PALM BEACH GARDENS, Florida – The PGA TOUR announced today that Max Novena has been named the interim Executive Director of the Cognizant Classic in The Palm Beaches, returning to PGA National’s Champion Course from February 24-28, 2027.

“I’m excited to help lead the Cognizant Classic in The Palm Beaches, which has such a rich TOUR history in a community that is passionate about golf,” said Novena. “This region is synonymous with world-class golf and I’m looking forward to continuing to build on the incredible experience for fans, players, partners and volunteers.”

A seasoned leader across PGA TOUR events, Novena most recently led The Sentry in Maui, Hawaii, from 2022 to 2025, overseeing tournament operations, sales and marketing, as well as community engagement and charitable impact. In addition to his role at The Sentry, he has continued to support business and revenue growth across TOUR-operated events, among them, the Cognizant Classic in The Palm Beaches where he is already familiar with the tournament and its stakeholders.

“We’re excited for Max to bring his institutional knowledge and deep commitment to community and service to our team in Palm Beach Gardens,” said Jordan Uppleger, Vice President of PGA TOUR Events. “Combined with his track record of growing revenue across some of the largest markets in the country, he has the unique ability to connect our events more closely with their hometown. We are eager for him to bring that passion – alongside our partners in Cognizant, PGA National, Children’s Healthcare Charity and The Palm Beaches – to our fans in South Florida.”

Novena will join forces with longstanding partners – host venue, PGA National, and charitable partner Children’s Healthcare Charity – as well as title sponsor Cognizant and presenting partner The Palm Beaches, to deliver another successful event for fans, players and the Palm Beach Community.

The announcement coincides with the recent appointment of industry veteran and Palm Beach native Ken Kennerly as President of the Children’s Healthcare Charity. Kennerly, who dedicated nearly 20 years to transforming the Cognizant Classic in his role as Executive Director, will work closely with Novena.

Prior to his role at The Sentry, Novena was Head of Commercial for Kelly Slater Wave Co. where he shaped business strategy for Surf Ranch and future wave technology destinations worldwide. His tenure with the World Surf League also included leading global business development and commercial initiatives.

Earlier in his career, Novena oversaw revenue for PGA TOUR Events, served as Championship Director and Sales Director for multiple USGA national championships, and held positions with the University of Colorado Boulder, the Colorado Avalanche and the Denver Nuggets.

For more information about the 2027 event, please visit TheCognizantClassic.com. Fans are encouraged to follow the Cognizant Classic in The Palm Beaches on Facebook, X and Instagram.