MADISON, Wis. -- The University of Wisconsin-Madison is tops academically and it's often a winner in athletics, but, its next leader won't have a salary that's near the top of any chart.

Experts said that the search to replace outgoing Chancellor John Wiley could be hindered by the compensation offered.

Wiley leaves his job in September after seven years as chancellor. He earns $267,000 from the state and $55,000 under a contract with the university's private foundation.

His compensation is the lowest among leaders at the university's peer institutions, which includes seven public Big 10 schools and universities in California, Washington and Texas. On average, Wiley's salary is $115,000 behind them.

David Walsh, the chairman of the regents selection committee, said that compensation will be a "significant obstacle."

UW Foundation President Sandy Wilcox said that it would be nice to be proud of what the Madison chancellor earns, "instead of embarrassed by it."