not basketball specific but we had a couple new hires

He was mostly compliance. 

Ryne Hillenberg from IU was hired as Director of Athletics Compliance.

This position is one intended to  generate additional revenue from all sources.  The hire means that the higher ups have belatedly come to realize that is a much bigger part of the AD job and that the current organization in the department is not able to do that job.   So...they naturally hire another administrator and no doubt some additional staff to work for him, on the theory he will generate more extra revenue than he costs.

But the description below looks to me that it also apparently recognizes the AD can't ride herd on everything as it is currently organized, and wanted/needed somebody from outside to help do that.

Given his football background you have to think he will have something to do with "oversight" there.

Here is the job description posted for the position:

This position reports to the Director of Athletics and functions as a chief strategist and advisor to the AD. The individual will have oversight of all external areas, as well as associated personnel. The position will lead revenue-generating initiatives to include strategic partnerships and external contracts such as multimedia rights. This includes serving as a liaison with the University Foundation, and playing a key role in the cultivation, stewardship, and solicitation of gifts (in collaboration with Athletic Development staff). The leader will assist with the day-to-day administration of Ball State s 19 sport programs, and have a day-to-day oversight of specific teams based on the interest and experience of the successful candidate. Depending on the experience, this individual may have oversight of other department units. MINIMUM EDUCATION Bachelor s degree from an accredited institution. MINIMUM EXPERIENCE 7+ years multi-unit experience in NCAA Division I athletics, or professional sports, marketing, promotions, ticket sales and/or communications. Track-record of successful revenue generation. Demonstrated leadership for multiple direct reports. Commitment to NCAA compliance and assisting in delivering a positive student-athlete experience. MINIMUM OTHER Valid driver s license and ability to establish driver eligibility under the University s Driving and Motor Vehicle Policy. Ability to travel and work evening and weekend hours as required. Excellent written and verbal communications skills. Ability to efficiently multi-task and provide responsiveness within and outside of the organization AUTHORIZATION TO WORK IN THE US Candidates for searches must have current authorization to be employed in the U.S. without employer sponsorship. PREFERRED EDUCATION Master s degree from an accredited institution PREFERRED EXPERIENCE Experience at multiple sub-levels of NCAA Division I, including FBS, FCS, and/or I-AAA. PREFERRED OTHER PRE-EMPLOYMENT SCREENING Requires successful completion of a Drivers License check, Requires successful completion of a background check and education verification. POSITIONS SUPERVISED TBD REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS EEO STATEMENT Ball State University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer that is strongly and actively committed to diversity within its community. Women, minorities, individuals with disabilities and protected veterans are strongly encouraged to apply. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status or any other legally protected status.EEO/AA Employer/Veterans/Disabled. ABOUT BALL STATE UNIVERSITY Ball State University is located in Muncie, Indiana, on an attractive campus 45 miles northeast of Indianapolis. Approximately 22,000 graduate and undergraduate students enroll in one of 10 academic colleges that offer 190 undergraduate programs. We offer more than 140 master s, doctoral, certificate, and specialist degrees, with many of them ranking among the best in the nation. Ball State aspires to be the model of the most student-centered and community-engaged of the 21st century public research universities, transforming entrepreneurial learners into impactful leaders committed to improving the quality of life for all.

That is certainly true. 

Good catch on checking the staff directory. 

There isn't in my mind a higher level administrative challenge.  This adds some help for the AD, but I am not sure we can expect a lot.

It's a good resume, but better in the area of working with development than working on the business side of college sports, and I don't see  anything on the resume that suggests he comes in with a lot of experience or proven success.   I hope he has the business acumen to make a big difference. 

Generating lots more revenue from operations is going to be heavy lifting, not sure there is as much potential there as we actually need.