University of California, Berkeley Launches Search for AD

Berkeley, California, January 16, 2018 – The University of California, Berkeley has retained executive search firm Witt/Kieffer to assist in the search of its next Director of Intercollegiate Athletics (“AD”). The new executive will replace current AD Mike Williams, who announced his retirement in August 2017 and and will step down by May 6, 2018.

“This is a truly important leadership recruitment for our University. The opportunities as well as challenges in college athletics today are significant,” said University chancellor Carol Christ. “We have had very productive conversations with the consultants at Witt/Kieffer on our objectives and aspirations for our Intercollegiate Athletics program; about our dedication to our student-athletes and department employees, and about our unique institutional mission and culture. With their help I am confident that our next AD will be ready and able to lead the program into a new era of excellence consistent with the standards and values of our extraordinary University."

The recruitment will be led by Greg Santore, principal and leader of Witt/Kieffer’s Sports Leadership Practice, as well as senior partner Zachary Smith, PhD, deputy managing partner for Witt/Kieffer’s Education Practice, and consultant Katy Young, senior associate in Sports Leadership. The University and consulting team will announce position specifications and a timeline for completion of the search soon.

“The AD role at Cal is an exceptional opportunity and there will be tremendous interest in this position,” noted Santore. “It is critical that Cal’s next Director of Intercollegiate Athletics be able to carry on a great legacy while helping the University and its student athletes adapt and excel in the ever-changing world of college sports.”

About Witt/Kieffer

Witt/Kieffer is the nation’s preeminent executive search firm supporting organizations improving the quality of life, including those in education, healthcare, academic medicine, life sciences, sports, and the not-for-profit sector. It also serves clients through its Board Services, Information Technology, and Leadership Solutions practices, which offer services that further strengthen client enterprises. For more information, please visit WittKieffer.com.