Note for Current UM Employees
Current employees must apply internally via connectU - connectu.olemiss.edu
Position Description
The Assistant Professor – Sport Management serves as a tenure-track faculty member responsible for developing a relevant, distinguishing research line while regularly seeking external funding. This nine-month position requires developing and maintaining an active research agenda, demonstrating excellence in teaching both in-person and online courses, maintaining expertise in pedagogy and assigned areas of teaching, monitoring student progress, and assisting with student recruitment, retention, and graduation, and participating in service and professional engagement. The position supports the newly launched Sport Management Program at The University of Mississippi with an August 2026 start date.
About the Program:
Formerly a Sport and Recreation Administration Program at The University of Mississippi, the Sport Management Program was launched officially in Fall 2025 with a new name and new undergraduate and graduate curriculums. The Sport Management Program is housed in the Department of Health, Exercise Science and Recreation Management (HESRM) (hesrm.olemiss.edu). HESRM currently offers two undergraduate programs (Sport Management, Exercise Science), four master's degree programs (Sport Management (online and on-campus), online Sport Analytics, Athletic Training, Exercise Science), and a Ph.D. program in Health and Kinesiology with three emphasis areas (Sport Management, Sport Analytics, Exercise Science).
Research and Scholarship:
• Develop a relevant, distinguishing research line in sport management or closely related field
• Regularly seek external funding opportunities to support research initiatives
• Maintain consistent research productivity and scholarly output
• Contribute to the academic reputation of the Sport Management Program through quality research
Teaching and Pedagogy:
• Teach in-person and online courses in sport management and related areas
• Maintain expertise in pedagogy and assigned areas of teaching
• Monitor student progress and provide academic guidance
• Develop and deliver both in-person and online course content effectively
Student Development and Support:
• Assist with student recruitment, retention, and graduation initiatives
• Provide mentorship and guidance to undergraduate and graduate students
• Support student success through advising and professional development opportunities
Service and Professional Engagement:
• Assist with curriculum revision and program development
• Grow partnerships in the sports industry
• Serve on departmental committees as assigned
• Contribute to the mission and goals of HESRM and the School of Applied Sciences
Personal Attributes:
• Commitment to academic excellence and student success
• Collaborative approach to working with faculty, staff, and students
• Innovative thinking and problem-solving capabilities
• Commitment to COAT principles and inclusive excellence
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced academic environment
Position Details
Appointment: 9 Month
Assignment Type: Tenure Track
Minimum Qualifications
Educational and Professional Experience:
• Ph.D. or equivalent in sport management, athletic administration, sport business, or closely related field (ABD applicants considered provided terminal degree is earned before Fall 2026 semester)
• Demonstrated potential for consistent research productivity
• Experience in sport or athletic administration preferred
• History of developing and teaching both in-person and online courses preferred
Skills and Competencies:
• Expertise and/or experience in sport marketing, AI and sport, sport development, college athletics, or sport policy preferred
• Strong research and analytical capabilities
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities
• Proficiency in online and in-person teaching methodologies
• Knowledge of contemporary sport management trends and best practices
Interview Requirements: Any candidate who is called for an interview must notify the Department of Equal Opportunity/Regulatory Compliance in writing of any reasonable accommodation needed prior to the date of the interview.
Application Procedures
Review of applications will begin on 10/20/25. The position will remain open until filled or until an adequate applicant pool is established. Applicants must apply online at careers.olemiss.edu and must include a letter of application, curriculum vitae, and contact information for three professional references. No paper copies will be accepted. Official transcripts must be received prior to hire
About the University of MS & Oxford, MS
Founded in 1848, the University of Mississippi (UM), affectionately known to alumni, students and friends as Ole Miss, is Mississippi's flagship university. Included in the elite group of R-1: Doctoral Universities - Highest Research Activity by the Carnegie Classification, it has a long history of producing leaders in public service, academics and business. The University of Mississippi, consistently named by The Chronicle of Higher Education as a “Great College to Work For,” is located in Oxford, MS, which is ranked one of the “Top 10 Best College Towns.” With more than 24,000 students, UM is the state's largest university and is ranked among the nation's fastest-growing institutions. The University of Mississippi, which has aggressively implemented many health and wellness initiatives for its more than 2,900 employees, has consistently been named one of Mississippi’s Healthiest Workplaces.
Touted as the “Cultural Mecca of the South”, creativity abounds in Oxford as musicians, artists and writers alike find inspiration in Oxford’s rich history, small town charm and creative community. Oxford is a one-hour drive south of Memphis, TN and is known as the home of Nobel Prize winning author William Faulkner. Over the years Oxford has also been known for offering exceptional culinary experiences and as the home of the University of Mississippi and the Ole Miss Rebels, there is always something here to immerse yourself in. Oxford has also been featured as a literary and arts destination in such publications as The New York Times, Southern Living, Condé Nast Traveler, and GQ. Among other cultural activities, annual events include the Oxford Film Festival, a thriving local music scene, and the Ford Center Performing Arts Series. Oxford is a vibrant university town, filled with unique shops and galleries, eclectic restaurants and clubs, historic landmarks, and comfortable inns.
Background Check Statement
The University of Mississippi is committed to providing a safe campus community. UM conducts background investigations for applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial (credit) report or driving history check.
EEO Statement
The University of Mississippi provides equal opportunity in any employment practice, education program, or education activity to all qualified persons. The University complies with all applicable laws regarding equal opportunity and does not unlawfully discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based upon race, color, gender, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, national origin, ethnicity, citizenship, age, disability, military status, protected veteran status, or genetic information, or any other legally protected status.
