The PGA of Australia has appointed experienced executive and company director Chris Chapman as an Independent Director to its Board, strengthening its governance and commercial leadership as the organisation advances its long-term strategic priorities, according to the media reports.
The appointment follows the organisation's recent Annual General Meeting and marks the end of Ric Lazar's 16-year tenure on the Board.
Chapman brings extensive experience across strategy, regulation, media, communications, sport and infrastructure, adding significant commercial and governance expertise to the Board, the PGA of Australia said on Linkedin post.
Welcome notes
Commenting on the appointment, PGA of Australia Chair Ian Baker-Finch said, "We are delighted to welcome Chris Chapman to the PGA of Australia Board.”
"Chris brings a strong background in strategy, governance, regulation, media, major venues and commercial leadership, along with a clear understanding of the PGA business model and the opportunities in front of professional golf,” he added
"That experience will be extremely valuable as we continue to strengthen the support and services we provide to PGA Members, build our education and workforce programs, and grow the Challenger PGA Tour of Australasia and WPGA Tour of Australasia,” Finch continued.
"Chris understands the importance of strong governance, commercial discipline and long-term thinking, and we are fortunate to have someone of his calibre joining the Board," Finch at the end commented.
Chapman to which responded, "The PGA of Australia plays the vital role across the global professional golf ecosystem, from supporting PGA Members and educating the future workforce through to operating Australasia's leading men's and women's Tours.
"I am very pleased to be joining the Board and look forward to contributing to the next phase of the PGA's strategic plan," he stated.
Gravin Kirkman, CEO, PGA Australia congratulated Chapman, “As someone who has worked with us on a number of projects in the past, his experience will prove invaluable as we continue to serve the best interests of our PGA Members and Australian golf through the support, education and services we provide, and grow both the Challenger PGA Tour of Australasia and WPGA Tour of Australasia.”
Background glimpse
Chapman has held senior leadership positions as chair and chief executive of major organisations including the Australian Communications and Media Authority, Seven Network and Stadium Australia. Since 2016, he has built a portfolio of non-executive director and advisory roles, including consulting assignments for both the PGA of Australia and Golf Australia.
His association with golf spans more than five decades, beginning as a junior caddie before later serving as president of the Royal Sydney Golf Club, where he led the redevelopment of the Championship Course.
Following Chapman's appointment, the PGA of Australia Board comprises member directors Ian Baker-Finch, Stephen Hutchison, Chris Crocker and Matt Griffin, alongside independent directors Carole Brownlee, Alison Watkins AM, Chris Chapman and Paul Lappin.