When Rob Spear was hired on Jan. 12, it was with a commitment to the long term for Vandal Athletics.

Spear, who served as UI's interim director of athletics prior to his permanent appointment, acknowledged there are challenges ahead but said he welcomes the opportunity and the long-term commitment.

"I've learned, yes, we have challenges," Spear said. "And no, they are not insurmountable.

"Vandal athletics has a rich and proud tradition in every arena of competition and a history of success in the classroom. My mission is to continue those traditions while at the same time looking toward and building for what promises to be a bright future."

Spear was launched into the heat of battle immediately. His first task was replacing a football staff, which was followed by hiring a coach for UI's reborn swim program, and then solidifying the Vandals' conference affiliation. In a matter of months, he confronted more major issues than some ADs face in a career.

That trial by fire didn't phase Spear. His ability to remain unflappable through it all was one of the prime reasons then interim president Gary Michael sought him to lead the department.

"Often times the inherent visibility of athletics makes it the first point of contact to a university," Michael said at Spear's hiring. "We want to make sure we successfully utilize this front door. To do that, we need to make a commitment to its stability and viability.

"Rob has the background and skills to lead Vandal athletics through the tough terrain ahead as well as to manage the day-to-day operations. I was impressed with the leadership he brought to the interim position. I expect that performance endure."

Spear, a competitor since his childhood days in Butte, Mont., said he welcomed the challenge of leading the department.

"There is an undercurrent of energy in an athletics department that you don't see everywhere," Spear said. "We faced some challenges immediately but I believe we made the decisions that will enable Vandal athletics to continue to grow and develop athletically and academically."

Spear has been at UI since 1989 and for the six months prior to his athletics appointment was UI's interim assistant financial vice president. He started his UI career as an internal auditor and he later worked in grants contracts. More recently, Spear has been an Assistant Vice President for University Outreach in the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences.

Always a fan of Vandal athletics, Spear said his introduction to the inner workings of the department has been rewarding.

"When you've been involved in athletics, just having the opportunity is a once-in-a-lifetime thing," he said. "I wanted to seize that opportunity."