Where are you from originally?
Originally from a small village called Binfield, Berkshire, UK, about 15 minutes from Windsor.
What kickstarted your career in golf management?
My work experience in Thailand at the age of 18 was a game-changer for my career in golf management. I was working under a great GM of a well-known club in Thailand, and he opened my eyes to a whole new world within the world of golf. It gave me an honest look at how a golf facility runs and sparked a fire in me for the industry. This experience pushed me towards a management career. It showed me the wide world of opportunities out there, inspiring me to seek roles in various countries, eventually leading to my first job in Cambodia.
Please name all the golf clubs you have worked for.
- Sand Martins Golf Club – Berkshire, UK
- Phokeethra Country Club (Sofitel) – Siem Reap, Cambodia
- Pine Rock Golf Club – Beidaihe, China
- Ba Na Hills Golf Club – Danang, Vietnam
- The Players Club – Beijing, China
- Thai Country Club – Bangkok, Thailand
Your current position is regarded as one of the top jobs in Thai golf. Is there a big difference between Thai CC and other clubs in Asia?
Every club has its unique characteristics, and Thai Country Club is no different. The club has a great reputation in the region, largely due to its exceptional level of hospitality and service. This has always been the differentiator. Yes, the golf course is always in good condition, and the hardware, in general, is maintained very well, but the sense of community, through hospitality and a focus on the experience, is what really defines us. This has been the case for nearly 30 years. I won’t say there is a big difference with other clubs in Asia, but I will say all clubs are different in their own unique way.
What are your goals at the club over the next few years?
Over the next few years, we have some key objectives that we are excited to pursue:
- Due to the wear and tear of three decades, our golf course needs upgrades in various areas. We are committed to enhancing the infrastructure by improving irrigation, drainage, cart paths, and more.
- We aim to leverage technology to provide our members with efficient solutions that enhance their overall experience. This will also help us streamline operations, allowing us to focus on more critical tasks.
- Sustainability remains a top priority for us.
After achieving GEO certification last year, we are dedicated to maintaining and expanding our sustainable practices and solutions. We take pride in our progress and are determined to continue making positive strides.
What are your favorite courses to play in SE Asia?
That’s a really tough question to answer because the reality is there are so many. We are very fortunate to have such a great selection of courses in the region. My favorites vary depending on where I am traveling to, but I’m a big fan of Sentosa GC in Singapore, Clearwater Bay in Hong Kong, Bali National, and Ba Na Hills in Danang, to name a few! The truth is, I find it fascinating to play different courses because every single one has a different experience.
