BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Mark Anders
Co-Founder, Chairman
Happily addicted to surfing, Mark makes a point of getting into the ocean nearly every day. When he’s not in the water, Mark is busy bringing new creative projects to life as an award-winning writer, photographer, and filmmaker. Outside of his role as co-founder of Ocean Fest and chairman of the board, he has served as the organization’s Executive Director since 2019. Mark sees Ocean Fest as a way for him to give something meaningful back to Mother Ocean.
Cody Leutgens
Co-Founder
Cody is a Surf City native, esteemed resident ripper, founder of Surf City Surf School, and co-owner of local favorite eatery, Shaka Taco. He helped to launch Ocean Fest in 2019, and today, brings his business expertise and love for his hometown and all things surfing to the team.
Jody Fletcher
Jody is a recently retired U.S. Navy Special Forces veteran turned executive coach. He brings his three decades of military leadership and operational expertise to the board. Jody’s favorite thing about O’Fest is the teamwork and the great people involved.
Cory Sydes
Co-Founder
Cory is an area local, avid surfboard collector, founder of the Topsail Island Longboard Association, and store manager at Home Depot. Helping to launch Ocean Fest in 2019, Cory continues to oversee its success today through the Board and his contributions to the organization’s year-round operations.
Ilene Anders
Secretary
Serving as the Chief Financial Officer of a multi-billion-dollar financial services company, Ilene has over two decades of industry expertise which she brings to the Board. Ilene currently sits on several boards. While she dabbles in surfing, you will more likely find her running on the sands of Surf City.
Josh Kendrick
Josh spent over 20 years with Red Bull USA, most recently working as the Head of Athlete Marketing & Performance. He currently serves as VP of Marketing and Communication for SRAM. Josh is a lifelong surfer dedicated to giving back to what he loves.
Penn Newhard
Penn is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Backbone Media, the nation’s premier active lifestyle marketing agency. An expert in public relations, media, and marketing, Penn has built an impressive client portfolio featuring many of the world’s most popular outdoor brands like Patagonia, Yeti, and Columbia Sportswear.