The R&A has appointed experienced government advisor Robert Oxley to the new position of Director of Public Affairs.
An experienced former Special Adviser who has worked at multiple UK Government departments, Oxley’s most recent position was at the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS). Prior to that he was Senior Special Adviser at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, and before the Covid-19 pandemic he was Press Secretary to Prime Minister Boris Johnson. He has held various roles in other government departments, campaigns and businesses.
In his new role Oxley will focus on developing the R&A’s relationship with government departments and public policy makers, while continuing to improve the perception of the sport by building positive engagement with key stakeholders.
His role will also see him engage with ministers and government officials in Westminster and Whitehall, including with the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Golf, as well as those in Holyrood, Stormont and the Welsh Senedd. He will also liaise with local government in support of R&A championships and in key overseas locations.
Martin Slumbers, Chief Executive of The R&A, said: “We are delighted to welcome Robert to the organisation in a new public affairs role as we aim to engage more deeply with policy makers to increase our global impact, influence and reputation.
“As an experienced communications professional, having previously worked in various government positions, Robert can support our wider priorities for golf to be recognised and operate smoothly within policy and legislative frameworks.”
Oxley said: “I’m delighted to have joined the fantastic team at The R&A which plays a unique and vital global role in championing and developing the game. Since day one of talking to The R&A, it has been clear they have a clear vision for the sport and I’m really excited to join an organisation driven by the values of integrity and inclusivity. We have an amazing opportunity to develop and sustain golf on a global scale for both current and future generations. I’m hugely excited to be part of that.”