One of LPGA commissioner Craig Kessler's first key hires is already gone. Chad Coleman, the former Chief Brand Officer at Dude Perfect, was hired as the LPGA's chief marketing officer back in late January.
On Monday, staff was informed that Coleman had stepped down.
"Chad Coleman has made the personal decision to step down from his role with the LPGA to be present with his family, and we respect that decision," an LPGA spokesperson said in a statement. "We're grateful for everything he's helped build here, and we wish Chad and his family all the best in what's next."
The tour will not replace the position of chief marketing officer, instead hiring Taylor Strick for the position of senior vice president, marketing. Strick, who was global head of partnerships
for Aon, will report directly to Kessler, as will VP of communications J.D. Sterba. Strick will also oversee the tour's social media team.
In addition, Lindsay Allen has stepped down from her role as executive director of the 2028 Solheim Cup to spend more time with family. Allen will finish out the rest of the year with the LPGA. Allen was at the helm for the 2024 Solheim Cup at Robert Trent Jones Golf Club, which was mired in controversy over transportation failures.
The tour has announced the hiring of Ryan Ogle to take her place. Ogle is a former championship director for the PGA Championship, including the 2024 edition at Valhalla, where the 2028 Solheim Cup will be held. He resigned from the PGA of America earlier this year to work as a VP of sales and services at Churchill Downs Racetrack.
Beth Ann Nichols is a senior writer for Golfweek covering the LPGA and all things women's golf. Follow her on X/Twitter (@GolfweekNichols).
This article originally appeared on Golfweek: Former Dude Perfect brand executive out at LPGA in less than a year
