Nicole Metzger Joins World Surf League as Chief Revenue Officer to Drive Global Growth

The World Surf League (WSL) has announced the appointment of Nicole Metzger as its new Chief Revenue Officer. Metzger brings over two decades of extensive experience in commercial leadership within professional and collegiate sports, aiming to accelerate the league’s revenue growth, forge impactful brand partnerships, and implement innovative licensing strategies.

Key Takeaways

• Nicole Metzger appointed as WSL’s Chief Revenue Officer.
• She will oversee global partnerships, licensing, and business development.
• Metzger’s background includes significant roles at the LPGA, NBA, NFL, and collegiate sports.
• Her appointment is seen as pivotal for the WSL’s expansion and commercial strategy.

Driving Commercial Strategy and Partnerships

In her new capacity, Metzger will be responsible for the WSL’s global partnerships, licensing, and business development initiatives. Her focus will be on advancing the league’s commercial strategy and leading the partnership team to foster innovation through strategic business development and partnership planning. Metzger’s proven ability to connect sports properties with global brands for revenue generation and purpose-led partnerships is expected to be instrumental in the WSL’s continued success.

A Proven Track Record in Sports Revenue

Metzger joins the WSL from the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA), where she served as Chief Sales and Partnerships Officer, driving revenue and overseeing partnership strategy. Her previous roles include significant contributions to the Miami Dolphins, where she co-led negotiations for a major NFL stadium naming rights deal, and the Charlotte Hornets, securing their first-ever jersey patch sponsorship. She also held a key position within the NBA’s Team Marketing & Business Operations (TMBO) division and served as Chief Revenue Officer at JMI Sports/Clemson University, expanding multimedia rights and launching a digital network.

Vision for the Future

WSL CEO Ryan Crosby expressed enthusiasm for Metzger’s appointment, stating, "Nicole brings significant experience and success in sports partnerships and revenue generation to the WSL. She is joining us at a pivotal time, as we look to expand our global footprint through our commercial partnerships." Metzger herself shared her excitement, noting, "Surfing is not just a sport-it’s a global lifestyle with an incredibly passionate and engaged community. I see tremendous opportunity to create impactful, purpose-driven partnerships that connect brands to this culture in authentic, meaningful ways." She also highlighted opportunities to engage the sport’s younger demographic, emphasize gender equity, and leverage momentum from events like LA28.

Sources

• World Surf League Appoints Nicole Metzger as Chief Revenue Officer, World Surf League.
• World Surf League hires Nicole Metzger as chief revenue officer, Sports Business Journal.