Wyolie Coyote
Well-known member
It got nothing to do with modern. The position has always required a CEO-type to properly run an athletic department. It is a business. It isn't fundraising for a nonprofit which I would equate to Burman's view of the position. An AD needs to have some HR abilities, marketing skills, and be a shrewd businessman in addition to being able to grovel to donors to fund construction projects/buyout coaches, etc. The current landscape has only accentuated the need to be a businessman with out of the box thinking. Some foresight and planning are necessities. Burman completely lacks any of the skills, other than fundraising, an AD needed 20 years ago and especially today. And that is not even mentioning the ability to evalate talent and make the right hiring decisions.In the modern space, I think we need more of a CEO-type for athletic director. It’s a big money business. Someone who understands commercialism and establishing ties with other businesses would be beneficial. Hiring search firms and seriously considering their recommendations is a must. More than anything, I would love to see a professional who is not afraid to roll up their sleeves and work hard to ensure not just success for today but for the future as well.