Former Miami Dolphins CEO Joseph Bailey III has been appointed interim commissioner of the Big East conference for college atheletics following the resignation of John Marinatto this morning. Bailey served as the Dolphins' CEO from 2005 to 2009, before being replaced by current CEO Mike Dee.
"Joe is a proven leader who will do a terrific job guiding the conference through this time of transition," said Dr. Judy Genshaft, President of USF and Chair of the Big East Conference. "His experience as a manager and his knowledge of the sports industry make Joe uniquely qualified to serve as interim Commissioner. He will move the Conference forward with a steady-hand as we explore new opportunities."
Bailey's biggest moment with the Dolphins came when he pushed for Cam Cameron to be named the head coach following Nick Saban's abrupt departure after the 2006 season. The Dolphins were the only team to offer Cameron a head coaching position, despite multiple teams interviewing him that offseason. The Dolphins also interview Mike Tomlin, Jim Mora, Brian Schottenheimer, and Chan Gailey before settling on Cameron.
Cameron would go 1-15 in his one year as a head coach before being fired by new Vice President of Football Operations Bill Parcells and general manager Jeff Ireland. The team would turn around for one year under new head coach Tony Sparano in 2008, posting an 11-5 record and winning the AFC East.
Sparano was fired after last season, following three consecutive losing seasons.
Bailey has also held the roles of Chief Operating Officer of the World League of American Football/NFL Europe, Vice President of Administration of the Dallas Cowboys, and as the Managing Director of RSR Partners, a recruiting firm. He will hold the Big East commissioner's seat until a new, permanent, replacement is found.