Nick Franklin's previous experience includes 18 years with Disney.world surf league
The World Surf League appointed Nick Franklin as president of the Kelly Slater Wave Company. WSL Holdings acquired the KSWC in ’16 and the bodies jointly operate Surf Ranch, which is located in Lemoore, Calif., and features a man-made wave system. Franklin will be tasked with driving the growth and development of the business globally, pursuing strategic and operational integration with the WSL and leading continued innovation of the product.
Franklin previously spent 18 years with Disney, where he ultimately served as EVP of next generation experience and led the transformation of the guest experience at Walt Disney Parks & Resorts.
"Nick is a visionary leader and we're very fortunate to have him join the organization," WSL CEO Sophie Goldschmidt said. "It's a time of unprecedented opportunity for the company with so many exciting aspects to develop, so Nick’s incredible experience, stellar reputation and proven track record will make him vital to the successful future of KSWC and the WSL."
Franklin joins ahead of Surf Ranch hosting its first WSL Championship Tour event, the Surf Ranch Pro, from Sept. 6-9. He said, "With the wave technology, Surf Ranch in Lemoore and the connection to the WSL, we have an incredible platform to engage with passionate surfers and also connect with those new to the sport to expand the business."
Terms of Franklin’s contract were not disclosed.
