Director of Athletics Ross Bjork leaving Texas A&M for Ohio State University

Headed to Columbus.

On Tuesday afternoon, it was confirmed that Texas A&M Director of Athletics Ross Bjork has been hired by Ohio State University in a similar role.

News that Bjork was among Ohio State's top targets was reported by ESPN's Pete Thamel on Monday.

“Ross Bjork has played a pivotal role in advancing Texas A&M University’s athletics programs and contributing to the overall success of our student-athletes," Texas A&M President Mark A. Welsh III said via a release. "We extend our heartfelt gratitude for the lasting impact he has had on our student-athletes, coaches, staff and the 12th Man. We wish him great success as he joins the tremendous leadership team at Ohio State University; they are lucky to have him and his family. All of us at Texas A&M are committed to maintaining the momentum of our athletics programs. A committee will be formed quickly to identify a new Director of Athletics, and I look forward to welcoming that leader to Aggieland as soon as possible.”

Bjork will succeed Gene Smith, who is retiring on June 30, 2024. Per Ohio State, Bjork's tenure in Columbus will officially begin on July 1.

Since his arrival in College Station in May of 2019, Bjork guided the A&M athletic department through the COVID-19 pandemic and helped launch the Centennial Campaign, a $120 million fundraising endeavor.

Bjork also helped A&M athletics bring in new coaches such as Mike Elko, Jim Schlossnagle, Joni Taylor, Trisha Ford and Gerrod Chadwell, as well as elevating Brian Kortan from interim status.

With Bjork moving to the Big Ten, Texas A&M now begins searching for its fifth athletic director since 2012.