March 26, 2015

TaylorMade Golf Company Names David Abeles as CEO and President

The adidas Group has appointed David Abeles as CEO of TaylorMade Golf Company with immediate effect.  Abeles succeeds Ben Sharpe, who has decided to leave the company for personal reasons. Abeles will report directly into adidas Group CEO Herbert Hainer.

Abeles rejoined the company as President of TaylorMade and Adams Golf last month.  A 12-year veteran of TaylorMade Golf Company, Abeles brings a deep executive skill set, leadership competence and business acumen built both within the golf industry as well as in the world of sports. Most recently the CEO of the Competitor Group Inc., Abeles is widely respected within the golf community for his relationships and energetic connection with both the retailer and consumer.

Herbert Hainer, CEO of the adidas Group:  “David has a proven track record of success and leadership excellence. I am convinced that David will lead our golf business into the next era of growth. At the same time, I would like to thank Ben for his passion and many contributions to our company over the last nine years and I wish him all the best for his professional and private future.”

For more information, contact:

TaylorMade Golf Company Global Communications

Heather Spears

Tel: (760) 476.8073

heather.spears@tmag.com