New St Andrews Links Trust chief executive appointed

A second high-profile executive golf post in St Andrews is set to be filled by someone who has been working in rugby.

After former Northampton Saints chief executive Mark Darbon took over from Martin Slumbers as The R&A’s CEO, Richard Holland has now been appointed as the new chief executive of St Andrews Links Trust.

Holland, who succeeds Neil Coulson following his departure earlier this year, was previously chief executive of Cardiff Rugby for 14 years.

Richard Holland has been appointed as the new chief executive of St Andrews Links Trust | St Andrews Links Trust

Prior to that, a wide-ranging career has seen him in a variety of leadership roles, including executive director of Chepstow and Hereford racecourses, and vice-president of corporate relations and sales at the Celtic Manor in Wales, which hosted the 2010 Ryder Cup.

“I’m honoured to be appointed to lead the home of golf into its next chapter,” said Holland. “St Andrews Links has an extraordinary history, and I’m excited to play a part in ensuring we continue to respect what has gone before, while shaping an exciting future as golf grows in popularity and inspires people around the world, and right here in St Andrews.”

The Old Course is set to stage The Open for a record 31st time next summer, with a number of tweaks being made to the historic layout last winter.

Commenting on Holland’s appointment, Sandra Tuddenham, Chair of Trustees at St Andrews Links Trust, said: “We are confident that he will build on the Trust’s proud legacy while shaping a sustainable future for the home of golf.”