The International Surfing Association [ISA] named Liam Ferguson as its new Director General effective immediately.
At the same time, Bob Mignogna has resigned his position, and will remain on as a Senior Advisor to the ISA President and the organization as it pursues its Olympic ambitions.

Mignogna was named ISA Director General in March 2010 and was responsible for running the day-to-day operations of the organization. During his time as Director General, the ISA experienced tremendous growth in ISA events, expanded its educational programs, and ISA membership grew from 57 to 86 nations.

Ferguson is a veteran of the surfing industry with 25 years of professional experience in the action sports community including most recently as ASP Vice President of Sponsorship Integration. Having held high-level leadership positions in management, marketing and media, Ferguson is one of the most respected executives in the industry and will bring an exceptional breadth of business experience to the ISA.

“I am excited about this transition in the leadership of our organization,” said Fernando Aguerre, ISA President. “This new structure not only expands and strengthens the ISA with the addition of Liam’s outstanding leadership, experience and skills, but also enables us to continue to benefit from Bob’s wisdom and exceptional career in the surfing industry”.

“I truly appreciate what Bob has helped me accomplish at the ISA during his time with the organization,” Aguerre continued. “Most importantly by taking care of the day to day, he allowed me to spend my energy and time in key strategic matters for the ISA and its member federations, and of course working with the Olympic Movement towards the inclusion of surfing in the Olympic Games. I will continue to seek his counsel and advice on various matters, and am happy that he will remain involved with the ISA in an honorary capacity. Muchas gracias Bob.”

“My passion for the ISA and especially for working with Fernando has never waned during my 4-1/2 years with the organization,” said Mignogna. “At this stage in my life, I decided that I want to spend more time with my family, including my five grandchildren.  I am grateful to Fernando for his leadership, mentorship and friendship and appreciate very much his request that I remain involved during and after the transition.  I am looking forward to using the knowledge and experience gained at the ISA to build the next chapter in my 40-year surf industry career.  I am honored to accept the ISA’s Senior Advisor position, and to continuing to help the ISA achieve Duke Kahanamoku’s Olympic Surfing dream.”  

“I am honored and excited to join Fernando and the growing family of member countries in the International Surfing Association”, said Ferguson. “This is a unique opportunity to blend my 25 years of surf industry expertise with the ISA’s goal of developing surfing globally. I am very proud to join this organization that brings together top athletes from around the world regardless of race, religion and cultural differences to share the fun surfing lifestyle. I am especially looking forward to offering my contribution and support to the ISA’s important mission of having surfing included in the Olympic Games.”