Eastside Golf Appoints Annette Parker as Its First Marketing Leader
In a groundbreaking move, Eastside Golf, the lifestyle brand dedicated to transforming the cultural landscape of golf, has recently announced the appointment of Annette Parker as its first-ever Head of Marketing. With a rich background in sports marketing and a passion for the game, Parker's arrival symbolizes a new chapter for the brand, which is committed to diversifying and reshaping golf's image.
Annette Parker comes to Eastside Golf after an extensive tenure at Creative Artists Agency (CAA), where she notably managed significant sports marketing partnerships and played a pivotal role in the agency's golf initiatives. Her experience at CAA was marked by her leadership in major accounts, fostering relationships that leveraged the brand's visibility within the golf sector. Eastside Golf co-founders, CEO Earl Cooper and Creative Director Olajuwon Ajanaku, welcomed her to the team, expressing that her expertise would be crucial in driving the brand's marketing strategy and growth.
Parker's role as Head of Marketing will involve crafting and executing innovative marketing strategies that tell the Eastside Golf story, aiming to enhance its reach in an industry that often relies on traditional narratives. "Joining Eastside Golf is an incredible opportunity to continue reshaping how golf is consumed, positioned, and experienced," Parker stated. She expressed her admiration for the co-founders' authentic mission to celebrate the culture of golf.
Since its inception, Eastside Golf has been making waves by appealing to a diverse audience, not only among avid golfers but also among those who appreciate style and culture. The brand, embracing an inclusive vision, aims to engage younger audiences and promote accessibility within the sport. Parker's appointment aligns perfectly with this vision, as she has been instrumental in several successful initiatives since she first collaborated with Eastside Golf in 2021, even before her formal onboarding.
Parker contributed to the establishment of the annual Eastside Golf Invitational, a significant event that focuses on supporting Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) through golf. Furthermore, her efforts in launching Eastside Golf's Community Golf Days demonstrate a grassroots approach, forging partnerships with organizations like the PGA TOUR and notable brands such as Mercedes Benz and Bridgestone.
With a solid foundation laid in community outreach and golf education, Eastside Golf aims to connect aspiring golfers and non-golfers alike to the resources and support they need to enjoy the game. The signature swingman logo, representing a young Black man dressed casually yet confidently, encapsulates the ethos of Eastside Golf: embracing authenticity in the sports arena.
Prior to her journey in golf marketing, Parker was a collegiate track athlete at the University of North Carolina, where she discovered golf during her recovery from injuries. Her passion for the sport only deepened following a prestigious internship with the PGA Tour, which marked the beginning of her ascent in the sports marketing landscape. With an impressive career path that includes a role as Midwest Sales Director for Inc. Magazine and various positions within sports media and advertising, Parker brings an invaluable wealth of knowledge to her new role.
Co-founders Cooper and Ajanaku's confidence in Parker's abilities is evident, as they regard her as a vital asset in navigating the complexities of the golf market. They also highlight her expertise in partnerships that can elevate Eastside Golf as a cultural influence within the golf community.
Parker's official start date was January 20, 2025, and she will make her mark from Eastside Golf’s headquarters in New York City. As the brand pushes boundaries and promotes dialogue within the golf community, Parker’s vision and leadership will undoubtedly play a crucial role in advancing Eastside Golf's mission. From driving marketing initiatives to telling compelling brand stories, new horizons await as Eastside Golf continues to define what modern golf can and should represent in today’s society.
With a growing community of supporters including notable athletes, musicians, and public figures, Eastside Golf is set to shift perceptions even further, making golf a sport for everyone. The brand’s dynamic approach extends to collaborations and partnerships with global entities, amplifying the conversation about inclusivity in golf.
For more information, visit www.eastsidegolf.com or follow them on social media platforms.