2026 Conference Speakers
Karen Lyttle
Director of Technology at The R&A
Karen Lyttle
Director of Technology at The R&A
Karen is the Director of Technology at The R&A, where she leads four teams (Technical Delivery, Change, Operations & Support, and Data) in delivering and enabling Technology & Data across The R&A, The Open, and the AIG Women’s Open.
Over the last 4 years, Karen has led The R&A through technology transformation. She has restructured and expanded The R&A’s Technology Department and operating model, introduced portfolio management and project governance practices, and built a culture of creativity, collaboration, and continuous learning. Her work focuses on aligning innovation with strategic objectives, empowering teams, and delivering secure, scalable solutions that support the organisation’s ambitious strategy.
Karen was in the first cohort of The R&A’s Women in Golf Leadership Development programme, which forms part of The R&A’s ongoing commitment to the Women in Golf Charter. The Leadership Programme is designed to build confidence, enhance communication and strategic thinking skills as well as build participants understanding of effective leadership in a sporting context.
Keynote summary
In this opening keynote, Karen will reflect on her leadership journey as a woman working in golf and technology. She will share how she has brought her style and creativity to her role at The R&A, guiding both the organisation and technology department through a period of technology transformation. She will share practical takeaways for delegates to consider in their own roles, setting the tone for thoughtful discussion and ambitious conversations throughout the conference.
Gary Firkins
Founder, LANDMARK
Gary Firkins
Founder, LANDMARK
Gary Firkins is the Founder of LANDMARK, a brand marketing and PR agency specialising in golf. The agency is a trusted partner to luxury resorts, private clubs and international organizations, including the European Tour Group.
LANDMARK has been a leader in the field of sustainable golf, helping golf businesses demonstrate and communicate their actions. For more than a decade, LANDMARK has worked closely with Syngenta and its Changing the Business of Golf campaign, bringing insights, stories and practical solutions for golf course business owners, leaders and managers. Gary, a former journalist, is also the presenter of Syngenta's Green Report, a YouTube documentary series showcasing leading sustainable golf courses, as well as the Changing the Business of Golf podcast.
Simon Elsworth
Global Head of Professional Solutions, Syngenta
Simon Elsworth
Global Head of Professional Solutions, Syngenta
Simon Elsworth is Global Head of Syngenta Professional Solutions. Based at Syngenta’s Global Headquarters in Basel, Switzerland, Simon has over 30 years of industry experience spanning commercial, technical, marketing, and leadership roles. With a sharp focus on delivering value and solving customers problems, he has led the development of a business founded on R&D, with a portfolio of sustainable solutions which integrate a range of products and technologies.
Simon leads Syngenta’s global teams delivering new innovations and digital tools that help superintendents and course managers make smarter, data-driven decisions for the era of precision turf agronomy.
He holds a BSc in Agriculture from Edinburgh University and an MBA.
Gina Rizzi
President ARCUS Marketing Group | Radius Sports Group | BMP Hero | VRA Connect
Gina Rizzi
President ARCUS Marketing Group | Radius Sports Group | BMP Hero | VRA Connect
Gina Rizzi is an entrepreneur, speaker, and creative force behind some of golf’s most forward-thinking sustainability and data-driven initiatives.
With more than 25 years of experience blending innovation, analytics, and purpose, she leads ARCUS Marketing Group and Radius Sports Group, and founded BMP Hero and VRA Connect - platforms that make it easier for golf courses to measure, manage, and communicate their impact.
Her teams lead groundbreaking initiatives - from the New York Golf Economic & Environmental Impact Study to global efforts advancing best management practices in golf.
She earned her MBA from the University of Notre Dame, her BA from Michigan State University, and Certificate in Sustainable Energy Management from Presidio Graduate School.
Gina is a recognized thought leader on profit with purpose and sustainability, creator of the first-of-its-kind educational series Turfbusters, and a trusted voice shaping how golf measures and communicates its economic, environmental, and community impacts. She resides in Reno, Nevada, where she enjoys running, hiking, and fly- fishing.
Sarah Stirk
Sky Sports Golf Presenter
Sarah Stirk
Sky Sports Golf Presenter
Renowned for her expertise, knowledge and professional approach, Sarah is one of the main hosts of Sky Sports golf coverage, working across the European Tour and PGA Tour. She began her career presenting and reporting for MUTV, before time spent at the BBC, Setanta and Sky News. Sarah moved across to Sky Sports in 2012, where she has become one of the network’s most valued presenters.
Sarah’s role is a mixture of studio presentation in London and hosting the output on site across Europe and the United States. She also acts as a reporter for the Major championships, interviewing the world’s best golfers and operating the touch screen, otherwise known as the Sky Sports Golf cart! Sarah is a nationally accredited journalist and writes for various titles and publications including Golf News, The Mirror, Ultratravel, The Financial Times and The Telegraph.
Sarah is a 7 handicap golfer and keen entrepreneur having built a luxury golf travel business, which was later sold to Golfbreaks.com. She is passionate about sport, travel, fitness, business and personal development and is also an aspiring drummer! Sarah also recently launched a Women’s Leadership Summit, which is sponsored by the R&A.
Bob Morse
President & COO of Invited Clubs
Bob Morse
President & COO of Invited Clubs
Robert (Bob) Morse has served as our President and Chief Operating Officer since September 2020, and was Chief Operating Officer from January 2019 to August 2020. Prior to his role at Invited, Morse served as President of Hospitality for Caesars Entertainment
Corporation in Las Vegas, where he was responsible for development, implementation and execution of Caesars hospitality strategy throughout the company’s network of resorts.
His experience throughout his vast nearly 30-year career in the industry also includes executive operations positions managing sales and marketing, human resources, information technology, hotel accounting, design and construction and the opening of new properties. Bob holds a B.S. in Hotel and Restaurant Administration from the University of Massachusetts.
Nathanaël Pietrzak-Swirc
Chief Executive Officer, Ugolf International
Nathanaël Pietrzak-Swirc
Chief Executive Officer, Ugolf International
Nathanaël Pietrzak-Swirc, CCM, is the CEO of Ugolf International, the international branch of UGOLF. After obtaining his golf management diploma and gaining 10 years of experience in the golf industry, he joined UGOLF in 2014. He has successfully held the positions of golf director and area manager, and since 2021, he has been in charge of the company’s international expansion.
He graduated as a Certified Club Manager in 2018 and serves on the board of the French Golf Managers’ Association, the board of the CMAE (Club Managers Association of Europe), and the board of the GCAE (Golf Club Association of Europe).
TJ Schier
CEO/Founder at Smash Swing Immersive
TJ Schier
CEO/Founder at Smash Swing Immersive
TJ Schier has walked many miles in operators’ and owners’ shoes and has cracked the code on what it takes to ignite a team of top performers focused on delivering amazing guest service.
TJ spends the majority of his time consulting and speaking in the competitive socializing, family entertainment center, and franchise space. He is the founder and CEO of a new golf-entertainment technology, SmashSwing Immersive – hitting the market in 2025. Prior to launching SmashSwing, he was the Chief Operating Officer of BigShots Golf owned by ClubCorp/Invited. BigShots Golf was the second-largest player in the golf-entertainment venue space and grew quickly (opened six in under 20 months) under his watch before being sold to the largest competitor in the space.
He has spent over two decades as a leading speaker and consultant in the guest service, employee development, and franchise spaces. He has delivered hundreds of keynotes and workshops to operators, franchise owners, GMs, and industry associations. TJ also built dozens of guest service and employee/manager training programs for quick-service, contract feeder, casual, and fine dining brands including Dave & Buster’s, Urban Air, Jersey Mike’s, Fogo de Chao, The Palm, Buffalo Wild Wings, McAlister’s Deli, Sodexo, and many independent operators such as the foodservice divisions of Harvard, Dartmouth, and Columbia University.
For much of his consulting and speaking career, he was also the largest multi-unit franchise owner of Which Wich Superior Sandwiches for over a dozen years. His group won numerous industry awards and recognition for their unique approach to hiring and training.
Prior to starting his speaking and consulting business, he spent 18 years at Chuck E. Cheese’s, leaving as VP of Field Support, opening over 75 locations, and providing recruiting, training, call center, and POS support for over 300 restaurants.
He has written numerous books used by thousands of business leaders and over 100 articles on guest service and motivating today’s generation. He is a 30+ year member of CHART (Council of Hotel and Restaurant Trainers) and a past board member and President of the organization. He has a BBA and MBA from the University of Texas.
Andi Jarvis
Master of Ceremonies
Andi Jarvis
Master of Ceremonies
Andi is the Founder and Chief Strategy Officer of Eximo Marketing, a marketing strategy consultancy based in Belfast and Liverpool.
Andi hosts the Strategy Sessions podcast, a show that interviews some of the best marketers in the world, including Seth Godin, Rory Sutherland and April Dunford.
Nuno Sepúlveda
Co-CEO of Details, S.A & Chairman, CNIG
Nuno Sepúlveda
Co-CEO of Details, S.A & Chairman, CNIG
Graduated in Agronomy from UTAD, holds a Master degree in Sport Surfaces Technology from Cranfied University.
He is currently Co-CEO of Details, S.A, the asset management company of Arrow Global Portugal, S.A. for Sports and Leisure.
In 2000, started his professional life as Director of Construction and Maintenance of the golf course at Morgado Golf & Country Club.
In 2007 co-founded ÁreaGolfe, S.A (Mota Engil Group) was General Manager in Portugal and was involved in projects of construction, maintenance and development of golf courses of superior standard.
Between 2010 and 2017 was Director of Golf Sales at Discovery Hotel Management Group, Director of Golf at Wyndham Hotels and Resorts and at Dolce Campo Real Lisbon and Penha Longa Hotel & Golf Resort.
In 2017 headed to Greece with TEMES S.A as Director of Golf and Sports Business Development, where oversaw the definition and implementation of golf strategies and sports business development at various hotels and golf courses. The strategic partnerships he developed, including the NBA Basketball School and Mouratoglou Tennis Center, demonstrate his vision, recognition and influence in the field.
Between 2020 and June 2023 was General Director of Costa Navarino Golf. For two and a half years, led this renowned golf destination that annually managed thousands of accommodation nights and golf laps. Under his guidance, inaugurated 2 new golf courses designed by Jose Maria Olzabal and contributed to the three 5-star hotels, the four signature golf courses and world-class spas to be a reference.
In 2022 the Costa Navarino was recognized as the best golf resort in Europe.
Since 2024 has been Chairman of the Board of CNIG - National Council of the Golf Industry, an association that represents almost all owners and managers of golf courses in Portugal.
Alyson McKechin
General Manager of Golf It!
Alyson McKechin
General Manager of Golf It!
Alyson McKechin, General Manager of Golf It! Glasgow by The R&A. I’ve been with Golf It! and The R&A for three and a half years, initially joining to deliver our schools programme before moving into the role of Head of Golf, and now into my current position as General Manager.
My background is in the golf industry, having worked across a range of clubs and facilities in Scotland, as well as playing professionally on the Ladies European Tour. I’m a qualified PGA Professional and still coach some of Scotland’s young golfers as they progress through the ranks.
Zoë Thacker
Development Manager for Europe R&A
Zoë Thacker
Development Manager for Europe R&A
Zoë joined The R&A as Development Manager for Europe in 2024. Previously, she worked for Wales Golf where, over the course of 15 years, she played a key role in shaping and influencing the development of the game across Wales. In her current role, Zoë works closely with European federations to support participation growth, strengthen development pathways, and drive sustainable growth of golf across emerging and established markets.
Jonathan Smith
Executive Director and Founder, Geo Foundation
Jonathan Smith
Executive Director and Founder, Geo Foundation
As founder and executive director of GEO Sustainable Golf Foundation, Jonathan has been a pioneer in the golf and sustainability movement for two decades. He brings a positive vision, progressive strategic direction, collaborative ethos and a genuine passion to help usher all parts of the industry to the forefront of sustainability. The Foundation is now a trusted advocate and solution provider for golf’s sustainability and climate action in 75 countries, collaborating with more than 50 golf associations spanning greenkeeping to Professional Tours and national governing bodies.
Michael Herd
Head of International Search & Consulting at KK&W
Michael Herd
Head of International Search & Consulting at KK&W
Based in the United Kingdom, Michael comes to KOPPLIN KUEBLER & WALLACE with over a
decade of experience in the golf and club industry. He most recently held the position of Managing Consultant with Colt Mackenzie McNair, an international executive search firm specializing in the placement of senior-level executives within the golf, leisure, and hospitality industries. Prior to pursuing a career in executive search, Michael was active in the golf industry working with the DP World Tour, West Hill Golf Club, and Wentworth Club in the United Kingdom.
Michael’s expertise spans multiple continents and has positioned him as a trusted industry leader. In recent years, Michael has successfully collaborated with renowned clubs across the globe, including those in the United Kingdom, Ireland, Europe, the Middle East, China, and Australia. His dedication to understanding the unique needs of each organization and sourcing leading candidates has earned him a stellar reputation in the industry.
Michael aligns with KK&W’s approach which extends beyond merely filling positions. He takes pride in nurturing talent and assisting professionals in their career growth. With his guidance and support, candidates are empowered to unlock their full potential and thrive in their respective roles.
Furthermore, Michael is committed to providing invaluable industry advice and insights to club boards and committees. His deep understanding of the international golf and club industry landscape enables him to provide innovative solutions and strategic best practices.
Karen Moss
Golf Marketing Director at Versant Media
Karen Moss
Golf Marketing Director at Versant Media
Karen is the Golf Marketing Director for Versant Media, the new company comprising former NBCUniversal brands Golf Channel, GolfNow, GolfPass and BRS Golf. She leads marketing for the international business across the UK, Ireland, Europe, Africa and Australia, specialising in multi-channel strategy and brand development. Karen also oversees partnership strategy, working with organisations including Sky Sports, TaylorMade, The R&A, Golfbreaks and others to grow the game and elevate its reach.
Karen led the international business’s commitment to The R&A’s Women in Golf Charter, making GolfNow, GolfPass and BRS Golf the first technology companies to sign. Under her leadership, the business has increased the visibility of women in golf by featuring female golfers in campaigns, spotlighting female coaches in instructional content, and supporting female employees through professional coaching, beginner golf programmes and inclusive playing opportunities.
From Portstewart, Northern Ireland, Karen grew up next door to Portstewart Golf Club, where her father was Manager for 40 years. She worked at both Portstewart and Royal Portrush Golf Clubs in her youth and rediscovered golf while working in the industry for NBC Sports and the Versant Media.
Karen holds a degree in Journalism and is a graduate of The R&A’s Women in Golf Leadership Development Programme.
Robert Mitchell
Director of Golf at La Cala Resort
Robert Mitchell
Director of Golf at La Cala Resort
Robert is the Director of Golf at La Cala Resort, a position that he has held for the last 8 years.
Born in Dublin, Robert spent his formative years in South Wales where he qualified as a PGA Professional in 2005 before making the move to Spain where he has spent the last 20.
La Cala Resort, owned by FBD Hotels & Resorts, is a premier golfing destination in the Costa del Sol, Spain, featuring three 18-hole championship courses designed by Cabell B. Robinson and a 9-hole Short Course. The full-service resort includes a 107 room hotel, a luxury spa, fitness centre, Golf Academy, and multiple dining venues. It also offers short and long stay rental accommodation as well as a wide Real Estate portfolio of apartments, townhouses, and plots for sale.
It was named Spain´s Best Golf Hotel in the 2025 World Golf Awards and Best Golf Resort in Spain at the 2024 IAGTO awards.
Ross Liggett
Founder & Managing Partner at Metolius Golf
Ross Liggett
Founder & Managing Partner at Metolius Golf
Ross Liggett is the Founder & Managing Partner at Metolius Golf, a marketing technology company focused on helping golf courses and private clubs leverage cutting-edge tools and technology. Ross is among the industry's foremost experts on cloud-based technology, digital marketing, and artificial intelligence. In 2025, Ross was named No. 25 on Golf Inc. Magazine's Most Powerful People in Golf list. Before founding Metolius, Ross started his career in golf operations and later served as a marketing, sales, and technology executive for several national multi-course operators. Ross lives in Fort Collins, Colorado, with his family of four and is a proud Virginia Tech Hokie.
Manna Justin
Founder and CEO of Courserev.ai
Manna Justin
Founder and CEO of Courserev.ai
Manna Justin is a serial entrepreneur who has founded multiple tech startups. He is the Founder and CEO of Courserev.ai which is the leading AI Company in the Golf industry. He is renowned for his forward-thinking approach to integrating AI and operational automation within the industry. With a dual focus on delivering
enhanced golfer experiences and streamlined management workflows, he has become a trusted partner for golf-course owners and managers who aim to elevate service while reducing manual overhead.
As a passionate advocate for technology-enabled growth, Manna leads initiatives that merge user-centric design, data-driven insights and operational efficiency — empowering organisations to transform how they run their venues and how customers engage with them. His content and thought leadership explore the impact of ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude and other emerging AI tools in real-world applications for sports operations and leisure businesses.
With over 25 years of experience running Technology companies in India, Europe and US, he currently manages multiple startups in different industries such as On demand fuel delivery, Ed-tech, hospitality, food and beverage, leisure, entertainment and golf.
Based in Alicante, Spain, he holds a unique vantage point bridging European business environments with global technology trends. Manna thrives on connecting people, sharing his insights at industry events, and nurturing networks that span both sport and tech communities. A self confessed Petrolhead, is passionate about motoracing, motorcycles, cars, aircrafts and golf.
Clive Mayhew
Owner of Golf.ai
Clive Mayhew
Owner of Golf.ai
Alastair Sinclair
CEO of PlayMoreGolf
Alastair Sinclair
CEO of PlayMoreGolf
Alastair Sinclair, the CEO of PlayMoreGolf, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the role. Prior to embarking on his journey in the golf industry over a decade ago, he spent over 20 years in Banking in London. This covered Mergers and Acquisitions through to restructuring large corporates businesses including multi national golf operators.
In August 2014, Alastair Sinclair took on the role of CEO at PlayMoreGolf, where his leadership and vision have propelled the company to new heights.
In addition to his professional and family commitments, Alastair is a passionate rugby and outdoor pursuits fan ranging from sailing through to gun dog training.
Tony Eccleston
Power Tee Managing Director, UK & Europe
Tony Eccleston
Power Tee Managing Director, UK & Europe
Tony Eccleston brings extensive leadership experience and commercial expertise to Power Tee, with a strong track record of driving growth, building high performing teams and strengthening brand presence across competitive UK and European markets. In his role, he leads Power Tee’s UK and European operations, set strategic direction, oversees day-to-day performance and accelerates expansion across the region.
Eccleston has more than 20 years’ experience in the sports industry, including over a decade in golf. His career includes leading the European golf category at Hi-Tec Sports, introducing premium Italian footwear brand Duca del Cosma to the UK and Ireland, and working with leading US golf brand Stitch Golf.
Craig Higgs
Managing Director, Golf Genius - International
Craig Higgs
Managing Director, Golf Genius - International
Craig Higgs is the Managing Director for the International Division of Golf Genius, the market-leading provider of innovative golf solutions used by over 10,000 private clubs, public courses, resorts and golfers in over 60 countries.
LinkedIn Profile
Matt Welliver
Director of Business Strategy for Lightspeed
Matt Welliver
Director of Business Strategy for Lightspeed
Danny Campbell
General Manager of Royal Portrush Golf Club
Danny Campbell
General Manager of Royal Portrush Golf Club
Danny joined St Andrews Links Trust in 1999, arriving from the world-famous department store, Harrods, at which he was responsible for the sports floor, with the remit to develop the retail business at the Home of Golf. Danny was a member of the Senior Executive Team at the Links for over 24 years, and oversaw the transformation of the retail operation from two to five stores as well as delivering an online shop. He also had overall responsibility to deliver the retail business for The Open and the successful wholesale and licensing relationships with organisations such as Harrods and Walt Disney World. In addition, Danny was also responsible for the global communications, hospitality operation and global partnership programme which included brands such as Allianz, Rolex, Callaway and NBC Sports. The global brand development also extended to Japan and Korea where over 60 St Andrews retail shops still operate to this day.
After 24 years at the Links, Danny decided to leave after the 150th Open, his fifth at St Andrews, and joined Royal Portrush Golf Club as General Manager in 2024 where he oversaw the delivery of his sixth Open. Danny leads the Club and works closely with all the
key stakeholders in Northern Ireland whilst delivering an experience to the Members and Visitors.
Danny was also the Chair of Governors at St Leonards School in St Andrews for three years along with being a non-executive director for the commercial business at the University of St Andrews. He is an avid golfer, plays off a handicap of four, enjoys cricket, rugby and spending time with his wife and son.
Brad Chard
COO of PlayMoreGolf
Brad Chard
COO of PlayMoreGolf
Brad started working in the Golf Industry 24 years ago. Previously, he worked as General Manager across a range of golf clubs.
In August 2021, Brad joined PlayMoreGolf. From members clubs, large proprietary clubs, and multi-site operations, Brad’s experience is varied. Given his strong golf operational background, Brad helps support his team as he has a good understanding of the challenges facing golf and leisure operations.
Finally, in his spare time, he is a volunteer football coach and likes to run or go to the gym on most days.
Dr Peter Bolan
Director - Golf Management at Ulster University
Dr Peter Bolan
Director - Golf Management at Ulster University
Dr Peter Bolan is Director for the Masters in Golf Management at the Ulster University Business School, and a Senior Lecturer in International Tourism
Management. Peter’s main research areas focus on golf tourism, film/screen tourism, digital tourism and food tourism, as well as some pedagogic research on the use of digital technology (including AI) in teaching and
business. Peter has published on all these areas in academic journals and leading tourism textbooks (winning a number of best paper awards at academic conferences), including recent research focusing on how golf tourism can act as a catalyst for coastal resort rejuvenation (through a case-study of The Open at Royal Portrush). He has also presented at Stormont (2015) on the importance of golf and golf tourism to the Northern Ireland economy, and been a member of the Destination Management and Event Delivery Committee for the Irish Open Golf Championship.
Valentine Godin
Founder and CEO of Maya
Valentine Godin
Founder and CEO of Maya
Valentine Godin is the founder and CEO of Maya, an AI-powered platform for precision turf and land management trusted by leading golf courses and sports venues worldwide. With proven experience in engineering leadership and AI implementation, Valentine specialises in translating complex agronomic and environmental data into practical, actionable strategies that greenkeepers can immediately apply. Her work focuses on making AI and data analytics accessible for turf professionals, helping them leverage connected technology to enhance turf quality, optimise resources, and support sustainable management practices while preserving the craftsmanship that defines exceptional course management.
Jason Connaughton
Territory Manager Turf Technologies at Bernhard Company
Jason Connaughton
Territory Manager Turf Technologies at Bernhard Company
Having joined Bernhard & Company in 2025 as Territory Manager for Turf Technologies, Jason leverages a 25-year tenure in international Sports Turf Management across Ireland, Australia, and the UK. More than just a manager, Jason is a specialist in agronomic optimisation. He pairs deep-rooted expertise in plant physiology and soil health with modern sensor technology to help turf managers move beyond intuition. By championing data-driven decision-making, Jason empowers his clients to refine nutrient inputs, manage moisture stress, and achieve elite-level turf performance and playability.
Michael Malone
VP Sales EMEA at TrackMan
Michael Malone
VP Sales EMEA at TrackMan
As the VP Sales EMEA at TrackMan, Michael oversees the sales and distribution of the world's leading ball flight measurement technology for sports, especially golf. specializing in ball-flight theory, hardware and software training, product demos, and educational workshops.
Ben Brooks
Director of Strategy & Consumer Insight at Sporting Insights
Ben Brooks
Director of Strategy & Consumer Insight at Sporting Insights
Ben Brooks is Director of Strategy & Consumer Insight at Sporting Insights, partnering with brands, retailers and industry bodies to turn market and consumer intelligence into clear, actionable commercial plans.
Previously, worked and led the global commercial innovation team at TaylorMade Golf, shaping long‑range strategy and regional execution across Asia‑Pacific, Europe and North America.
Previuls roles include working at Kantar, where he built the sports insight practice, growing annual revenues and advising cross‑sector clients.
Across 25 years in sport, working with global brands in golf, rugby, cricket, netball & hockey, Ben specialises in consumer insight and stakeholder collaboration that keep brands, events and governing bodies ahead across multiple sports categories.
Justin Binke
Director of Marketing, Revenue & Sales | Founders Group International
Justin Binke
Director of Marketing, Revenue & Sales | Founders Group International
Justin is a seasoned golf industry executive with over 20 years of expertise in golf course marketing, revenue management, and e-commerce strategy. As Director of Marketing, Revenue & Sales for Founders Group International—the premier owner and operator of 21 golf courses along South Carolina’s Myrtle Beach Grand Strand— he plays a pivotal role in shaping the brand’s visibility, driving tee time bookings, and cultivating long-term customer engagement.
A PGA Class A Member since 2005, Justin brings a deep understanding of the game and the business of golf. He specializes in leveraging data-driven marketing campaigns, dynamic pricing models, and digital media to enhance profitability and golfer satisfaction across a diverse portfolio of properties.
Matthew Davies
Recruitment Advertising Manager at The PGA
Matthew Davies
Recruitment Advertising Manager at The PGA
Matthew Davies has over 15 years’ experience working across the global golf and sports industry for The Professional Golfers’ Association. He currently serves as Recruitment Advertising Manager at The PGA, where he leads the strategic direction and performance of the organisation’s recruitment services, overseeing approximately 750 job advertisements annually.
Matthew played a central role in the development and launch of PGA Jobs, The PGA’s new recruitment platform, successfully driving adoption across the industry. Since launch in August 2025, the platform has attracted over 4000 registered candidates and more than 250 recruiting companies, establishing it as a key talent hub for the golf sector.
Previously, Matthew held several international and member-facing roles with The PGA, including Regional Manager – International, where he supported more than 1,400 members working overseas and represented The PGA across global markets. He was also responsible for the inception and delivery of the PGA Members’ International Conference, staged in Thailand, bringing together delegates and speakers from 14 countries.
Earlier in his career, Matthew worked in education, tournaments, and major event delivery, including roles supporting the Ryder Cup in both Europe and the USA. He holds a First Class Honours degree in Applied Golf Management Studies from the University of Birmingham and The PGA.
Nick Longley
Co-Founder at Inrange
Nick Longley
Co-Founder at Inrange
Inrange® co-founder, Nick Longley, has a strong background in finance and business management, which he has leveraged to co-found and lead Inrange®, a market leader in the golf technology sector. Under Nick’s leadership, Inrange® has launched globally in over 19 markets and brought award-winning software paired with patented radar ball-tracking to facilities looking to drive stronger revenue through their off-course offering. Nick's business acumen brought both the Inrange Consulting services as well as the Inrange Enterprise customer program to the fore - where the business operates as a 'much more than just tech' company.
Christophe Caporal
GolfNow VP International Development
Christophe Caporal
GolfNow VP International Development
Passionate about revolutionizing the golf industry, I specialize in helping golf businesses leverage digital transformation to optimize operations, drive revenue, and enhance customer experiences. With extensive experience in golf management, marketing, e-commerce, and international online booking, I work closely with clubs, resorts, and industry stakeholders to implement innovative solutions tailored to their needs.
As the Founder of Le Club-Golf and Mygreenfee.com, I have been at the forefront of digital evolution in golf since 25 years, leading the distribution of the Albatros golf club software, GolfNow, and VT Golf Solutions trusted platforms that streamline golf course management, tee time distributions, online bookings, and digital marketing strategies.
Duncan Rougvie
Head of Commercial at The PGA
Duncan Rougvie
Head of Commercial at The PGA
Duncan Rougvie is Head of Commercial at The PGA, where he leads the organisation’s commercial partnerships and PGA Branded Property licensing strategy. Since joining, he has driven significant growth across multiple revenue streams, securing major long-term international licencing deals and establishing new partnerships with leading global brands.
Prior to The PGA, Duncan held senior leadership roles across health and wellness businesses, specialising in the commercialisation of university spinouts and scaling early-stage ventures. In 2017, he founded The Revenue Club, a golf-focused start-up designed to help operators unlock revenue streams, building on over a decade of experience within golf resort operations and tee-time booking platforms.
Alongside his work in sport, he is a co-owner of a successful café business in Sheffield and a keen musician, with work featured on BBC radio, reflecting a broader interest in creative pursuits, building brands, communities and experiences both within and beyond golf.
Tom Irwin
Owner Sports Publications
Tom Irwin
Owner Sports Publications
Tom is the joint owner of Sports Publications Ltd, which consists of 18Players, National Club Golfer and the NCG Top100 Tour. He is a lifetime golfer, now over 30 years playing the game. He is approaching 15 years in the golf industry across publishing and digital marketing and has worked on marketing/advertising campaigns for the biggest names in golf, including The PGA, The R&A and a host of Top100 golf clubs.
Jeff Hansen
CTO, Tee Box & CEO, FORJ
Jeff Hansen
CTO, Tee Box & CEO, FORJ
Jeff Hansen is a golf industry entrepreneur and technologist at the forefront of the sport's digital transformation. As Chief Business Officer of Tee Box Holdings, Jeff oversees the strategic lines of business powering what has become the fastest-growing Player Development franchise in the world — building the infrastructure and partnerships that are reshaping how golfers at every level engage with the game. Tee Box Franchising has built the most comprehensive approach to helping golfers get better – Body, Swing and Equipment, all powered by the combination of leading technologies like TrackMan, Sportsbox, TPI, and Puttview, as well as proprietary operating systems and mobile apps for all franchise locations. Each location has a “Box Pro” that brings a holistic approach to instruction (included in membership), club fitting, and fitness, powered by a deep technology stack.
Jeff is also the Co-Founder and Managing Director of FORJ, the world's first AI-powered club fitting platform natively integrated directly into the TrackMan Portal. FORJ powers the full club sales cycle – from booking to OEM order fulfillment. At the center is the world’s first data-driven recommendations for both pre-fit analysis and in-fitting sessions across all major OEMs — bringing a level of precision and accessibility to custom fitting that the industry has never seen before. Underpinning the platform is the largest golf OEM database (and domain-specific LLM) ever built, which drives FORJ's intelligent, real-time fitting engine.
As a 5-time Founder with a 35-year career spent at the intersection of entrepreneurship, venture capital, and global sales and marketing in F100 companies as well as numerous start-ups, Jeff brings a hands-on perspective on how AI and data infrastructure are redefining performance, commerce, and the future of the golf industry. Jeff sits on 3 Boards and is a Venture Partner in two global VC funds based in the US and Sweden and is on the Entrepreneurship Board at Utah State and University of Utah.
Cormac Ryan
Director of Golf & Hospitality at Killeen Castle Golf Resort
Cormac Ryan
Director of Golf & Hospitality at Killeen Castle Golf Resort
Cormac Ryan is the Director of Golf & Hospitality at Killeen Castle Golf Resort, a role he has held since 2023 following his promotion from Golf & Clubhouse Manager.
Cormac has built his career within the golf and hospitality industry, specialising in operations, events, and premium guest experiences. Prior to joining Killeen Castle, he served as Staging Manager for the Solheim Cup and multiple Ladies Irish Opens, while also working across a number of European Tour and Regional events with IMG and the PGA of Ireland.
Killeen Castle, located in County Meath, is one of Ireland’s leading parkland golf destinations and has hosted globally recognised events including the Solheim Cup, 3 Ladies European Tour Events and is currently the home oto the HotelPlanner Tour's Irish Challenge for three consecutive seasons. In his current role, Cormac oversees all golf, hospitality, and event operations, leading a team of over 100 staff while driving commercial performance and member experiences.
Mark Wehrly
Director of Championships and Rules at Golf Ireland
Mark Wehrly
Director of Championships and Rules at Golf Ireland
Mark is the Director of Championships and Rules at Golf Ireland, where his responsibilities encompass overseeing championship operations, the application of the rules of the game, including the Rules of Golf, Rules of Handicapping and Rules of Amateur Status, and enhancing the overall player experience at events.
Mark has been involved in golf administration for over fifteen years and, before the creation of Golf Ireland, was Championship Manager at the Golfing Union of Ireland. He holds The R&A’s Level 4 Advanced Referee qualification, and has officiated at some of the game’s most prestigious events including The Open Championship on two occasions. He was Event Director for the 2018 World Amateur Team Championships at Carton House.
Steven Schorr
CEO of The Walden Group
Steven Schorr
CEO of The Walden Group
Steven Schorr holds an MBA from the Wharton school, and he has been involved in real estate as a developer and investor for more than 25 years. As the CEO of The Walden Group, he stewards a real estate portfolio of $2BB AUM of both commercial and residential properties across the United States. Over the past five years he has turned his focus to the world of golf and in addition to being an investor in CourseRev.ai, has built a portfolio of more than 30 golf courses
Naomh McElhatton
Irish Ambassador for Women in AI, Founder She Said Club & Business of AI Club.
Naomh McElhatton
Irish Ambassador for Women in AI, Founder She Said Club & Business of AI Club.
Naomh McElhatton is a prominent Irish entrepreneur, AI coach, and educator based in Northern Ireland. She is the Irish Ambassador for Women in AI, founder of the She Said Club, and leads the Business of AI Club.
Sam Barbee
Chief Revenue Officer at Obbi Club
Sam Barbee
Chief Revenue Officer at Obbi Club
Sam Barbee is Chief Revenue Officer at Obbi Club, where he helps golf clubs and leisure venues close the gap between the data they collect and the decisions they make. With 17 years in learning technology at Learning Pool — working with organisations including IHG, Leonardo Hotels, FIFA, the Premier League, and The FA — he brings hard-won experience of what it takes to turn operational data into real behaviour change.
Andrew Brooks
Co-Founder & CEO of Official Hole in 1
Andrew Brooks
Co-Founder & CEO of Official Hole in 1
Andrew Brooks is a tech entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience building and scaling businesses across sport and technology. He is Co-Founder and CEO of Official Hole in 1, the world's fastest-growing golf tech company, helping private and destination golf clubs generate new revenue through fully managed, insured hole-in-one competitions at zero cost to the club. Having recently closed a seed round, the company is now scaling internationally. Andrew is also the Founder of Kindtech, a SaaS platform for charities in the disability space.
Paul Gillmon
Head of Championships - DP World Tour
Paul Gillmon
Head of Championships - DP World Tour
Paul Gillmon has been Championship Director of the DP World Tour’s Amgen Irish Open since 2023. He brings extensive expertise across commercial and operational delivery, project management, experience design, and rights management, combining strategic oversight with hands‑on leadership.
Paul has a strong track record of managing complex stakeholder relationships, working closely with sponsors, host venues and governing bodies to deliver world‑class sporting events. His experience includes developing commercial strategies, overseeing financial and operational performance, and evolving events to maximise partner value and deepen audience engagement.
Prior to joining the DP World Tour, Paul built a distinguished international career delivering major global events, including the Olympic Games, Rugby World Cup, UEFA European Championships, and the MTV European Music Awards. He also worked extensively in the United States on the mass participation event series Tough Mudder, supporting the delivery and growth of a large‑scale event product with a strong focus on community building, participant engagement, and brand‑led fan experience at scale.
Within golf, while working for IMG, Paul has delivered a wide portfolio of elite tournaments, including The Women’s Open, Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship, Alfred Dunhill Links Championship, Johnnie Walker Championship, and The Senior Open Championship.
Golf Business Technology Conference 2025 Why you should attend
Golf Business Technology Conference is the must-attend B2B event that is exclusively dedicated to discussing advanced technologies and business services for the Golf Industry. The event agenda is designed to help Golf Course Owners and Operators stay on the cutting edge while creating new and meaningful connections with industry peers. Learn to better manage your course like an investment and understand the latest advancements in tech and entertainment whilst taking home powerful and innovative ideas that can improve your bottom line.
The 2026 conference will welcome attendees globally and will cover topics in Sustainability, Revenue Generation, Golf Entertainment, Operational Efficiency, Club Management, Leadership and much more.
- All-inclusive access to conference
- Participation in networking events
- Access to +50 speakers
- Invitation to Networking Lunches
- Access to VIP Lounge area
- Refreshments and Hor d'oeuvres
- Invitation to Networking Breakfast
- Invitation to Evening Drinks Reception
Executive Partners
Participating Companies
