Johnathan Katona
Charleston
Summary
Seasoned Director with background in strategic planning, team leadership, and performance optimization. Known for driving company growth by developing efficient operational strategies and fostering professional relationships. Demonstrated abilities in problem solving, decision making, and communication skills to influence key stakeholders. Proven record of delivering innovative solutions and achieving organizational goals.
Overview
17
17
years of professional experience
Work History
Director of Equipment/Facility and Business Operations
Separation Sports Mgmt.
Charleston
03.2025 - Current
- Oversee equipment inventory management for a premier under-17 basketball team ensuring team members are fully equipped for national-level competitions.
- Facilitate comprehensive operational support, encompassing travel logistics, event planning, and athlete services coordination.
- Holds certification in Licensed Youth Development for NCAA events, adhering to USA Basketball regulations and standards
Director of Equipment Operations
The Citadel
02.2024 - 03.2025
- Managed athletic equipment operations for 14 NCAA Division 1 sports, facilitating a major apparel contract with primary oversight of football.
- Delivered exceptional customer service to a diverse group of athletes, staff, and coaches.
- Oversaw financial aspects including purchasing, accounting, and inventory control, managing a budget in excess of $750K while cost saving 10% from prior years
- Collaborated with senior administration to develop and implement equipment policies and procedures, enhancing operational efficiency.
- Coordinated with the university's licensing and branding office to maintain compliance with logo usage guidelines.
Assistant A.D. of Equipment Operations/ Olympic Sports
University of South Florida
05.2022 - 01.2024
- Managed athletic equipment operations for 16 NCAA Division I sports programs, ensuring adherence to contractual obligations with major suppliers.
- Oversight of comprehensive equipment logistics, including purchasing, accounting, inventory control, and budget reconciliation, effectively administering a budget exceeding $1 million in promotional funds.
- Supervised and mentored a team consisting of two full-time assistants, graduate assistants, interns and 15 student managers, enhancing the department's service quality and operational efficiency.
Director Equipment Services
University of North Carolina Wilmington
05.2020 - 05.2022
- Managed the creation and organization of a comprehensive athletic equipment room and laundry facility to support the requirements of multiple sports.
- Oversaw an athletic equipment budget, ensuring optimal allocation of $750,000 in resources and cost-effective operations in excess of 20% savings
- Negotiated contracts resulting in annual savings of $55,000 and ensured athletic apparel adherence to university licensing and trademark standards.
- Coordinated maintenance of facility infrastructure and collaborated with financial and human resources departments to facilitate effective recruitment and staffing strategies.
Head of Equipment Operations/Facilities
University of Evansville
04.2019 - 05.2020
- Developed and enforced operational policies for athletic equipment management, ensuring the integrity and maintenance of assets valued at $400,000.
- Enhanced athletic department facilities, improving workflow and utilization for staff and athletes.
- Supervised capital improvements, including the construction of new locker rooms and the installation of a turf baseball field; managed a team of 12 students and coordinated arena game day set up for basketball contests.
Director of Equipment Operations
Quinnipiac University
04.2018 - 11.2018
- Directed the overhaul of the equipment room and laundry operations to enhance efficiency in distribution of athletic gear to student-athletes.
- Negotiated and secured a contract with Adidas for the provision of athletic apparel and footwear.
Assistant Director Operations/ Equipment, Football
Howard University
01.2017 - 04.2018
- Developed and enacted policies to streamline operations, resulting in enhanced organizational efficiency; managed the renovation of athletic facilities, including the football locker room.
- Collaborated with university staff to renegotiate athletic contracts, achieving a 25% reduction in departmental spending; supported the management of an annual budget of $600,000.
Head Athletic Equipment Manager
American University
12.2008 - 12.2016
- Established and enforced operational guidelines for the equipment department, including the organization of the equipment room and laundry facilities.
- Managed procurement processes and maintained an annual inventory budget of $600,000, ensuring efficient allocation of resources.
- Coordinated with contractors for the renovation of team locker rooms and supervised a team comprising one full-time assistant and 17 student employees.
- Negotiated brand partnerships and ensured compliance with university branding protocols, while collaborating on initiatives to increase department revenue through merchandise sales.
Education
Certified Athletic Equipment Manager -
AEMA
Freeville06.2005
Harrison College
Indianapolis, IN02.2003
United States Coast Guard Training Center
Cape May, NJ12.1997
Skills
- Inventory management and procurement
- Organizational skills
- Problem solving
- Time management
- Sports safety regulations knowledge
- Interpersonal communication
- Program development
- Team leadership
- Conflict resolution
- Customer service
- Communication skills
- Strategic planning
- Operational efficiency
- Leadership development
- Facility management
- Staff supervision
Seasonal Professional Experience
- Equipment Manager, Arena Football League (AFL)
- Training Camp Equipment Assistant, New York Jets (NFL)
- Training Camp Equipment Assistant, USA Basketball (W)
- Team Attendant, Washington Wizards (NBA)
Timeline
Director of Equipment/Facility and Business Operations
Separation Sports Mgmt.
03.2025 - Current
Director of Equipment Operations
The Citadel
02.2024 - 03.2025
Assistant A.D. of Equipment Operations/ Olympic Sports
University of South Florida
05.2022 - 01.2024
Director Equipment Services
University of North Carolina Wilmington
05.2020 - 05.2022
Head of Equipment Operations/Facilities
University of Evansville
04.2019 - 05.2020
Director of Equipment Operations
Quinnipiac University
04.2018 - 11.2018
Assistant Director Operations/ Equipment, Football
Howard University
01.2017 - 04.2018
Head Athletic Equipment Manager
American University
12.2008 - 12.2016
Certified Athletic Equipment Manager -
AEMA
Harrison College
United States Coast Guard Training Center