The Sports & Fitness Industry Association Board of Directors has appointed Todd Smith as president and chief executive officer for the association, effective October 1, 2024.

Smith will succeed current President/Chief Executive Officer Tom Cove, who earlier this year announced his retirement after leading the organization since 2005.

“I am excited to have Todd join the SFIA,” said Jon Ram, chairman of the SFIA Board of Directors and former chief executive officer of C&J Clarks Shoes. “He embodies the energy and values of the SFIA and our members. It was a challenging process to find a leader capable and suitable of following in Tom’s footsteps and exceptional leadership. Todd’s leadership and strong track record will enable the SFIA to continue to excel in its work to represent our dynamic industry and our amazing members.”

Smith joins the SFIA after serving as the senior vice president at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. He was a leader in expanding the association’s membership network, creating new programs and resources for U.S. Chamber members, and advancing the advocacy and policy priorities of the business community.

Prior to joining the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Smith was a director of global partnerships for AEG. He’s also worked across the professional sports sector with the NBA’s Sacramento Kings, NHL’s LA Kings and MLS’s LA Galaxy as a leader in sponsorship sales, marketing, and fan development.

“I’m thrilled to have Todd coming aboard,” said Mike Zlaket, chair of the SFIA Board Search Committee and chief executive officer of Rawlings Sporting Goods. “Tom Cove is retiring with a long, successful legacy and leaves big shoes to fill, and Todd really checked all the boxes during the search process. I am confident he will be a tremendous leader who will represent our industry with class, creativity, and passion, and I know we have a very bright future ahead of us under Todd’s leadership.”