"Bevacqua’s exit leaves questions for PGA"

Alex Miceli offers up several thoughts on where Pete Bevacqua's departure leaves the PGA of America as it considers a headquarter move and a new television contract. 

On the Frisco move:

One will be the reported move of PGA headquarters from Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., to Frisco, Texas, near Dallas. The next CEO surely would want a say in the decision. Considering that it took more than five months for Bevacqua to be named CEO, the move to Frisco might be on life support while waiting for the PGA’s new boss. It still could be an issue for the new CEO, if a move is determined to be necessary.

The news did bring PGA of America President Paul Levy out of hiding following his June DUI arrest. Levy faces an August 2nd court date. His letter to members:

I’m writing today with news that Pete Bevacqua has resigned as our CEO to become president of the NBC Sports Group.  His resignation is effective Monday, August 13, upon conclusion of the 2018 PGA Championship. 

We are grateful to Pete for his many contributions in nearly six years as our CEO.

Under Pete’s leadership, we advanced our mission to grow the game and serve our members in many ways:  We developed and implemented a long-term strategic growth plan; made major enhancements in the career consulting and professional development of PGA Members, including establishing life-long learning in three career tracks and creating the Chief Membership Officer position; took the bold step of moving the PGA Championship to May; reached a record-setting Ryder Cup agreement with NBC; alongside the LPGA, led the creation of the KPMG Women’s PGA Championship as the cornerstone of our diversity and inclusion efforts; and set in motion the exciting path to a new headquarters development for our Association. 

In addition, we took ownership of PGA Jr. League and created an effective way to introduce boys and girls to the game in a fun, team format.  Our charitable foundation, PGA REACH, is impacting more lives through golf than ever before by enabling access to PGA Professionals and this great game. 

These are exciting times for the PGA of America, but the best is yet to come.  We are committed to building upon the momentum of recent years while also embracing new ways to grow the game and serve our members. 

The Board of Directors has approved a leadership transition plan with Chief Membership Officer John Easterbrook, PGA, acting as interim CEO. During this time, we will look internally and externally to find a long-term CEO. 

With the PGA of America well-positioned for continued success, Pete departs with our gratitude and best wishes to him and his family. 

Sincerely, 
 

Paul K. Levy
President, PGA of America