UCLA has named Tim Harris, a former longtime executive for the Los Angeles Lakers, as its new athletic director and CEO. The announcement comes as the university seeks a "build[s] a new path forward for UCLA Athletics," according to a letter from Chancellor Julio Frenk to the university community.
Harris, 64, will serve on a pro bono basis. He is a 1989 UCLA graduate and former men's soccer player who spent over 35 years with the Lakers, leaving the NBA franchise in February. Frenk noted Harris' extensive business operations experience with the Lakers.
Martin Jarmond, 46, was fired after six years in the role. His tenure included three NCAA championships last season, including the women's basketball team's first title. Jarmond had signed a contract extension in May 2024 and replaced Dan Guerrero in 2020.
Chancellor Frenk cited the athletic department's substantial financial debt as a primary reason for the leadership change. The department has reportedly incurred yearly deficits for seven consecutive years, accumulating a total shortfall of $241 million. While UCLA's move to the Big Ten Conference has brought in significant media rights revenue, it has also increased travel expenses. The deficit for the 2025 fiscal year was projected to be $21.6 million, a reduction from previous years, with the university repeatedly providing financial support.
"UCLA Athletics currently carries a significant financial debt, and its current path is not sustainable," Frenk wrote. "Now is the moment to build a model for Athletics that protects the breadth of our program, creates new opportunities for student-athletes and coaches, and supports itself through the revenue it generates."
Frenk also highlighted the evolving landscape of college sports, particularly the impact of name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals, stating that UCLA needs an athletic model that is a leader in this transformation.
Jarmond's final major hire was Bob Chesney, who was brought in from James Madison in early December to lead the football program. The Bruins are scheduled to open their season against California.