Seth Waugh will step down as PGA of America CEO when his contract ends on June 30.
He has been in the role for six years, navigating challenges like the PGA Tour and Saudi PIF merger, golf ball rollback, and Covid pandemic.
Waugh won’t leave entirely; he’ll become a ‘Senior Advisor’ at the PGA of America.
Kerry Haigh will be interim CEO while they search for a permanent replacement. Haigh is not in the running for the full-time position.
Leadership Transition
In a statement, Waugh said: “I recently informed the board that I would not be renewing my contract that is set to expire on June 30, but am honored to continue to serve the association as a Senior Advisor.” He added it was an honor to serve as CEO and praised his colleagues and members.
Fans might think this change brings new opportunities for growth.
Waugh expressed pride in their accomplishments over six years. “The day-to-day game has never been stronger,” he said. He believes they’ve improved lives through golf.
PGA President John Lindert thanked Waugh: “On behalf of more than 30,000 PGA professionals, we are grateful for Seth’s leadership.”
Waugh joined PGA of America in August 2018 after being an independent director on the PGA Tour’s board. His first official day was September 24.
Achievements During Tenure
During Covid-19, Waugh made key decisions like postponing the Ryder Cup so fans could attend safely. He’s worth over $80 million and helped negotiate media rights deals with CBS and ESPN. He also led moving headquarters to Texas and raised nearly $150 million for charity.
Though he initially opposed it, Waugh eventually supported a single rule on golf ball rollback instead of bifurcation. “We are glad that it’s one rule,” he said.
Future Deals
While not directly involved in negotiations between PGA Tour and Saudi PIF, Waugh spoke about needing unification: “I hope there’s a deal… both sides need something to happen.”
What do you think about this leadership change?
