Ex-Billabong exec joins World Surf League
A FORMER Billabong executive – who rode rough waves at the company before it was bought out by Boardriders – has jumped over to the World Surf League.
Scott Hargreaves, who held the positions of men’s marketing manager at Billabong Australia and, most recently, global vice president of men’s marketing at Billabong International, has been appointed commercial director for Australia, Asia and Oceania at WSL.
He will be based at WSL’s Coolangatta office and start his new position in January.
The World Surf League organises an annual tour of professional surf competitions.
WSL CEO Sophie Goldschmidt said Mr Hargreaves was a respected professional in the surf industry.
“Having gained experience from managing and driving revenue for marquee surf brands and event programs, managing athlete rosters and large-scale digital and retail marketing campaigns, Scott has the perfect skillset to make the most of the opportunities that exist in the coming years for WSL and surfing,” she said.
Mr Hargreaves will work with WSL general manager Andrew Stark and Kelly Slater Wave Co Australia.
The WSL is keen to bring a wave pool, like Kelly Slater’s in California to Australia, preferably to the Gold Coast.
Mr Hargreaves said he was excited to be a part of shaping the future of professional surfing.
“Back in 1999 I sat on the beach in Hawaii and watched the entire Pipe Masters unfold,” he said.
“It was such a pivotal moment in my life and one that shaped my career in the surf industry. It was then when I realised I needed to be part of pro surfing. Today, I’m confident my understanding and respect ... will provide value on many levels for the WSL and the organisation’s key partners.”