Karin Sharp, Scottish Golf’s chief operating officer for the past two years, is, according to a report published in today’s Scotsman, ‘no longer at the helm’ of the governing body, with Fraser Thornton, a former non-executive board member, installed as interim chief executive officer.
According to the report, which was written by Scotsman golf correspondent Martin Dempster, Sharp remains in her post, but her current status with the governing body ‘is now unclear’.
Sharp, who previously worked for the Scottish Ladies Golf Association, took up the role of chief operating officer at Scottish Golf in April 2020 following Andrew McKinlay’s sudden departure as chief executive, but a search for a direct replacement for the CEO role had not been made.
“The Board installed Fraser Thornton, who had previously been a Board member, as Interim CEO at the beginning of the year,” said Scottish Golf in a statement issued to The Scotsman. “There is a recruitment drive underway to find a CEO.”
In a communication sent to affiliated clubs, chairman Martin Gilbert explained the decision to look for a new CEO. He said: “As Scottish Golf embarks on a new five-year strategic cycle, the Board believe the organisation would benefit from the appointment of a Chief Executive Officer to oversee and drive the execution of our growth plans in the coming years.
“The existing management has excelled in driving Scottish Golf forward in recent years, and to capitalise on this momentum the Board have judged that a single point of leadership would be advantageous. Odgers Berndtson has been appointed to undertake the search and recruitment process. Internal and external candidates will be considered for this varied and rewarding role.
“To lend operational support to the current management during the recruitment process, the Board have asked Fraser Thornton to assume the role of Interim CEO, with immediate effect. Consequently, Fraser will formally step down from the Board for the duration of his appointment.
“This is an exciting time for Scottish Golf, our employees and stakeholders as we build on the renewed vitality the game of golf is continuing to enjoy. We approach the journey ahead with optimism and confidence.”
In a separate development, The Scotsman has also reported that Paul Lawrie has resigned from the Scottish Golf Board, which he joined last March at the same time as fellow major winner Catriona Matthew. Three nominations for new Board directors – Alan Grant, Robert Cook and Ian Smith – are being proposed at next month’s annual general meeting, when Lynne Terry is also set to be up for election as junior vice-president.