The LPGA chose Craig Kessler as its next commissioner and turned its eye to the American Chief Operating Officer PGA to help the 75-year-old league make better use of the growth of women’s sports.
The 39-year-old Kessler is the 10th commissioner in LPGA history and replaced Mollie Marcoux Samaan, who resigned in January three and a half years later. He will officially take over on July 15th.
“I don’t think this is one of the opportunities we can start with a 100-day listening. It’s time to explode from the gate,” Kessler said.
He said the main goal is to create a culture where anyone who sees LPGA says, “I have to be a part of it.”
A Georgetown alumnus with a Harvard Business School MBA, Kessler has been with the PGA of America for over two years and was a candidate to become CEO until the organization wanted golf experts in the role and hired Derex Plug.
“We are pleased to announce that we are a 100% LPGA board of directors,” said John Weimeyer, chairman of KPMG.
“Craig is an inspiring and engaging leader, bringing a unique mix of executive leadership experiences, deep relationships in the golf industry, and a true commitment to elevating women and girls through golf.”
Two years ago at PGA of America, Kessler was CEO of Buff City Soap and COO of Topgolf when it expanded from 100 to 260 stores. He also spent six years as an operating partner in private equity, initially with Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Company at Providence Equity.
“This isn’t just about leading the sports organization, it’s about redefineing what’s possible,” Kessler said. “This role is very personal to me, not just as a professional opportunity, but as an opportunity to make a difference in the world and create new opportunities for others.”
Chief Legal and Technical Officer Liz Moore will remain in the interim committee until July 15th.
LPGA celebrates its 75th anniversary this year and is operated independently of the PGA Tour. This year’s gross awards fund is approaching $130 million as women get more corporate support.
Women’s sports across the landscape saw a surge in money and interest, but the LPGA is behind the attention of the company, with five consecutive tournaments last year, winning Olympic gold medals to qualify for the LPGA Hall of Fame, and women’s wins at the British Open.