Tim Harris is a UCLA alumnus and All-American student-athlete who brings more than 36 years of experience in professional sports and business leadership. He currently serves as Chief Executive Officer and Director of UCLA Athletics, helping lead the department's efforts to build a stronger, more sustainable and nationally competitive future for Bruin Athletics.
Harris spent more than three decades with the Los Angeles Lakers, most recently as President of Business Operations. In that role, he oversaw the organization's business strategy and day-to-day business operations, including sponsorships, ticketing, broadcasting, marketing, game entertainment, media relations and community relations. He played a central role in growing one of the world's most recognizable sports brands, negotiating transformative media agreements, developing innovative corporate partnerships and creating new revenue opportunities that helped position the Lakers as a global leader in professional sports.
Among his accomplishments, Harris helped negotiate one of the largest regional TV deals in sports through the Lakers' long-term partnership with Spectrum SportsNet. He also spearheaded the team's relationship with UCLA Health and was instrumental in the development of the state-of-the-art UCLA Health Training Center. He also led efforts to secure several landmark corporate partnerships, including the organization's first global marketing partnership.
Harris began his career with the Lakers in 1990, working for Lakers owner Dr. Jerry Buss. He played a key role in the Lakers' transition from the Great Western Forum to STAPLES Center and eventually rose through the organization to become one of the most respected business executives in professional sports. He also served as an Alternate Governor for the Lakers and represented the franchise at NBA team president meetings.
A Southern California native, Harris was a standout goalkeeper for UCLA Men's Soccer from 1980-83. He earned All-America honors in 1983 and finished his collegiate career among the winningest goalkeepers in program history.
Following his UCLA career, Harris played professional soccer for five seasons, including three years with the Los Angeles Lazers of the Major Indoor Soccer League. He also represented the United States Men's National Team in 1985.
Harris grew up in Torrance, California and earned his bachelor's degree in sociology from UCLA.