St Augustine, United States: Pete Bevacqua, the PGA of America’s Chief Executive Officer, has been named Chairman of the World Golf Foundation (WGF)’s Board of Directors for 2015.
Bevacqua succeeds Tim Finchem, Commissioner of the PGA Tour, who served as the 2014 Board Chairman.
Bevacqua became the PGA of America’s third CEO in November 2012. He guides the staff of the world’s largest sports organisation in their dedication and service to the association’s 28,000 men and women PGA Professionals, as well as to the golf industry.
In addition to his WGF role, Bevacqua serves as a member of leadership teams for the PGA World Alliance, GOLF 20/20 Executive Committee and the International Golf Federation’s work that will return golf to the Olympic Games in 2016.
Before joining the PGA of America, he served as Chief Business Officer of the United States Golf Association (USGA) and Head of Global Golf for CAA Sports.
“Since joining the PGA of America over two years ago, I’ve enjoyed working closely with leaders of the game’s most influential organisations to create a more collaborative industry,” said Bevacqua.
“It’s an honour to be selected as Chairman and I look forward to furthering our work in creating greater accessibility and sustainability to ensure golf’s continued vitality.”
Steve Mona, CEO of WGF, said: “Pete has a wealth of golf industry experience in a variety of roles and we look forward to his leadership in 2015.”
Along with Bevacqua and Finchem, other WGF Board members include Mike Davis, Executive Director of the USGA; Peter Dawson, Chief Executive of The R&A; Will Jones, Executive Director of The Masters Tournament Foundation; George O’Grady, Chief Executive of the PGA European Tour; and Mike Whan, Commissioner of the Ladies Professional Golf Association.
Chris Normyle, Manager, Sponsorships and Events of the Shell Oil Company, also serves on the WGF Board as a representative of WGF’s Founding Partner.