Fasulo will be based in the organisation's headquarters in La Jolla in California, and will report directly to ISA President Fernando Aguerre.

Working alongside the ISA Executive Committee, Fasulo will be responsible for the strategic direction, financial stewardship and operational management of surfing’s world governing body.

The appointment appears to have been partly driven by surfing's inclusion among five sports recommended by Tokyo 2020 for inclusion on the Olympic programme in four years time. 

Formerly an advisor to the ISA, as well as other organisations in international sport, Fasulo has played a key role in the ISA’s successful campaign to be included at Tokyo 2020, which is due to be voted on by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) at its Session in Rio de Janeiro between August 2 and 4. 

Fasulo previously held senior positions at various Olympic organisations, including being chief of international relations at the United States Olympic Committee and director of the Association of Summer Olympic International Federations (ASOIF).

He was also previously chief of staff at the International Association of Athletics Federations under the late President Primo Nebiolo.

"I am delighted Bob has joined the ISA during this crucial time in the organisation’s history," said Aguerre.

"We have been on a journey of development and the ISA has grown into an International Federation with almost 100 member nations.

"Surfing is committed to playing an active and positive role within the Olympic Movement and we hope our dream to join the sports programme is realised for Tokyo 2020.

“Bob's experience, insight and understanding of global sport have been a tremendous asset to our campaign for Olympic inclusion and it’s great to have him join us to continue this work and represent the ISA to the broader Surfing, Olympic and sports community.”

Fasulo,who is fluent in English, French, Italian and Spanish, will start his job immediately and be part of the ISA's delegation at the SportAccord Convention in Lausanne next week. 

“Surfing is a young, relevant and rising sport with amazing athletes, a vibrant culture and highly appealing lifestyle. It’s been an incredible privilege to work as a strategic advisor to Fernando for these past five years and to contribute to his inspired vision for the sport and its Olympic aspirations," he said. 

"I’m honoured and excited by this opportunity to play a key role in the sport’s long-term development and bright future.”