Gene DeFilippo

Former Managing Director of Athletics Administration & Coaching, TurnkeyZRG Division

Gene DeFilippo is a seasoned leader in intercollegiate athletics, known for his impact as Director of Athletics at Boston College and Villanova University. At Boston College, where he served for 15 years, Gene guided the athletics program to unprecedented heights, playing a pivotal role in the university’s transition to the ACC. Prior to this, and during his tenure at Villanova University, he was appointed to the NCAA Division I Management Council, reflecting his leadership commitment to advancing collegiate athletics. Most recently, Gene served as the Managing Director of Athletics Administration & Coaching at TurnkeyZRG, a leading executive search firm in college athletics, where he facilitated the placement of athletic directors at esteemed institutions such as Alabama, Georgia Tech, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, Tennessee, and USC. His extensive network and deep understanding of collegiate sports have made him a trusted advisor and executive recruiter in the industry. Gene’s contributions extend beyond his administrative roles. He serves on the Board of Trustees and Honors Court for the National Football Foundation, as well as in leadership positions with the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA), including President. His exceptional service to college athletics was recognized with the 2024 James J. Corbett Memorial Award, NACDA’s highest honor. Earlier in his career, Gene honed his skills as an associate athletic director at the University of Kentucky and as an assistant football coach at Vanderbilt and Youngstown State. He holds a master’s degree in educational administration from the University of Tennessee, further underscoring his lifelong commitment to advancing collegiate athletics.