Jim Hackett's time as Michigan's interim athletic director is coming to an end.
The school announced Wednesday that it has begun searching for a permanent athletic director. Hackett has been Michigan's interim athletic director since the resignation of Dave Brandon.
Brandon resigned in October 2014. Michigan was 3-5 at the time of Brandon's resignation and the athletic department had been scrutinized for its handling of quarterback Shane Morris' concussion and a remodeling of student football ticket protocols.
Hackett immediately replaced Brandon, fired coach Brady Hoke in December and led the search to find new coach Jim Harbaugh, who has led Michigan to a 9-3 record in 2015.
"It has been an honor and a privilege to serve the University of Michigan and President Schlissel," Hackett said in a statement. "This past year has been incredibly rewarding both personally and professionally, we have accomplished many great things."
"I loved serving my university and appreciate the support I have received from everyone connected with Michigan. I am now pleased to assist President Schlissel in identifying U-M's next permanent athletic director and ensuring a smooth transition."
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The school said Hackett does not want to be considered for the permanent athletic director position.
"Jim Hackett has been an exceptional interim AD," Michigan president Mark Schlissel said. "I could not have asked for more from a leader. He stepped up at a moment of need and has served the institution with great distinction. Personally, he has been a pleasure to work with and I will always owe him a debt of gratitude.
"Jim does not wish to be considered for the permanent AD role. I have asked him to serve on the search advisory committee because he knows well what is required for the position to be successful. Great university citizen that he is, Jim has agreed to stay on until a permanent successor is in place."
The school said in its release that the athletic department has a budget of $151 million and has 350 staffers. Brandon, the former CEO of Domino's Pizza, took a job as the CEO of Toys R Us in June.
For more Michigan news, visit TheWolverine.com.
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Nick Bromberg is the assistant editor of Dr. Saturday on Yahoo Sports. Have a tip? Email him at nickbromberg@yahoo.com or follow him on Twitter!
