Commissioner

WittKieffer is proud to partner with the Ohio Valley Conference (OVC; https://ovcsports.com/) in their search for an experienced, externally focused, and dynamic leader to serve as the next Commissioner. We invite nominations, applications, and inquiries. Reporting to the Board of Presidents and Chancellors, the Commissioner is charged with providing vision, leadership, and sound decision-making regarding all OVC matters.

With offices located in Brentwood, TN (near Nashville), the next Commissioner will be expected to provide strategic leadership for the growth and retention of conference membership, the elevation of the OVC brand, and the support of its member institutions. The conference, in its 78th year, has an excellent history of competitive success and hosts 19 championships at the NCAA Division I level. In 2026 and 2027, the OVC will partner with the Nashville Sports Council to host the Division I FCS Football Championship games on the campus of Vanderbilt University. Currently serving 11 member institutions, the membership will transition to 9 members in July 2026. Conference members will include: Eastern Illinois University (http://www.eiupanthers.com/), Lindenwood University (https://lindenwoodlions.com/), Morehead State University (http://www.msueagles.com/), Southeast Missouri State University (http://www.semoredhawks.com/), Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (http://www.siuecougars.com/), University of Southern Indiana (https://usiscreamingeagles.com/), Tennessee State University (http://www.tsutigers.com/), University of Tennessee at Martin (http://www.utmsports.com/), and Western Illinois University (https://goleathernecks.com/). Known for its pioneering leadership in gender and racial equity, the conference continues to seek ways to remain forward-thinking in the dynamic and sometimes turbulent landscape of collegiate athletics.

Supported by a strong internal team, the next Commissioner will bring exemplary skills in recruitment and external relationship building, developing innovative strategies for member expansion and revenue growth. They will serve as a trusted thought-partner and advisor to the Board of Presidents and Chancellors, enabling each member school to contribute meaningfully to the national conversation around intercollegiate athletics. With the support of this open-minded and forward-thinking Board, the Commissioner has the opportunity to make a tremendous impact on the lives of student-athletes during their competitive careers and beyond.

The successful candidate must possess an earned bachelor's degree, while an advanced degree (Master's or Doctorate) is strongly preferred. They will be a leader with substantial experience (8-10 years) in collegiate athletics or a comparable field, with progressive leadership responsibilities.

All applications, nominations, and inquiries are invited. Applications should include, as separate documents, a CV or resume and a letter of interest addressing the themes in the leadership profile available at https://apptrkr.com/6799699. For fullest consideration, application materials should be received by January 27, 2026.

WittKieffer is assisting the Ohio Valley Conference in this search. Applications, nominations, and inquiries can be directed to:

Jeff Compher and Sandra Chu

OVCCommissioner@wittkieffer.com

The Ohio Valley Conference is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.