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Mike Whan,
outgoing commissioner of the LPGA, will become the chief
executive officer of the USGA later this year.
"Mike Whan is a proven, successful and transformative leader,
not only in the golf industry but throughout his entire career,"
said USGA president Stu Francis, who announced Whan's hiring on
Wednesday. "He has shown a unique ability to understand how the
environment is changing in global golf and how to quickly and
thoughtfully adapt an organization to meet those changes.
Importantly, Mike is already a trusted peer for so many key
stakeholders in the industry, and his existing relationships
will not only help the USGA, but will also help advance the
game."
Whan, 56, announced in January he was stepping down after 11
years as commissioner of the LPGA. He is the longest-serving
commissioner in the history of the Ladies Professional Golf
Association.
He will be responsible for all aspects of USGA operations.
"As someone who grew up loving this game, I have always had huge
respect for the USGA and its role in leading our sport," Whan
said. "The game has given me so much throughout my life, both
personally and professionally. I know I have a lot to learn, but
I'm truly excited about this role, as it gives me the
opportunity to not only give back to the game, but to also work
hard to leave it stronger."
Whan worked for Procter & Gamble, Wilson Sporting Goods,
TaylorMade Golf Company, Britesmile Inc. and Mission Hockey
before joining the LPGA.
With the women's tour, he has been credited with increasing the
number of tournaments from 24 to 34, growing event purses from
$41.4 million to $76.5 million, seeing television broadcast
coverage hours expand from 125 hours per season to more than 500
and forming the Symetra Tour.
Current CEO Mike Davis is departing the USGA later this year to
work in the golf course design business.
(Field Level Media)
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