PADI has announced that Brian P. Cronin has announced his retirement after 17 years in the PADI organization. Dr Drew Richardson, a 27 year veteran in PADI, has been appointed to take over as PADI Worldwide CEO and Chairman of the Board.
PADI was founded by Brian’s father, John Cronin and Ralph Erickson in 1966 over a bottle of Johnnie Walker Black Label when they decided it was time to start a scuba training organization. John insisted that the word “professional” be in the name of the company. Ralph wanted an “association of diving instructors.” After a few scotches, the acronym PADI was born: Professional Association of Diving Instructors.
In the last 46 years PADI has grown to be the world’s largest scuba training and certification organization with nearly 6100 retailers and resorts, and 138,000 professional members in 180 countries.
“I am so proud and honored to have served as PADI Worldwide CEO and carry on my dad’s legacy in diving. I’ve had the opportunity to work with talented staff, passionate
members and a supportive Board of Directors — all who believe strongly in the organization’s mission,” says Cronin. “It’s now time for me to officially hand over this honor and responsibility to my long-term partner and colleague, Dr. Drew Richardson.”
