The Executive Senior Associate Athletics Director, Student-Athlete Management and Administration will advise the Director of Athletics and athletics leadership on legal matters pertaining to the athletics department in coordination with the Office of the General Counsel. This position will be responsible for drafting, negotiating and managing contracts for Athletics, including but not limited to contracts related to name, image, and likeness (NIL) licensing agreements, employee contracts, sponsorship agreements, and commercial partnerships while playing a pivotal role in facilitating departmental strategy regarding the benefits cap brought forth by implementation of the House settlement. This position will report directly to the Vice President and Director of Athletics with dotted line reporting to the Office of the General Counsel and work closely with athletics leadership, head coaches, the Athletics Business Office, Office of Compliance Services, and department approved consultants. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Oversee the development, negotiation, and execution of contracts related to the Athletics department
• Ensure contractual agreements align with Athletics strategic goals and comply with legal and regulatory requirements, considering recent legal decisions and revenue-sharing models with student-athletes.
• Oversee the assignment and distribution of institutional benefits provided to student-athletes under the terms of the House settlement.
• Work collaboratively with coaches, administrators, student-athletes, and external parties to understand their needs and provide effective contract solutions to secure favorable terms, mitigate risks, and alignment with budgetary constraints.
• Evaluate potential risks associated with contracts and propose mitigating strategies, ensuring compliance with recent legal rulings.
• Ensure contracts comply with State and Federal laws, as well as NCAA, College Sports Commission (CSC) and Big Ten Conference regulations.
• Develop and implement policies and procedures related to contract management within Athletics, considering recent legal precedents.
• Maintain accurate and comprehensive records of all contract negotiations and final agreements.
• Provide training and guidance to internal Athletics staff on contract-related matters, best practices, and the implications of recent legal decisions.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctorate (JD) granted by an ABA accredited law school.
• Admission to or eligibility for admission to the State Bar of Michigan within 6 months of position start date.
• At least five years of experience in drafting and negotiating contracts.
• Experience working and negotiating with sports agents or advisors
• Understanding of collegiate and/or professional sports landscape.
• Excellent writing ability and advocacy skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.

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