The Role – Director of Governance
The R&A is seeking an exceptional and internationally-minded leader to oversee one of the most influential governance portfolios in world sport. The R&A’s purpose is to Open golf to the world. In that context, the Director of Governance will play a central role in shaping how golf is governed globally – protecting the integrity of the sport while ensuring it continues to evolve for future generations.
Working as part of the Global Golf Alliance leadership team, this role will oversee all aspects of The R&A’s governance responsibilities – rules of golf, handicapping, equipment standards, amateur golf rankings and amateur status – and the delivery of the strategic priorities in the ‘Unite’ pillar of The R&A’s Strategy ensuring that near-in objectives stay on track. The Director of Governance will also seek to expand our governance leadership portfolio into new and alternative formats of golf.
The role will work alongside the Chief Global Golf Alliance Officer to lead complex international relationships, influence the future direction of the sport and ensure governance frameworks remain progressive, agile and fit for a rapidly changing sporting landscape. A critical aspect of the role is building, strengthening and leading strategic relationships across the golf ecosystem, including with the United States Golf Association (USGA), national federations, PGAs, professional tours and other international and regional governing bodies.
Working closely with the Chief Global Golf Alliance Officer, Governance Committee Chairs, the Board of R&A Rules Ltd and key international partners, the role will strengthen alignment across the global game and reinforce The R&A’s position as a world-leading governing body.
This is a full-time position working 35 hours per week, with regular presence required at our St Andrews offices.
What We Offer
We offer a great benefits package including the following:
• Competitive Salary
• Company Pension Scheme and Sick Pay
Life Insurance Cover
Enhanced Maternity/Partner Pay
• 35 Days Holiday Per Year
Free tickets to The Open and AIG Women’s Open each year (and other relevant R&A Championships)
Cycle to Work Scheme
Season Ticket Loan
Contribution towards glasses for VDU use
• Discounts available across 800 UK retailers and local businesses
Who We Are Looking For
The ideal candidate will have the following experience and attributes:
• Significant senior leadership experience in sport governance, national or international sport governing bodies or a similarly complex environment
• Proven track record of delivering large-scale initiatives across multiple markets and regions.
• Experience leading complex stakeholder relationships and influencing at a senior level
• Deep understanding of the global golf landscape and the importance of governance in protecting and advancing the sport
• Experience managing substantial budgets and leading multi-disciplinary teams
• Strong ability to balance long-term strategy with operational delivery
• Excellent communication, influencing and presentation skills
• Collaborative and culturally aware leadership style with the ability to unite diverse stakeholders around shared objectives
• Strategic thinker with a global outlook and the ability to anticipate and respond to change
• Resilient, adaptable and comfortable operating in a fast-moving international environment
• Passion for sport and appreciation of golf’s heritage alongside a modern, inclusive, innovative and progressive mindset
• Strong alignment with The R&A’s purpose to open golf to the world
• Credible, resilient and confident representing The R&A on the global stage
• Commitment to integrity, fairness, collaboration and responsible leadership
How to Apply
Applications can be submitted either via LinkedIn here, or by sending your CV and covering letter to Recruitment@RandA.org