MSU Launches National Search for Next Athletic Director
Michigan State University has officially commenced its nationwide search for a new Athletic Director following the departure of Alan Haller. Haller’s last day in the role was Sunday, May 11, 2025, and by Monday, the search firm tasked with identifying his successor had reportedly begun its work. This pivotal transition comes at a critical juncture for collegiate athletics, marked by evolving landscapes in name, image, and likeness (NIL), the transfer portal, and conference realignment.
University President Kevin Guskiewicz emphasized the importance of this hire, stating that the next Athletic Director will lead a storied program with 23 varsity sports, a passionate fanbase, and a legacy of both academic and athletic excellence. He highlighted the need for a leader who can navigate the changing dynamics of college sports, foster innovation, ensure effective communication, and strengthen community engagement.
To guide this crucial process, MSU has enlisted the expertise of the search firm TurnkeyZRG. An advisory committee, comprising university stakeholders, will work closely with President Guskiewicz and the search firm throughout the selection process. While the timeline for naming a new Athletic Director remains fluid, the university is expected to conduct a thorough and comprehensive search to identify the best candidate to lead Spartan athletics into the future.
In the interim, Deputy Athletic Director Jennifer Smith and men’s basketball head coach Tom Izzo have been appointed as co-interim Athletic Directors. Their combined experience and deep understanding of the university and its athletic programs will provide stability and leadership during this transitional period.
Haller, a former MSU football player, had served as the Athletic Director since September 2021. His tenure saw both successes, including Big Ten titles in men’s basketball and hockey, and challenges, particularly within the evolving NIL landscape and the football program. The search for his replacement signals a clear intent from the university to find a leader equipped to address these challenges and elevate Michigan State athletics to new heights in a rapidly changing environment. The chosen individual will be tasked with maintaining the program’s traditions while embracing innovation to ensure continued success on and off the field.
Patrick Ransdell has officially been looked at as possible replacement
More details soon..
