Gopher Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

University of Minnesota Athletics has 4 executives leading key functions including revenue generation, operational oversight, financial management, and team leadership.

Driven by a commitment to excellence, Gopher Athletics fosters athlete development, manages competitive sports programs, and engages the community through dynamic sporting events, impacting students, athletes, and fans.

Leadership Roles at Gopher

  • Deputy Athletics Director and Chief Financial Officer - Timothy McCleary
  • Executive Associate AD and Chief Revenue Officer - Travis Cameron
  • Deputy Athletics Director and Chief of Staff - Tricia Budke
  • Team Captain - Justin Kloos
  • Timothy McCleary - Deputy Athletics Director and Chief Financial Officer

    Timothy McCleary, the Deputy Athletics Director and Chief Financial Officer at Gopher, directs the comprehensive financial management and fiscal strategy for the University of Minnesota Athletics. McCleary is responsible for budgeting, financial planning, and ensuring the fiscal health of all sports programs and operational units. This involves meticulous oversight of expenditures, revenue allocation, and financial reporting to stakeholders. By maintaining strict financial discipline, Timothy McCleary enables the department to effectively fund athlete development, manage event costs, and pursue strategic growth opportunities. The CFO's leadership ensures that financial resources are optimally utilized to support the Gophers' competitive endeavors and community engagement objectives.

    Travis Cameron - Executive Associate AD and Chief Revenue Officer

    Travis Cameron, the Executive Associate AD and Chief Revenue Officer at Gopher, directs all revenue-generating initiatives for the University of Minnesota Athletics. Cameron oversees the strategic development and execution of programs designed to maximize financial support, including sponsorships, ticket sales, and donor relations. This leadership role involves cultivating partnerships that enhance the athletic department's operational capacity and support athlete development. By ensuring robust financial streams, Travis Cameron directly contributes to the department's ability to offer a wide range of competitive sports and community engagement opportunities. The focus remains on sustainable growth and expanding the Gophers' market reach through innovative revenue strategies.

    Tricia Budke - Deputy Athletics Director and Chief of Staff

    Tricia Budke, the Deputy Athletics Director and Chief of Staff at Gopher, manages the day-to-day operational efficiency and strategic alignment across the athletics department. Budke ensures seamless coordination between various functional areas, including athlete development, event scheduling, and administrative support. This position involves acting as a key liaison between the athletics director and other department leaders, facilitating communication and driving key initiatives forward. By maintaining organizational structure and optimizing workflows, Tricia Budke supports the department's mission to provide a comprehensive athletic experience for students and athletes. The role is critical in translating strategic goals into actionable plans, ensuring all operations contribute to the Gophers' success.

    Justin Kloos - Team Captain

    Justin Kloos, the Team Captain at Gopher, embodies leadership and sets the competitive standard for student-athletes within the University of Minnesota Athletics programs. Kloos serves as a vital link between the coaching staff and the team, fostering a culture of dedication, discipline, and sportsmanship. This role involves motivating peers, promoting team cohesion, and representing the collective voice of the athletes. By demonstrating commitment on and off the field, Justin Kloos inspires fellow athletes to excel in their respective sports and academic pursuits. The captaincy is crucial in upholding the Gophers' tradition of athletic excellence and driving team performance through dedicated leadership.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Gopher Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Gopher?
    Gopher is led by Timothy McCleary (Deputy Athletics Director and Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Travis Cameron (Executive Associate AD and Chief Revenue Officer) and Tricia Budke (Deputy Athletics Director and Chief of Staff).
    Who is part of Gopher’s executive team?
    The executive team of Gopher includes leaders such as Timothy McCleary (Deputy Athletics Director and Chief Financial Officer), Travis Cameron (Executive Associate AD and Chief Revenue Officer), Tricia Budke (Deputy Athletics Director and Chief of Staff) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Gopher have?
    Gopher has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Gopher’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Gopher includes roles such as Deputy Athletics Director and Chief Financial Officer, Executive Associate AD and Chief Revenue Officer, Deputy Athletics Director and Chief of Staff, Team Captain.