Experienced golf executive and proven business leader selected to lead LPGA’s next era of global growth
DAYTONA BEACH, Florida – The Ladies Professional Golf Association has announced that its Board of Directors has elected Craig Kessler as the organization’s 10th Commissioner.
The appointment comes during the LPGA’s landmark 75th anniversary season, marking a pivotal moment of global growth and opportunity for one of the most enduring and respected leaders in women’s professional sports worldwide.
Kessler was selected following a rigorous and comprehensive global search, led by the LPGA Board’s Search Committee and shaped by input from LPGA Tour athletes, partners, staff and key stakeholders.
“We set out to find a transformational leader with a deep appreciation for the LPGA’s legacy and a clear vision of what’s possible for our future,” said John B. Veihmeyer, Chair of the LPGA Board of Directors. “Craig is an inspiring and engaging leader, who brings a unique mix of executive leadership experience, deep relationships in the golf industry, and a genuine commitment to elevating women and girls through golf.
“The LPGA has never been more dynamic – and Craig is exactly the right leader to drive its next era of growth and impact.”
Kessler brings a broad and impressive range of experiences across sports, business, private equity and entrepreneurship. Most recently, he served as Chief Operating Officer of the PGA of America, where he oversaw all operations of the 30,000-member organization, including its non-profit foundation.
He previously served as Chief Executive Officer of Buff City Soap, a fast-growing experiential retail company that expanded from 100 to 260 stores under his leadership. Earlier in his career, Kessler also served as Chief Operating Officer at Topgolf, where he helped scale the company’s groundbreaking blend of sports, entertainment and technology.
In addition to his executive roles, Kessler brings board-level experience with the National Golf Foundation, UT Southwestern hospital system, and the Dallas Mavericks Advisory Board. He began his career at McKinsey & Company and went on to leadership positions at Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co. (KKR) and Providence Equity Partners.
His track record includes evaluating investments and working alongside management teams to improve company performance – skills he now brings to one of the world’s premier women’s sports organizations.
“The LPGA stands at the intersection of world-class competition and global impact,” said Kessler, incoming LPGA Commissioner. “From young girls who are picking up a club for the first time, to the LPGA Professionals helping teach this great game to people around the world, to the incredible athletes competing on Tour—the LPGA is driving the future of golf. I’m honored to join this powerful movement and eager to help build what comes next—together.”
“This isn’t just about leading a sports organization – it’s about redefining what’s possible,” Kessler added. “This role is deeply personal to me – not just as a professional opportunity, but as a chance to make a difference in the world and create new opportunities for others. Golf changes lives. I believe in the LPGA’s mission, its members and its momentum. I can’t wait to get started.”
Kessler will officially step into the role on July 15, succeeding Mollie Marcoux Samaan, who stepped down in January 2025. Liz Moore will continue as Interim Commissioner until that time. Veihmeyer added, “Liz has done an exceptional job in the interim role, and we look forward to the many important contributions she will continue to make to the LPGA in the future.”
The LPGA’s 2025 Board of Directors is composed of the Commissioner, eight LPGA Members and six Independent Directors.
LPGA Members:
- Vicki Goetze-Ackerman – President, LPGA Tour
- Louise Ball – LPGA Professionals President
- Ashleigh Buhai – Player Director
- Gemma Dryburgh – Player Director
- Hannah Green – Player Director
- Andrea Lee – Player Director
- Stephanie Meadow – Player Director
- Elizabeth Szokol – Player Director
Independent Directors:
- John Veihmeyer, retired Chairman, KPMG International; Chair of the LPGA Board
- Madeleine Kleiner, retired Executive Vice President and General Counsel, Hilton Hotel Corporation; Vice Chair of the LPGA Board
- Richard Drucker, Partner and General Counsel, Cornell Capital
- Chris Halpin, Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer, IAC
- Michele Meyer-Shipp, Esq., Chief Executive Officer, Dress for Success Worldwide; Chair of the Human Resources Committee
- Steve Mills, former President and General Manager, New York Knicks
The Search Committee was composed of five LPGA members: Louise Ball, Ashleigh Buhai, Vicki Goetze-Ackerman, Stacy Lewis and Stephanie Meadow; and three independent directors: Madeleine Kleiner, Michele Meyer-Shipp and John Veihmeyer.
The Search Committee received exceptional support from Elevate Talent throughout the process