RBFF names Chanda as new President and CEO

Dave Chanda has been named as the next President and CEO of the Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation (RBFF), the organisation driving participation in the US. He will succeed Frank Peterson, who is retiring after 15 years in the role.

Chanda, who joined the RBFF in 2017 as VP of State and Federal Engagement, will manage all aspects of the Foundation and take responsibility for meeting the organisation’s strategic goals. He assumes his role on January 1st, 2022.

Before joining the RBFF, Chanda spent 37 years with the New Jersey Division of the Association of Fish & Wildlife Agencies – 11 of those as Director. He is also a former President of the Association of Fish & Wildlife Agencies

“I have always been a steadfast supporter of the Foundation’s goals and mission,” said Chanda, who is currently pursuing a Masters’ Degree in marketing. “I look forward to working with this talented team as we continue to grow fishing and boating opportunities.”

RBFF Board Chairman and past President of Zebco Brands, Jeff Pontius, said: “Dave has the knowledge and expertise to drive the RBFF’s initiatives, while also identifying new solutions that will both support stakeholders and keep fishing and boating relevant with today’s consumers.”

Retiring President and CEO Peterson said he couldn’t think of a better person to carry forward the Foundation’s work. During his tenure, Peterson spearheaded work that attracted millions of new anglers, saw a significant increase in fishing licence sales and grew the percentage of adult boaters to record numbers.