The search has begun for a new person in charge of SMU’s athletic department. After over a decade as the Mustangs' athletic director, Rick Hart announced Friday that he would be leaving his role at the end of the school year to make way for new president Jay Hartzell to carry out his vision for SMU athletics.

SMU has invested more than $250 million in athletic facilities since 2013, including renovating and updating Moody Coliseum.

DALLAS ( SMU) – Today, SMU President R. Gerald Turner announced the creation of a Search Committee for a new Director of Athletics as well as the retention of a nationally recognized search firm to assist in the process.

Hart leaves what's expected to be a highly sought-after job following SMU's conference switch and CFP appearance.