IMG Academy Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

IMG Academy has 5 executives leading key functions including strategy, culinary operations, operations, legal affairs, and overall business development.

Driven by a commitment to athletic and academic excellence, IMG Academy empowers athletes of all levels to achieve peak performance through world-class training, education, and facilities, solidifying its position as a global leader in sports development.

Leadership Roles at IMG Academy

  • Chief Executive Officer - Louis Palumbo
  • Culinary Chief Executive Officer - Ellen Straus
  • President - Tim Pernetti
  • Chief of Staff - Karissa Biever
  • Chief Legal Officer - Daniel Malasky
  • Louis Palumbo - Chief Executive Officer

    Louis Palumbo, the Chief Executive Officer at IMG Academy, directs the overarching strategic vision and operational framework for the world's largest multi-sport training and educational institution. Palumbo's leadership ensures IMG Academy consistently delivers unparalleled development opportunities for youth, adult, collegiate, and professional athletes. This executive guides the integration of elite athletic coaching, comprehensive academic programs, and state-of-the-art facilities, aligning all functions with the core mission of maximizing athlete potential. Overseeing the institution's expansion and innovation initiatives, Louis Palumbo drives the continuous enhancement of training methodologies and research in sports performance, solidifying IMG Academy's global standing. The Chief Executive Officer's role involves fostering key partnerships and ensuring the financial health and long-term sustainability of the organization, impacting every facet of athlete development and institutional growth.

    Ellen Straus - Culinary Chief Executive Officer

    Ellen Straus, the Culinary Chief Executive Officer at IMG Academy, spearheads the strategic direction and operational excellence of all culinary services. Straus's focus is on developing and implementing innovative dining programs that support the rigorous nutritional demands of elite athletes and the broader IMG Academy community. This leadership position involves overseeing the procurement, preparation, and delivery of high-quality, performance-focused meals across the campus. Ellen Straus ensures that culinary operations align with the institution's commitment to holistic athlete development, providing fuel for peak physical and mental performance. The Culinary Chief Executive Officer manages a team dedicated to exceptional service and dietary customization, contributing directly to the athlete experience and overall well-being. Straus's influence extends to menu planning, food safety standards, and the integration of nutritional science into daily operations.

    Tim Pernetti - President

    Tim Pernetti, the President at IMG Academy, drives the strategic vision and operational execution for the institution's comprehensive sports training and educational programs. Pernetti's leadership focuses on enhancing the athlete experience, expanding program offerings, and solidifying IMG Academy's position as a global leader in performance development. This executive oversees key functional areas, ensuring alignment with the company's mission to help athletes reach their full potential both in sport and academics. Tim Pernetti is instrumental in fostering relationships with collegiate and professional sports organizations, driving innovation in coaching methodologies, and championing the integration of cutting-edge sports science. The President's role involves guiding the institution's growth, optimizing resource allocation, and ensuring the delivery of world-class services that define IMG Academy's unparalleled reputation.
    Tim Pernetti

    Karissa Biever - Chief of Staff

    Karissa Biever, the Chief of Staff at IMG Academy, provides critical operational and strategic support to the executive leadership team, ensuring seamless execution of institutional objectives. Biever's role involves managing key projects, facilitating cross-departmental communication, and optimizing internal processes to enhance efficiency across the multi-sport training and educational environment. This executive acts as a central point of coordination, driving initiatives that align with IMG Academy's mission of athlete development and academic excellence. Karissa Biever oversees the implementation of strategic plans, monitors progress against key performance indicators, and advises leadership on operational improvements. The Chief of Staff's responsibilities include streamlining operations, managing special projects, and ensuring that all organizational efforts are aligned with the company's long-term vision and market impact.
    Daniel Malasky, the Chief Legal Officer at IMG Academy, directs all legal affairs and ensures compliance with relevant regulations for the institution. Malasky's purview encompasses managing legal risks, overseeing contract negotiations, and providing expert counsel on matters affecting the organization's operations and strategic growth. This executive plays a vital role in safeguarding IMG Academy's interests, particularly concerning athlete agreements, facility usage, and intellectual property. Daniel Malasky's leadership ensures that all institutional activities adhere to the highest legal and ethical standards, supporting the safe and effective development of athletes. The Chief Legal Officer's responsibilities include advising on corporate governance, dispute resolution, and the legal framework supporting IMG Academy's status as a premier sports training and educational hub.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding IMG Academy Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads IMG Academy?
    IMG Academy is led by Louis Palumbo (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Ellen Straus (Culinary Chief Executive Officer) and Tim Pernetti (President).
    Who is part of IMG Academy’s executive team?
    The executive team of IMG Academy includes leaders such as Louis Palumbo (Chief Executive Officer), Ellen Straus (Culinary Chief Executive Officer), Tim Pernetti (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does IMG Academy have?
    IMG Academy has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in IMG Academy’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of IMG Academy includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Culinary Chief Executive Officer, President, Chief of Staff, Chief Legal Officer.