News Summary
The University of South Florida (USF) has named Rob Higgins as its first-ever CEO of Athletics. This strategic leadership role aims to improve the operational and financial effectiveness of USF’s athletics department. Higgins, a USF alumnus, brings extensive experience from his previous role with the Tampa Bay Sports Commission, where he played a key part in promoting the region’s sports scene. His appointment reflects a shift towards a more business-oriented approach in college athletics. An introductory press conference is scheduled, generating excitement about the direction of USF Athletics.
Tampa, FL – The University of South Florida (USF) has appointed Rob Higgins as its first-ever CEO of Athletics in a significant move towards a more business-oriented leadership model for its sports programs. This new role has been established to oversee the university’s expanding athletics department and enhance its operational and financial effectiveness.
Higgins, a USF alumnus, previously served as the executive director of the Tampa Bay Sports Commission since 2004. During his tenure, he has been instrumental in establishing Tampa Bay as a prominent sports and entertainment destination, successfully hosting high-profile events, including two Super Bowls, a College Football Playoff National Championship, and various NCAA championships.
This appointment follows a nationwide search initiated by USF to find a successor for former athletic director Michael Kelly, who left to assume the role of athletic director at the Naval Academy. The decision to create the CEO position reflects a broader trend emerging in college athletics, which is increasingly oriented toward a business-driven strategy to boost revenue streams and enhance national visibility.
With extensive experience in event management and a robust network within the sports industry, Higgins is expected to bring valuable insights and connections to USF Athletics. His professional journey began at USF, where as a student, he worked in athletics before progressing to oversee facilities and event management.
Higgins’ credentials are further solidified by his recognition in the Tampa Bay business community. He has been named to the Tampa Bay Business Journal’s Power 100 list for five consecutive years and has been inducted into the Tampa Sports Club Hall of Fame, underscoring his influence in the region.
USF President Rhea Law acknowledged Higgins’ capability to leverage sports events to enhance both the profile and economic impact of Tampa Bay, indicating strong institutional support as he transitions into this leadership role.
Higgins assumes this responsibility at a crucial time for USF Athletics, which is preparing for the opening of a new $407 million on-campus stadium in 2027. Additionally, Higgins will confront the challenges presented by evolving revenue-sharing models and new regulations regarding Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) in college sports—issues that are reshaping the operational landscape of college athletics.
Moreover, USF’s football team has shown promise, recently securing a notable victory against the University of Florida and marking their return to the AP Top 25 rankings for the first time since 2018. This rising success could further raise the profile of the athletics program under Higgins’ stewardship.
An introductory press conference for Rob Higgins is scheduled for September 22, which will provide insights into his vision and strategy for the future of USF Athletics. The community and supporters of the university are anticipated to be keenly interested in the direction he will take in this pioneering position.
In summary, the appointment of Rob Higgins as the first CEO of Athletics marks a new era for the University of South Florida, highlighting a commitment to innovation and improved leadership within its athletics department. His extensive background and connections in the sports industry are expected to bring positive outcomes as USF continues to enhance its presence in collegiate athletics.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- WTSP
- Wikipedia: Rob Higgins
- St. Pete Catalyst
- Google Search: Rob Higgins USF Athletics CEO
- Crow’s Nest
- Google Scholar: Rob Higgins USF
- Florida Politics
- Encyclopedia Britannica: University of South Florida
- USF Oracle
- Google News: USF Athletics
Author: STAFF HERE TAMPA WRITER
The TAMPA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERETampa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Tampa, Hillsborough County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Gasparilla Pirate Festival, Florida State Fair, and Tampa Riverfest. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce and United Way Suncoast, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and technology that power the local economy such as BayCare Health System, Grow Financial Federal Credit Union, and KnowBe4. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HERESTPetersburg.com, and HERETallahassee.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
