Copyright © 2015. No duplication is permitted without permission from Bob Larson Tennis.

New WTA chief executive Steve Simon will not have long to settle into his new job with the women’s tour showcase in Singapore coming up fast with the possibility of leading names Serena Williams, Maria Sharapova and Simona Halep all missing the WTA Finals.

However Simon is confident that the infrastructure is in place for him to hit the ground running and he said: “I hope to continue to improve what Larry (Scott) built and what Stacey (Allaster) grew.”

Speaking to the Los Angeles Times, his local paper after living at Huntington Beach, he revealed he will have a 60-day transition period, handing over his tournament director and chief operating officer tasks at the BNP Paribas Open and easing into his new WTA duties.

And Simon gave a basic version of his new mission statement. “I want to lead the WTA Tour in the delivery of premier entertainment and excellence to tennis fans,” he said.

Simon has massed support in his new role amongst the big names of women’s tennis. The highly influential Billie Jean King said: “Steve Simon is the right person for the job. His track record is marked by success. He is thoughtful, respectful and has excellent business judgment.”

Clearly the return of Serena Williams to play in Indian Wells this year, and Simon’s role in the reconciliation, played a part. Steve could not have been more helpful, professional and supportive,” said the world no.1. “I know how much he cares about the opinions of the players. He’s a good listener and he has our best interests in mind.”

Sharapova, currently injured and seemingly more intent on the fashion world than tennis, added: “Steve is a strong leader and someone who thinks big about our sport. Every year, Indian Wells gets more innovative and better. I’m glad to see him become our CEO.”

And Caroline Wozniacki told the WTA: “He knows what fans want and he does a great job helping the players too. He has the right business skills, player relationships and smarts to run this tour.

“The tour is already very successful and I’m sure it will be even more so now. I think he and Micky Lawler (WTA president) will make a great mixed doubles team.”

Copyright © 2015. No duplication is permitted without permission from Bob Larson Tennis.