The Big 12 Conference today announced a refinement of its organizational design to further align operations, elevate its basketball brand, and position the Conference for continued growth.
 
Chief Financial Officer, Nick Bowes, will take on an expanded role as Chief Operating Officer, with oversight of sales, marketing, communications and student-athlete services, in addition to his current responsibilities. In this role, he will enhance operational efficiencies across the business of the Big 12.
 
The Big 12 has also promoted four leaders across key verticals and growth areas, each assuming expanded responsibilities to better support the Conference’s priorities. Kauri Black has been promoted to Vice President – Broadcast & Emerging Platforms, Andy Louthain to Vice President – Compliance & Governance, Katie Ristow to Vice President – Brand & Marketing, and Keena Lynch to Assistant Vice President – Content & Digital Media.
 
Additionally, Brian Thornton has been elevated to Chief Basketball Officer, where he will provide holistic and strategic direction for the Big 12’s men’s and women’s basketball initiatives, partnering closely with the Conference’s Vice President of Women’s Basketball, Dayna Scherf. This unified structure brings both sports together under one vision to strengthen The Big 12’s basketball brand with an increased focus on elevating the women’s game, and maximizing synergies and value creation across both programs. A new Director of Men’s Basketball Operations will be named at a later date.
 
“These changes reflect our continued evolution of the Big 12 while also recognizing key leaders and contributors at the Conference,” said Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark.