Head North America CEO Kempin to Step Down on July 1st

By Tennis Now | @TennisNow | Monday, February 24, 2025
Photo credit: Head Facebook

It’s the end of an era at Head North America.

Kevin Kempin will step down as Head Racquet Sports CEO North America on July 1st after 32 years with the company, the brand announced today.

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Kempin, who worked his way up through high level sales marketing positions during his tenure, has served as CEO/President of HEAD USA since 2009.

“July 1 will be my 32 year anniversary with HEAD North America,” Kempin said. “The time is right to move on to the next phase of my life’s journey. It has been my greatest honor and privilege to work with such great people over the years, both at Head and in the Racquet Sports Industry.

“I will, of course, be fully involved over the coming months in order to ensure a smooth transition to my successor.”

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Jeff Bardsley will succeed Kempin as Head CEO North America. Bardsley brings a wealth of experience, having spent the last 32 years with HEAD—27 of them with HEAD Canada and the past five-plus years as the Vice President of Racquet Sports Marketing for North America.

“Jeff will be an outstanding leader in the very important North American market,” Kempin said. “Jeff’s in-depth knowledge of our U.S. and Canadian business, coupled with his unique skillset makes him an ideal candidate for this position.”

“I very much am looking forward to the challenges that lay ahead” Bardsley said. “I am both honored and fortunate to take over where Kevin has left off. He is leaving us with a solid business foundation, surrounded by some great teams.”