This is a massive development for the future of NIL at the University of Michigan.
In a groundbreaking move for Michigan Athletics , Terése Whitehead, an esteemed executive from the NFL Players Association (NFLPA), has been appointed as the university’s first in-house Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) Executive GM in collaboration with Altius Sports Partners (ASP).
Bringing a wealth of experience in brand building and athlete marketing, Whitehead’s return to her alma mater signals a significant development in Michigan’s approach to supporting its student-athletes. With her background as Vice President of Consumer Products & Strategy at NFL Players Inc., she is primed to spearhead Michigan’s NIL program, providing athletes with the tools and resources needed to capitalize on their opportunities.
Director of Athletics Warde Manuel expressed excitement in this hire, emphasizing her impressive sports background and unique qualifications to lead U-M’s strategy.
“Terése’s addition to our team marks a pivotal moment for Michigan Athletics, and I am excited to partner with her,” Manuel said in a statement released on Wednesday. “Terése is a perfect fit and uniquely qualified to lead U-M’s strategy thanks to her impressive sports background in marketing, licensing, brand development, and partnerships and her experience across agency, league, and team settings to tailor tremendous revenue-generating opportunities for teams and individual athletes. Through this joint venture with Altius Sports Partners, I am confident that Terése will quickly navigate the shifting NIL landscape to empower and positively position our student-athletes.”
With Altius Sports Partners’ support, Whitehead will offer specialized expertise to Michigan’s athletes, coaches and administrators, guiding them through the complexities of the NIL landscape. Her role extends beyond strategy, as she will also serve as a dedicated point of contact for stakeholders, collaborating with the athletics department to enhance the overall experience for Wolverine athletes.
From her tenure at the NFLPA, where she managed a portfolio generating over $2.75 billion in sales, to her work with NBA , WNBA , and MLB players at Tandem Sports + Entertainment, Whitehead has a proven track record of success. Her expertise in marketing strategy, branding, and athlete relations will undoubtedly benefit Michigan’s athletes as they navigate NIL opportunities.
“Returning to the University of Michigan feels like a homecoming where my passion for sports and advocacy began,” Whitehead said. “My entire sports marketing journey has equipped me with invaluable experience, particularly in leveraging the individual and group NIL rights of professional athletes. Now, alongside Altius Sports Partners, I’m eager to apply that insight to empower U-M athletes in navigating the evolving landscape of NIL. Our goal is clear: support every stakeholder, elevate Michigan’s NIL initiatives, and shape futures both on and off the field. I’m committed to making a lasting impact, ensuring every Wolverine student-athlete feels supported, informed, and empowered to seize opportunities ahead.”
With the ASP GM Program, Michigan joins 17 other institutions in offering tailored education and support for NIL initiatives, further solidifying its commitment to the success of its student-athletes.