PGA appoints new deputy chief executive

It has been announced that Robert Maxfield has been appointed Deputy Chief Executive of The Professional Golfers’ Association and will take up the post on January 1, 2016.

He will work directly alongside current Chief Executive Sandy Jones to maintain the smooth day to day running of the Association. Maxfield will become Chief Executive when Jones steps down from his current post sometime after the 2016 Ryder Cup at Hazeltine, with the precise date to be finalised.

Maxfield, 48, has an extensive knowledge of both the amateur and professional game. As an amateur golfer, presently playing off a handicap of plus 2, he was an England schoolboy international and earned a golf scholarship at Florida State University.He has been involved within the amateur game at both club and county level serving as Captain of Wolstanton Golf Club in its centenary year, Captain of Staffordshire Golf and Captain of the Midland Counties as well as serving on various county committees.

Prior to working for The PGA, Maxfield was Director of Golf at The Belfry and Group Golf Director for The De Vere Group. During his time at The Belfry he was responsible for the delivery of three Ryder Cup Matches and numerous European Tour tournaments. In his current role as The PGA’s Joint Chief Operating Officer – Property and Commercial Director he is responsible for tournament operations, sponsorship, branding and media, marketing and communications.

David Murchie, Chairman of the PGA, commented: “Both myself and the entire Board are delighted to announce this unanimous appointment. Rob has an unwavering passion and understanding of all aspects of the game and an extremely broad knowledge of all matters relating to the business of the Association.”

Maxfield added: “I am extremely honoured and proud to accept this new position and look forward to becoming the next Chief Executive of The PGA. Whether it is coaching the world’s best players, managing golf facilities or encouraging the next generation of golfers our members play a vital role in the management and development of the game.

“Throughout the history of the Association, PGA Members have had to adapt to many changes, challenges and opportunities.I look forward to working alongside Sandy and then as Chief Executive to continue to support all our members and ensure they remain, as they have done since The PGA was formed in 1901, at the heart of the game.”