Ron Rivera Named General Manager of Cal Football Program

The former NFL coach and Cal linebacker will focus on revenue generation, fundraising, and leadership in a newly created role.

UC Berkeley officially announced Ron Rivera as the new general manager of the California Golden Bears football program on March 20, 2025.
Rivera's role, funded by private donations, aims to address challenges like student-athlete compensation and transfer portal dynamics.
He will report directly to Chancellor Rich Lyons, while head coach Justin Wilcox continues to report to Athletic Director Jim Knowlton.
Rivera, a Cal Athletics Hall of Famer, brings decades of NFL experience as both a player and coach, including two NFL Coach of the Year awards.
This hiring reflects a broader trend in college football, with other programs also appointing high-profile figures to similar positions.