Director of Athletics

Sam Houston State University seeks a communicative, revenue-minded, innovative and relationship focused Director of Athletics to lead a competitive DI FBS athletics department during one of the most dynamic eras in college sports. This individual will serve as the public face of Sam Houston Athletics – strengthening relationships, driving revenue, and building momentum across the region and the national athletics landscape.

As a key partner to the President, President’s Cabinet, athletics administration, coaches, and student-athletes, the next Director of Athletics will elevate the University’s proud athletics tradition while shaping Sam Houston’s position within Conference USA and an evolving DI FBS landscape.

ABOUT SAM HOUSTON STATE 

Sam Houston State University (SHSU) is a public university located in Huntsville, Texas. Founded in 1879, SHSU is committed to accessible, quality higher education and preparing students for meaningful lives of achievement and service. Its longstanding motto, “The measure of a life is its service,” reflects a commitment to academic excellence, student success, and community engagement.

SHSU offers undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs focused on career readiness, personal and professional development, and service. In addition to its main campus in Huntsville, the University serves students through locations in The Woodlands and Conroe and through online programs. Integrated academic and student success services support traditional and nontraditional students from diverse backgrounds.

With a presence across Huntsville and the greater Houston region, SHSU connects its University community with opportunities for education, professional development, and community partnerships. Its strategic plan emphasizes building on institutional strengths, aligning priorities, and advancing the University’s future.

ABOUT SAM HOUSTON STATE ATHLETICS 

Sam Houston Athletics sponsors 18 NCAA Division I varsity sports and competes as the Bearkats. Sam Houston joined Conference USA in 2023, elevating its athletics profile and moving its football program into the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS). The department has a history of conference championships, NCAA postseason appearances, and national titles in football and bowling.

Recent facility investments provide a foundation for continued growth, including the Bowers Stadium West Side Complex dedicated in July 2026. The next Director of Athletics will build on the legacy of longtime Director Bobby Williams, who has announced his retirement effective June 1, 2027, while positioning Bearkat Athletics for sustained success in Conference USA and the FBS.

Academic achievement and student-athlete development are central to the Bearkat experience. Sam Houston Athletics is committed to competitive excellence while supporting academic success, personal growth, wellness, and preparation for life beyond collegiate athletics.

ABOUT THE POSITION

Reporting directly to President Alisa White and serving as a key member of the University’s leadership team, the Director of Athletics will provide strategic vision, operational oversight, and leadership for all aspects of Sam Houston Athletics.

This individual will serve as the public face of Sam Houston Athletics and will be responsible for strengthening relationships throughout the Huntsville and greater Houston communities, driving revenue generation, supporting student-athlete success, and positioning Sam Houston Athletics for sustained competitive excellence and long-term financial sustainability.

The Director of Athletics will oversee all aspects of the University’s NCAA Division I athletics program while ensuring compliance with NCAA, conference, and institutional rules and regulations. 

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

Advanced degree required. Minimum of seven years administrative experience in intercollegiate athletics required. Experience must reflect evidence of compliance with NCAA rules and regulations. A combination of education, experience, and training that would produce the required knowledge and abilities may be considered.

NATURE AND PURPOSE OF THE POSITION

Responsible for all activities, operations, and policies of the Athletic Department as well as competitive success and fiscal sustainability. The individual will also serve as a member of the president’s leadership team and represent the Athletic Department at the conference, state, and national level.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

Supervises associate and assistant athletic directors, head coaches of all sports, and other staff members of the Athletic Department. Reports to the president of the university. Responsible for the overall management and direction of the university’s athletics program, ensuring alignment with institutional priorities. Provides leadership in budget planning and execution, while ensuring strict compliance with NCAA regulations and standards. Oversees revenue sharing, Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) activities, the transfer portal; and Title IX compliance obligations. Represents the athletic program to the university community, the general public, and the NCAA. Seeks new and expanded revenue streams, and in consultation with the Vice President for Advancement, is involved with fund-raising on behalf of Athletics. Develops and maintains excellent relations between intercollegiate athletics, alumni, faculty, staff, and students. Acts as the university’s principal representative in the field of intercollegiate athletics and spokesperson on matters of policy, news releases, hiring, terminations, etc., as related to the Athletic Department. Performs other related duties as assigned.

OTHER SPECIFICATIONS

Operates within the university’s affirmative action program. Must be knowledgeable of all NCAA and conference rules. Must adhere to NCAA and conference bylaws. Must be supportive of institutional compliance and academic programs and support the university’s commitment to student success. Must report all NCAA and conference violations to proper personnel.

This position is designated as a Campus Security Authority (CSA).

This is a classification description with the complete list of job duties being maintained at the departmental level.  Other job duties necessary for the effective operation of the University are expected to be performed. Any qualifications to be considered as equivalents in lieu of stated minimums require the prior approval of Human Resources.

Sam Houston State University is an at will employer and drug free/smoke free workplace. All positions at Sam Houston State University are considered security sensitive requiring background checks in accordance with education code 51.215, and drug testing as required by D.O.T. for safety sensitive positions.  The pay grade range is inclusive of social security benefit replacement pay.

Sam Houston State University is Committed to Equal Opportunity in Employment and Education.