The NCAA has named Tim Buckley senior vice president of external affairs. Buckley brings more than 15 years of experience in government relations, political communications, and public affairs strategy to the Association. He starts the position on March 1.
"Tim's experience will be vital as we work with policy makers across the country to build a responsible and sustainable future for college athletics," said incoming NCAA President Charlie Baker. "Tim's ability to work across complex organizations and deliver results will be an asset as the Association works through the rapidly changing regulatory environment for college athletics." Â
As senior vice president of external affairs at the NCAA, Buckley will oversee the Association's government relations and communications efforts to strengthen relationships with key constituents at the state and federal levels. Buckley will also engage membership, media, policymakers, coalitions, and other stakeholders to advance the NCAA's mission and goals.
"It is an honor to join so many talented professionals both at the NCAA and across the membership working to advance the interests of student-athletes," said Buckley. "Whether it be my years working alongside public servants at every level of government or in the pressure cookers of hotly contested campaigns, I am excited to bring my experience to such an important organization at a pivotal time."
Having served in multiple senior positions in state government, most recently as chief of staff to former Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker, Buckley has extensive knowledge and proven experience crafting winning strategies for complex organizations. As chief of staff, Buckley led a team to advance Governor Baker's initiatives including legislative priorities and administrative goals across the 40,000-member executive branch with a $50 billion annual budget.
Before becoming chief of staff, Buckley oversaw government relations, legislative affairs and federal affairs while managing communications efforts across the Executive Branch of state government. Buckley helped shape Governor Baker's bipartisan brand and guided his administration through multiple crises and complex policy challenges, including the state's COVID-19 response.
Buckley also served as communications director for Baker's successful 2014 campaign for governor and advised communications efforts for several statewide campaigns in Massachusetts. Buckley graduated from Colorado College with a Bachelor of Arts in political science.
