Former Utah Football Player And Administrator Returns To Lead Department

Mark Harlan Named Utah Athletic Director

Former Utah Football Player and Administrator Returns to Lead Department

Harlan Replaces Kyle Whittingham, Who Stepped Down After 12 Seasons

Mark Harlan, a former Utah football player and administrator, has been named the new athletic director at the University of Utah, the school announced on Monday.

Harlan replaces Kyle Whittingham, who stepped down as athletic director after 12 seasons to focus on his role as head football coach.

Harlan played linebacker for the Utes from 1994-97 and was a team captain his senior season. He went on to work in the Utah athletic department for 10 years before leaving in 2018 to become athletic director at San Jose State.

Harlan is credited with overseeing significant growth and success in the San Jose State athletic department, including the addition of new sports and the renovation of several athletic facilities.

In his new role at Utah, Harlan will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of the athletic department, including the football program, which is one of the most successful in the Pac-12 Conference.

Harlan said he is excited to return to Utah and lead the athletic department.

"I am honored and humbled to be named the athletic director at the University of Utah," Harlan said. "This is a special place with a rich tradition of success in athletics, and I am committed to building on that legacy."