Matthew Zangrando
San Diego
Summary
Operations and guest experience leader with progressive leadership at Kelly Slater Wave Co., advancing from Surf Guide to Supervisor of Coaching. Experienced in high-performance, safety-critical environments leading teams, coordinating complex water-based operations, and delivering premium guest experiences. Known for decisive leadership, situational awareness, and ability to manage people and operations under pressure.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Supervisor of Coaching / Surf Coach / Surf Guide
Kelly Slater Wave Co.
Lemoore, CA
01.2022 - Current
- Oversee daily water operations at Surf Ranch, ensuring safe, efficient execution of premium guest surf sessions
- Direct and develop coaching staff, maintaining consistent operational and service standards
- Coordinate cross-functional teams across surf operations, water safety, and coaching to execute high-volume guest days
- Adapt live operations based on conditions, guest needs, and scheduling demands
- Deliver high-level surf coaching including performance analysis and progression planning
- Support training and onboarding, including international expansion initiatives (Surf Abu Dhabi)
- Act as on-site operational leader during dynamic, high-pressure situations requiring rapid decision-making and real-time problem solving
Surf Instructor
San Diego Surf School
San Diego, CA
01.2021 - 01.2022
- Delivered private and group surf instruction across all skill levels
- Managed client experience, safety, and lesson logistics in ocean environments
- Built strong client relationships resulting in repeat business and referrals
Manager
Hammer Surf School
Spring Lake, NJ
01.2015 - 01.2021
- Directed daily operations serving up to 40 clients per session
- Managed and developed team of 25+ staff across coaching and operations functions
- Implemented structured systems improving consistency, retention, and guest experience
- Oversaw scheduling, training, and event execution in high-volume environment
- Drove customer satisfaction through leadership, communication, and operational control
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Communication Studies
University of North Carolina At Wilmington
Wilmington, NC05-2020
Associate of Science - Business Administration And Management
Brookdale Community College
Lincroft, NJ08-2017
Skills
- Operations Leadership
- Water Safety Management
- Guest Experience Operations
- High-Pressure Decision Making
- Cross-Functional Coordination
- Staff Training & Development
- Coaching
- Scheduling & Logistics
Certification
- CPR Certified (American Red Cross)
- Lifeguard Certified (American Red Cross)
- Big Wave Risk Assessment Group Certification
- Stop the Bleed - Bleeding Control (Mana Group Training Solutions)
Timeline
Supervisor of Coaching / Surf Coach / Surf Guide
Kelly Slater Wave Co.
01.2022 - Current
Surf Instructor
San Diego Surf School
01.2021 - 01.2022
Manager
Hammer Surf School
01.2015 - 01.2021
Bachelor of Arts - Communication Studies
University of North Carolina At Wilmington
Associate of Science - Business Administration And Management
Brookdale Community College