SUPERVISOR PROFILE FOR MARK BEACH, ATHLETIC DIRECTOR AT CLAY HIGH SCHOOL
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Education: MBA from Bowling Green State University and BBA from the University of Toledo.
Job History: Mark is a six-year Air Force Veteran (software development). He also has worked for the IRS as software developer for two years, DANA Corporation for 17 years, Key Bank for seven years, and has been the Athletic Director for Clay High School for nine years.
Significant Achievements: Some of the achievements Mark has achieved during his tenure include getting a turf football field, new press box, moving historical data to a digital platform, implementing digital ticketing, converting the department to completely cashless, schools first four individual champions (three wrestling and one track and field), and 25 conference titles across all sports.
Certifications: Registered Athletic Administrator (RAA)
Other Tidbits: Mark began his journey as a full-time coach for Clay High School from 1996-2014 and still serves as a part-time wrestling coach. Through coaching, he was identified as a candidate for the position of Athletic Director.
Responsibilities: According to Ohio University (2021) and validated by Mark, “Athletic Directors have multiple unique responsibilities, which they must balance carefully. For example, in a single day, an athletic director may attend financial meetings, arrange field reservations, purchase specific athletic resources, and implement specific improvements or policy changes” (sec. 2). Mark would add that an Athletic Director needs to have effective decision-making skills, networking abilities, an understanding of coaching, and an expert at conflict resolution.
Career Aspirations: Mark is at the tail-end of his tenure as an Athletic Director and looks forward to retirement in the next couple of years.
Tips on Getting a Job in this Field: Mark stated that networking and coaching before thinking about getting into the position will be beneficial. Most schools looking for someone with experience. Internal hirings typically look at the coaching staff for Athletic Director candidates. Volunteering, learning the aspects of game management, even at multiple schools. He also stated that you must have tolerance in this job. The number one thing is putting out fires and resolving conflict.
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References
Ohio University. (2021, September 8). An Athletic Director’s Responsibilities and Career Outlook [web log]. https://onlinemasters.ohio.edu/blog/an-athletic-directors-responsibilities-and-career-outlook/.
