USA Swimming Hires Cory Hilliard as Chief Financial Officer
USA Swimming has continued its executive suite build-out by announcing the hiring of Cory Hilliard as Chief Financial Officer on Tuesday.
Hilliard had spent the last 18 years at the University of Colorado in Boulder, rising to the role of Senior Associate Athletic Director for Business Operations/CFO. He oversaw a budget of more than $135 million for 17 Division I programs (though, incidentally, not a swimming or diving program, which had been discontinued in the 1970s). He stepped down from the Buffaloes program in August.
“I am thrilled to join USA Swimming and contribute to an organization whose mission and impact I deeply admire,” Hilliard said in a USA Swimming press release. “I look forward to partnering with our Board, staff, and swimming community to support long-term sustainability, strengthen operational efficiency, and ensure financial strategies that advance athletes and the sport at every level.”
Hilliard joins the executive leadership team in charge of financial strategy, fiscal operations and long-range planning. He replaces Eric Skufca, who left in September to join a non-profit organization in Arizona.
From the press release:
A trusted advisor within the athletic department’s executive leadership team, Hilliard contributed to major partnership negotiations that generated new revenue across apparel, multimedia rights, concessions, and licensing. Hilliard is widely recognized for his collaborative, data-driven approach and for building strong relationships with governing boards, university leadership, auditors, and campus partners.
“Cory brings extraordinary financial discipline, operational expertise, and a strong track record of transparent leadership,” said Kevin Ring, USA Swimming President and CEO. “His experience navigating complex governance structures and delivering sound fiscal stewardship will be invaluable as USA Swimming continues strengthening its financial foundation and long-term planning.”
Hilliard holds a bachelor’s degree from Minnesota State University, Moorhead and an MBA from the University of North Dakota. He will remain in Colorado, working out of USA Swimming’s headquarters in Colorado Springs.
