The PGA of Great Britain & Ireland is seeking an experienced and strategic leader to assume the role of Chief Executive following Robert Maxfield’s decision to step down after nine years in post at the end of the current year.
The position is responsible for the overall leadership and operational management of the Association, as well as setting and delivering the strategic direction as approved by the Board of Directors.
Reporting through the Chair to the Board, the Chief Executive will lead the Senior Leadership Team and act as the primary ambassador for the Association. The successful candidate will ensure the continued delivery of the PGA’s core mission: to support circa 8,500 Members worldwide, to promote the game of golf, and to uphold the highest professional standards across the industry.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide strategic and operational leadership to develop and deliver a clear five-year business plan, in alignment with the Board’s vision.
- Ensure the financial sustainability and growth of the Association through robust planning, diversified income generation, and sound fiscal management.
- Act as the principal representative of The PGA, fostering and maintaining critical relationships with key stakeholders, golfing bodies, the golf industry, PGA Members and commercial partners.
- Champion the interests and value of PGA Members, ensuring the Association’s services effectively support their personal and professional lives including their: career; development; reputation; influence and contribution to the game.
- Uphold the highest standards of governance, compliance, and risk management across all Association activities.
- Lead the Senior Leadership team and PGA staff to achieve operational excellence, continuous improvement, and a high-performance culture.
- Cultivate an inclusive, professional, and safe working environment that reflects the Association’s values.
Candidate Profile
The ideal candidate will be an accomplished senior executive with a proven track record of leadership in a complex, multi-stakeholder environment. Essential qualifications include:
- Significant experience in strategic leadership, business planning, and financial management at Board level.
- Demonstrable success in building and motivating high-performing teams and managing organisational change.
- Excellent ambassadorial and communication skills, with experience acting as a credible spokesperson.
- A strong understanding of governance frameworks, preferably within a membership organisation or similar structure.
- A comprehensive understanding of the golf industry and its structure; an active interest in the game is required.
- Proven ability to develop commercial partnerships and diversify revenue streams.
- High levels of personal integrity, resilience, and a customer-centric approach.
For more information, or to arrange a confidential discussion about this appointment, please contact the Association’s search partner, Colt Mackenzie McNair. The closing date for applications is January 26, 2026.
