annual leave, 12 days of paid sick leave, and 12 paid holidays each year.
• Tuition Reduction: Invest in your future and your family’s with a 50% tuition reduction for employees, spouses, and dependent children.

Life in Logan, Utah

Nestled in the picturesque Cache Valley, Logan offers a unique and highly desirable quality of life. It combines the vibrancy of a college town with unparalleled access to the great outdoors.

• #1 Safest Metro in the West: Recognized for its safety and strong community by Washington Monthly.
• Top College Town: Consistently ranked as one of the best college towns in America.
• Gateway to the Outdoors: Perfectly positioned with 8 national parks within a 5-hour drive.
• Four Distinct Seasons: Enjoy ideal weather for year-round recreation, with an average summer temperature of 85° and an average winter temperature of 34°.