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Mark Kelly

Founder and CEO @ Global Surf Industries

Mark Kelly is the Founder and CEO of Global Surf Industries (GSI), a company he established on June 19, 2002.24 With over two decades of experience in the surfing industry, Kelly has transformed GSI into the world's largest distributor of surfboards.4

Career and Achievements

Kelly's background includes product, marketing, and sales management experience with international companies like adidas, Ray Ban, and Surf Hardware International (FCS).2 He leveraged this expertise to build GSI into a global platform for surfboard distribution.

Under Kelly's leadership, GSI has:

  • Developed a portfolio of 11 brands catering to various surfer types and skill levels4
  • Expanded operations to Australia and 19 other countries4
  • Achieved sales exceeding US$20 million globally in 20074
  • Introduced innovative surfboard designs, such as the highly successful 7S Super Fish2

Personal Philosophy

Kelly's business approach is guided by the mantra "Life is better when you surf".4 He is passionate about:

  1. Building GSI globally
  2. Developing community locally
  3. Ensuring all people have access to surfing3

In September 2021, Kelly decided to dedicate the rest of his life to three areas: entrepreneurialism, activism (focusing on democracy, environmental, and humanitarian causes), and philanthropy.1

Surfing Background

Interestingly, Kelly didn't start surfing until he was 30 years old.5 Despite this late start, his passion for the sport has driven his business success and personal life, with Kelly now owning about 70 surfboards.5

Kelly continues to lead GSI, focusing on innovation, retail partnerships, and adapting to changes in consumer behavior and the retail industry.5

Highlights

May 30 · accountedge.com
Mark Kelly, Global Surf Industries - AccountEdge
Global Surf Industries - brand history
An invitation to a special Q & A session. – Global Surf Industries - USA
An invitation to a special Q & A session. – Global Surf Industries
Aug 26 · surfcareers.com
Mark Kelly - Global Surf industries | SurfCareers
Mark Kelly - Global Surf industries | SurfCareers

Related Questions

What inspired Mark Kelly to start Global Surf Industries?
How has Global Surf Industries evolved since its founding in 2002?
What are some of the key brands under Global Surf Industries?
How does Mark Kelly balance his role as CEO with his activism and philanthropy?
What was the impact of the 7S Super Fish surfboard on Global Surf Industries?
Mark Kelly
Mark Kelly, photo 1
Mark Kelly, photo 2
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Location

Greater Sydney Area