Golf Accountancy Matters is delighted to confirm that industry leaders Simon Jones, Mike Harris and Ben Sharpe will join forces for a lively panel discussion at the third annual Golf Accountancy Matters Workshop & Conference on 26th February 2026 at Camberley Heath Golf Club.
The panel will be hosted by Leighton Walker, ClubTalkUK, and will focus on the future growth and development of the sport, drawing on the speakers’ wide-ranging experience across operations, marketing, and global brand leadership.
Simon Jones brings extensive operational expertise to the panel. Formerly Operations Director at The Club Company, the UK’s largest golf and leisure operator, Jones played a key role in overseeing multi-site operations, commercial performance, and member experience. He now heads up Faldo Enterprises, working closely with Sir Nick Faldo to develop golf course design, management, and brand partnerships on a global scale, in addition to directly encouraging participation through the highly popular Faldo Series of youth golf tournaments.
Joining him is Mike Harris, Founder and Managing Director of The Loop, a specialist PR and marketing communications agency dedicated to the golf, leisure, and sport sectors. With a background in sports marketing and communications, Harris has built The Loop into a full-service agency supporting brands, venues, and governing bodies with strategic messaging, media relations, and campaign delivery. On the panel, he will share insights into how storytelling, brand positioning, and digital engagement can attract new audiences and re-energise existing golfers, helping the sport stay relevant in a competitive leisure market.
Completing the panel is Ben Sharpe, Senior Vice President and Managing Director of Topgolf Callaway Brands EMEA, one of the most influential and innovative companies in global golf. Sharpe oversees a diverse portfolio spanning traditional equipment, entertainment venues, and lifestyle experiences, giving him a unique view on how golf can evolve to meet changing consumer expectations.
Hosted by Leighton Walker, founder and host of the growingly popular GolfClubUK podcast, the discussion will examine how golf can continue to grow in participation, commercial strength, and cultural relevance. While united by a shared passion for the game, Jones, Harris, and Sharpe will each approach the conversation from distinct angles – operational leadership, marketing and communications strategy, and global brand innovation – offering attendees a well-rounded and practical perspective on the opportunities and challenges facing the industry.
The panel will offer relevant insight for club owners, operators, finance professionals and industry partners with an interest in the future sustainability of the game.
The Golf Accountancy Matters Workshop & Conference 2026 will once again bring together leading voices from across the golf sector for a day of learning, discussion, and networking. With this high-calibre panel now confirmed, the event promises to deliver meaningful conversation and actionable insight for all attendees.
Tickets for the conference are selling fast – visit https://golfaccountancymatters.co.uk/2026-conference-workshop/ to learn more and secure your place.
