The University of Hawai‘i has selected Matt Elliott to serve as the next Athletics Director for UH Mānoa, pending approval by the UH Board of Regents at a special meeting scheduled for June 16.
Elliott brings over a decade of Division I athletics leadership, most notably a 13-year tenure at UCLA. There, he most recently served as Chief Strategy Officer, helping lead the Bruins’ transition from the Pac-12 to the Big Ten Conference. He also oversaw the development of a five-year strategic plan and played a key role in securing a $280 million apparel deal — the largest in college athletics history.
In addition to his experience with legal affairs, NIL policy, compliance, and coach recruitment, Elliott partnered with UCLA’s School of Education to launch a master’s program focused on transformative coaching and leadership.
Since moving back to Hawai‘i in 2022, Elliott has served as Senior Director of Policy and Public Affairs at the Hawai‘i Community Foundation, working closely with state and local leaders on legislative initiatives.
If approved, Elliott will begin his role no later than July 1.
After a national search, I’m recommending Matt Elliott as the next @HawaiiAthletics AD. With 12 years at UCLA, he’s well-qualified to lead our DI program. Mahalo to Lois Manin for her leadership as interim AD. Appointment goes to the Board on 6/16. #GoBows https://t.co/4A7AhrNIjt
— Wendy Hensel (@UHPresident) June 5, 2025
"I'm excited to welcome Matt Elliott, with his extensive experience in Division I athletics and strong roots in Hawaiʻi, to the UH 'ohana," said @UHPresident Wendy Hensel. #GoBows
— Hawaii Athletics (@HawaiiAthletics) June 5, 2025
➡️ https://t.co/BkWQEwAGdn pic.twitter.com/0754kIm3YY