LEXINGTON, Ky. (WMDJ) — The University of Kentucky has named J Batt as its new Athletics Director and Chief Executive Officer of Champions Blue LLC.

Batt comes to Kentucky from Michigan State University, where he served as Vice President and Director of Athletics. He previously held leadership positions at Georgia Tech and the University of Alabama.

According to UK, Batt has a track record of record-setting fundraising, facility development and creating new revenue opportunities while overseeing successful athletic programs.

He will succeed Mitch Barnhart, who is retiring at the end of June after nearly 25 years leading UK Athletics. During Barnhart’s tenure, Kentucky won six NCAA championships and more than 60 conference or conference tournament titles.

Batt is expected to officially join the university later this summer.