South Carolina Names Wesley Mallette as New Deputy AD and Chief Marketing Officer
The University of South Carolina has officially hired Wesley Mallette, the former Athletics Director at UC Riverside, as the school’s new Chief Marketing Officer and Deputy Athletics Director, the university announced Wednesday.
“We are thrilled to welcome Wes and his family to South Carolina,” said Athletic Director Jeremiah Donati. “He quickly rose to the top of a highly competitive pool of candidates. Wes brings unmatched energy and broad experience across every aspect of athletics—from marketing and branding to NIL and communications. He will be a tremendous asset to our leadership team and a powerful advocate for our student-athletes.”
A Proven Leader at UC Riverside
Mallette joined UC Riverside in 2018 and took over as AD in 2021 during one of the most challenging periods in school history. With the entire 17-sport program facing potential shutdown during the COVID-19 pandemic, Mallette stepped up and helped keep the department afloat. Since then, UCR athletics has reached new highs in performance and academics under his leadership.
Notably, Mallette secured a high-profile Nike/BSN SPORTS apparel deal and helped the school achieve its most successful fundraising year ever in 2024–25. His work with the men’s basketball program earned him back-to-back recognition by Silver Waves Media as one of the Top 100 most influential figures in men’s college basketball.
A Branding Expert and Innovator
Before becoming AD, Mallette served as Chief of Staff and Senior Associate AD for External Affairs at UCR. He led all areas related to branding, communications, fan engagement, ticketing, and sponsorships—ultimately driving a complete brand transformation. His experience also includes a stint as VP of Communications at Pac-12 Networks and time at Cal Athletics, where he guided the department through crises while leading strategic communications.
“I am truly honored to join the University of South Carolina and Gamecock Athletics,” Mallette said. “To be part of a talented team committed to student-athlete success is a dream come true. I’m thankful to AD Donati for the opportunity and can’t wait to contribute to the continued growth and excellence of Gamecock Athletics.”
An Impact Felt Across the Industry
Mallette’s appointment has drawn widespread praise from respected voices in college sports:
- Greg Byrne, Alabama AD: “Wesley brings a creative mind and broad understanding of college athletics. South Carolina made a fantastic hire.”
- Dan Butterly, Big West Commissioner: “Wes has been an extraordinary leader… South Carolina is gaining a true star.”
- Sandy Barbour, former Penn State AD: “He’s tailor-made for today’s environment—business-savvy, athlete-focused, and incredibly humble.”
- Adam Stanco, CBS Sports: “One of the most significant hires I’ve seen. Wes is relentless in finding the best outcomes for student-athletes.”
- Mike Yam, NFL Network: “His leadership and care for people make him a perfect fit for South Carolina.”
- Mike Magpayo, Fordham Basketball Coach: “Wes was our Ted Lasso at UCR. His belief and willpower created a culture of excellence.”
- Paula Smith, UC Irvine AD: “He’s not just respected—he’s trusted. Wes makes a lasting impact wherever he goes.”
About Wesley Mallette
Mallette earned his B.A. in Communications from James Madison University, where he was a two-sport D-I athlete (football and track), and holds a Master’s in Journalism from the University of Maryland. His professional background includes senior marketing roles at MTV Networks, BET, Victoria’s Secret, and Bath & Body Works.
He is married to Melody Stockwell and is the proud father of Houston, a graduate basketball player at Alabama, and Soledad, a standout high school basketball student-athlete in California.
Wes Mallette arrives in Columbia with a vision, a track record of transformation, and a passion for student-athlete success. His impact on Gamecock Athletics could be monumental.
