Mark Gerberich has three main passions.
He loves events. He loves sports. And he loves teaching kids through competition.
Gerberich will get to combine all three in his new job as president and chief executive officer of the International Soap Box Derby.
The Akron nonprofit announced Wednesday that he will take over the leadership role effective June 12.
“I love Akron and I want to see this iconic brand continue past my lifetime,” said Gerberich, 57, a Bath Township resident.
He succeeds Joe Mazur who left to become president of the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad.
The national derby program, which dates back to 1934, has seen a resurgence in recent years after financial setbacks. Gerberich said one of his goals is to continue the path set by Mazur, including promoting the STEM aspect of the sport.
Soap Box Derby Chairman Kevin Thomas said Gerberich was chosen because of his sports management experience, Akron ties and national relationships.
Gerberich moved to Akron in 1983 to join the Professional Bowlers Association and later was commissioner of the Pro Bowlers Tour from 1996 to 2000.
He also has served as managing partner of Pinnacle Sports, managed the Pond Ice Skating Rink in Chagrin Falls and has served as business development manager selling sporting goods to retailers for Maryland-based Compass Marketing since 2013.
Gerberich doesn’t have any immediate plans for changes with the derby. He said he wants to learn as much as he can and observe the upcoming 80th annual FirstEnergy All-American Soap Box Derby World Championship races, which take place July 16-22.
“We’ll take a look and evaluate everything and see how we can make it better,” he said.
Gerberich recalled visiting the derby when he first moved to Akron. At the time, he was impressed with the enthusiasm displayed by the participating children and their families.
“I understand the passion of derby nation and I need to listen to those people,” he said.
Rick Armon can be reached at 330-996-3569 or rarmon@thebeaconjournal.com. Follow him on Twitter at @armonrickABJ .