The Surf Industry Manufacturers Association (SIMA) announced that Chad DiNenna, co-founder and director of marketing for Nixon, has been elected as vice president of SIMA.  Former vice president, Paul Naude, CEO of Billabong USA, moved to the Senior Advisory Board


Greg Macias, vice president of marketing for Quiksilver, continues to serve on the SIMA Board of Directors and has been elected as the Secretary of SIMA. Joel Cooper, CEO of Lost International, was elected to continue his position as SIMA Treasurer, and Dick Baker will now serve as chairman emeritus.
 
“It’s an honor to have been selected for this role,” said DiNenna on being elected as SIMA Vice President.  “Our industry is made up of so many talented individuals. I still have a lot to learn, and through this learning I am confident I can bring relevant material to the SIMA table that reflects the needs and wants of the industry.”
 
There are three new faces in the overall SIMA line up. Mark Price, President of Firewire Surfboards, will begin with SIMA as an elected member of the Board of Directors.  Jesse Faen, CEO of Insight, and Mark Tinkess, Executive Vice President of Von Zipper, will join SIMA for the first time as members of the Advisory Board. 
 
“I’ve watched SIMA go from strength to strength and it is a force within the industry, initiating and influencing a wide range of issues,” said Mark Price on being elected to the Board of Directors.  “I’m excited about the opportunity to play a role in SIMA’s ongoing success.”
 
Other moves include Bruce Beach, Co-President and CEO of Electric, and Candy Harris, Billabong USA’s Women’s Brand Director, transitioning from the SIMA Advisory Board to elected positions on the SIMA Board of Directors.
 
“Nominating new officers, directors, and advisory board members with fresh blood and an unbiased dedication to the surf industry were top priorities for the Board of Directors and SIMA Nominating Committee,” said SIMA Executive Director, Sean Smith.  “Regarding the new SIMA officers, Chad and Greg will bring great new perspectives and Dick and Joel will be able to use their seasoned experience to mentor them into their new roles – creating the perfect balance.”