Chris McIntosh is stepping down as University of Wisconsin athletic director after less than five years in the position, according to a Wisconsin State Journal story. McIntosh plans to take a job with the Big Ten Conference.
McIntosh, who became athletic director in 2021 after serving as deputy athletic director, oversaw the department during a period of major changes in college athletics, including conference realignment and the rise of name, image and likeness compensation for athletes. He previously worked in business development and other roles in the department since 2014. McIntosh signed a five-year contract extension in July 2024 that was set to run through June 2029.
The announcement comes after the Wisconsin Legislature passed and Gov. Tony Evers signed legislation aimed at helping UW-Madison athletics compete in the NIL era. The bill provides $14.6 million annually in state funding for debt service on the athletic department’s facilities. It is intended to free up other revenue that the university can use to support NIL opportunities for student-athletes. The measure passed the Assembly 95-1 and the Senate 17-16. Evers used a partial veto to adjust language on how the funds could be spent.
McIntosh had publicly urged lawmakers in March to pass the bill, warning that without additional state support the department might need to cut sports or lower expectations for success.
During McIntosh’s tenure the Badgers hired football coach Luke Fickell and men’s hockey coach Mike Hastings. The department also navigated challenges including the COVID-19 pandemic’s financial impact and shifts in the Big Ten Conference.
