Current role
Director of Golf and Senior Teaching Professional at Machynys Peninsula Golf & Country Club. www.machynys.com
“Being part of the AGMS degree opened doors to spend time with leaders in the fields of Equipment Technology, Golf Coaching, Psychology in Golf, Business Management and many more.”
Career experiences
Once gaining my degree and obtaining my full PGA qualification, I took on a permanent role as Golf Services Manager in which my responsibilities included the day to day running of corporate golf events and customer relations as well as the planning and implementation of the Ryder Cup 2010 European Tour’s Wales Ladies Championship of Europe for three successive years. In October 2009, I was appointed Academy Manager at the Golf Union of Wales Centre of Excellence at Machynys Peninsula. In 2010, I was appointed Director of Golf at Machynys Peninsula.
What is the best thing about what you are doing now?
Being on a board of directors is an exciting experience full of responsibility. Having input in to decisions that shape a multimillion pound organisation is a thrilling experience which has given me an in depth understanding of how large organisations operate.
What was the best thing about your time as an AGMS student?
Being part of the AGMS degree opened doors to spend time with leaders in the fields of Equipment Technology, Golf Coaching, Psychology in Golf, Business Management and many more. This provided me with the perfect springboard into the very competitive industry that is golf.
How did you grow as a person by coming to University? Did it change your life in any way?
You grow up very quickly at University. I arrived in Birmingham as an 18 year old with a goal to become a golf professional by the time I leave. However, your time at university isn’t just about studying and partying! You need to learn to manage your money effectively, find a place to live, pay bills and manage your social activities around your study (or sometimes the other way round!).
What were your expectations and experiences of Birmingham?
Birmingham is a place that will always be very close to my heart. After spending three years there I began to see why post grads end up staying there to live and work. My partner is from the region and I can honestly see myself living and working in or around the city in the future.
Advice for current students
Applying for the AGMS – Give it your best shot. I have no regrets about my time at the University of Birmingham and the AGMS degree. The knowledge you gain from the lecturers and the resources made available will hold you in good stead for the future whether you choose to work within the golf industry or not.?Studying AGMS – Don’t underestimate the importance of your summer placements. Have a vision of where you see yourself in 3 years time. Apply for placements with the right company that will provide you with the most experience and training to achieve your vision. Don’t just opt for the simple way out – it is all too easy to do this.