{"@context":"https://schema.org","@type":"JobPosting","title":"Deputy Athletic Director/ Chief of Staff","description":"

Deputy Athletic Director & Chief of Staff
\nUCSD Athletics

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Position OverviewThe Deputy Athletic Director & Chief of Staff serves as the Athletic Director’s principal operational partner and strategic advisor, with broad responsibilities for overseeing the Athletics Department's day-to-day operations and advancing institutional priorities. This role is designed for a senior leader who can translate vision into execution, build and develop high-performing teams, anticipate challenges, and elevate operational standards across people, finances, and systems.

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The Deputy Athletic Director & Chief of Staff plays a critical role in ensuring alignment, accountability, and momentum across the department while supporting UC San Diego Athletics as it continues to compete and evolve within the rapidly changing Division I landscape. Candidates from both collegiate athletics and professional sports, including emerging leagues, are encouraged to apply.

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Key Responsibilities

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Strategic Leadership and Advisory

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Serve as a trusted advisor and thought partner to the Athletic Director on strategy, priorities, and execution.
Support decision-making by synthesizing information, identifying risks and opportunities, and providing actionable recommendations.
Represent the Athletic Director in meetings, committees, and campus engagements as assigned.

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Departmental Operations and Execution

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Oversee day-to-day administrative and operational functions of the Athletics Department to ensure efficiency and effectiveness.
Coordinate across internal units to reduce silos, improve communication, and ensure consistent implementation of priorities.
Lead cross-functional initiatives and special projects critical to departmental success.
Ensure accountability and follow-through on departmental goals and timelines.

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People Leadership and Culture Development

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Build, develop, and retain a high-performing athletics administration team.
Establish clear expectations, roles, and accountability across staff.
Foster a culture of collaboration, professionalism, inclusion, and continuous improvement.
Raise performance standards in a respectful, constructive, and values-driven manner.

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Financial and Administrative Oversight

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Partner with senior leadership on budget development, resource allocation, and financial planning.
Promote fiscal discipline, transparency, and best practices in administrative operations.
Support long-term planning related to staffing, infrastructure, and operational sustainability.

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Athletics Industry Acumen and Change Management

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Apply a deep understanding of Division I athletics, NCAA governance, and the evolving collegiate sports landscape.
Translate innovative and professional sports best practices into a university setting where appropriate.
Lead with urgency, adaptability, and sound judgment amid industry change.

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Proactive Problem Solving

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Anticipate challenges and address issues before they escalate.
Develop and implement practical, timely solutions to complex operational and organizational challenges.
Ensure departmental priorities continue to move forward without disruption.

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Required Qualifications

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Bachelor’s degree in Sports Management, Business, Higher Education, or a related field.
Minimum of eight years of progressive leadership experience in collegiate athletics, professional sports, higher education, or a comparable operational environment.
Demonstrated experience leading people, managing complex operations, and driving strategic initiatives.
Strong organizational, communication, and decision-making skills.
Proven ability to operate with urgency while maintaining professionalism, discretion, and trust.

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Preferred Qualifications

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Master’s degree in a related field.
Experience serving as a Deputy Athletic Director, Chief of Staff, Senior Associate Athletic Director, COO, or comparable senior operational role.
Experience with financial oversight, budgeting, and strategic planning.
Exposure to both collegiate and professional sports environments, including emerging or growth-oriented leagues.

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Work Environment

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This position is fully on-site in La Jolla, California. Due to the leadership, operational, and relationship-driven nature of the role, remote or hybrid work arrangements are not available. The Deputy Athletic Director & Chief of Staff is expected to maintain a visible, engaged presence within the department.

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Compensation

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The anticipated annual salary range for this position is $175,000 to $225,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications. UC San Diego offers a comprehensive benefits package in accordance with University of California policy.

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