The search has begun for a new person in charge of SMU’s athletic department. After over a decade as the Mustangs' athletic director, Rick Hart announced Friday that he would be leaving his role at the end of the school year to make way for new president Jay Hartzell to carry out his vision for SMU athletics.

Hart leaves what's expected to be a highly sought-after job following SMU's conference switch and CFP appearance.

Rick Hart is stepping down after 13 years as athletic director at SMU, which in the past year completed its long-desired move into a power conference by becoming a member of the Atlantic Coast Conference.

SMU announced Hart's departure on Friday, marking an end to Hart's 12-plus years on the Hilltop. He'll stay in the role until a new athletics director is hired and on campus, but this will be his last academic year at SMU, the announcement said.

SMU athletic director Rick Hart announced Friday that he will be leaving his position at the end of the school year. "It is with tremendous pride, heartfelt love, and yes,