Conference USA Judy MacLeod announced on Thursday that Merton Hanks has been named Senior Associate Commissioner for the league. He will be responsible for managing all of the conference's operations for football and baseball.

Hanks comes to C-USA following 13 seasons with the National Football League office, where he served as Vice President, Football Operations & Compliance since 2011. In that role, he served as the NFL Compliance Appeals officer, instituted safety and equipment upgrades, and coordinated departmental business strategy. Hanks served as the Co-Chair of the NFL College Relations and Campus Visitation Committee and served as the lead liaison to AFCA, NFLPA, NCAA and NFL club administration. Prior to his promotion to Vice President in 2011, Hanks served in the NFL's Football Operations and Consumer Products areas for eight years.

"We are very excited to welcome Merton to our senior management team," MacLeod said. "The qualities, experiences, skill set and overall perspective he brings will enable him to make an immediate impact and provide meaningful service to our membership."

Hanks played safety for the San Francisco 49ers from 1991-98 and racked up 474 tackles, 31 interceptions, 10 fumble recoveries and four total touchdowns during his tenure in the Bay Area. The safety originally joined the team as a fifth-round pick (122nd overall) out of Iowa in the 1991 NFL Draft. Hanks made four Pro Bowls and was named All-Pro one time.

"I am thrilled to be joining Conference USA," Hanks said. "The dynamic vision of Commissioner MacLeod, the passionate conference staff and clear commitment to serving the student athlete make for a great fit."

Here's are what others are saying about the former 49ers defensive back joining C-USA:Roger Goodell, NFL Commissioner
"Merton has always been profoundly dedicated to our game, first as an outstanding NFL player and later as an executive in our office. His ability to build relationships with contributors at every level of our sport, from youth football to college coaches, NFL executives, and some of the very best players to ever compete on an NFL field, is a great example of how well he works with people. We wish Merton all the best as he embarks on his next challenge with Conference USA."Eddie DeBartolo Jr., Pro Football Hall of Fame owner for the 49ers and five-time Super Bowl Champion
"Merton was a big reason for our Super Bowl success as a safety for the 49ers. His experience as a player at the highest level of football and as an executive in the NFL office gives Merton a unique perspective to help lead Conference USA. He and his wife Marva have a terrific family and their new community is going to love them as much as we do."Bill Hancock, College Football Playoff Executive Director
"I have enjoyed working with Merton through the years. It's great that he will be working in the college world now at Conference USA."Ray Anderson, Arizona State Vice President/Athletics Director
"Conference USA and Commissioner MacLeod have made a wise decision in adding Merton Hanks as its Senior Associate Commissioner. During my entire experience with Merton at the NFL showed his sharp administrative skills. More importantly, he has incredible people skills and will serve the Conference very well."