The University of Alabama board of trustees unanimously approved Bill Battle as UA’s new athletics director in a conference call Friday. Battle replaces Mal Moore, who stepped down Wednesday due to health concerns and will remain on staff as special assistant to the president and athletics director emeritus.

While details of Battle’s contract have not been finalized, UA President Judy Bonner recommended a $620,000 salary with a four-year term similar to that of Moore’s.

Battle was a three-year starter for the Crimson Tide from 1960-62 under legendary coach Paul “Bear” Bryant and was a member of the 1961 national championship team. He later served as head coach at the University of Tennessee from 1970 – 1976.

His business experience includes founding the Collegiate Licensing Company in 1981 and serving as president and CEO until 2002.

UA will hold a press conference at 11:30 a.m. to officially announce the hire. The Crimson White will have more information, including photos and videos, throughout the day.