The British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA) and Jacobsen have announced the delegates for the 2026 Future Turf Managers Initiative (FTMI).
Each year, 15 up-and-coming BIGGA members are chosen to participate in the training programme credited with developing some of the most influential course managers and head greenkeepers.
First hosted in 2013 as a two-day education event, FTMI has since expanded around the world, with similar schemes now operating in Spain, Portugal, Australia and New Zealand.
Deb Burnett, BIGGA’s Head of Professional Development, underlined the quality of this year’s cohort, who hail from clubs across the UK and represent a broad range of roles within the greenkeeping profession.
“FTMI continues to attract outstanding applications from ambitious BIGGA members who are already making a real impact at their clubs and within their regions,” she said. “The class of 2026 reflects the strength and depth of talent coming through the industry, and we are excited to support them as they build the skills, confidence and networks that will help them take the next step in their careers.”
Barry McTavish, Vice President and General Manager for Ransomes Jacobsen, added: “FTMI is a cornerstone of Jacobsen’s commitment to building a bright future for the sport of golf and the greater golf industry. Alongside BIGGA, we are identifying and developing the next generation of leaders, to better equip and prepare them to manage our industry’s critical assets – our golf courses – responsibly, sustainably, and in a manner that supports the growth of our sport.”
The initiative has benefited over 200 BIGGA members, with many citing their FTMI experience as key to their development. Jethro Wilson, senior greenkeeper at Loch Lomond, is excited to join such esteemed company.
“Being selected for FTMI means a great deal to me,” he said. “Developing as a turf manager is something I’m passionate about, and this is a fantastic opportunity to learn from some of the best people in the industry while building relationships with like-minded professionals. I’m excited to make the most of every experience over the next year.”
The programme has been designed to provide practical tools and guidance to help candidates pursue their career aspirations. Working with professional trainers, mentors, Jacobsen and BIGGA staff, graduates gain a clear understanding of what the future holds and a realistic overview of the expectations that come with the role of manager.
Toby Smith, deputy course manager at Redlibbets, said: “When I found out I had been selected for FTMI I was very proud and excited. It was something that was recommended to me and I knew right away that it was a brilliant initiative and I definitely wanted to apply.
“I’m thrilled to have been selected and we have some great mentors. I’m really looking forward to working with everyone and pushing towards where I want to be and making new friends and connections along the way.”
FTMI begins at Ransomes Jacobsen’s headquarters in Ipswich and is followed by a series of online education sessions before culminating in two days of education at BTME in January.
Candidates are selected based upon an anonymous judging criterion, with the panel gaining an insight into the achievements of each application, who must be educationally active on a national and regional level.
FTMI CLASS OF 2026
Ruben Aitchison Deputy Head Greenkeeper, Tain GC
Matthew Cox Deputy Course Manager, Whitecraigs GC
Jonathan Dykes Assistant Greenkeeper, Harleyford GC
Harry Glover First Assistant Greenkeeper, Lee Park GC
Oliver Hopkin First Assistant, Hollinwell GC
Ruaridh Marshall Assistant Greenkeeper, Sunningdale GC
Laurie Owen First Assistant, Gog Magog GC
Harvey Sims First Assistant, Hayling GC
Gregory Smith First Assistant, The Berkshire GC
Toby Smith Deputy Course Manager, Redlibbets GC
Tommy Spender Greenkeeper, Highwoods GC
Harlie Stokes Assistant Greenkeeper, Sandiway GC
Bradley Taylor First Assistant, Beau Desert GC
Jethro Wilson Senior Greenkeeper, Loch Lomond GC
Dominic Wright Senior Greenkeeper, Fulford GC