Scottish Golf’s new Chief Executive Officer, Blane Dodds, started his role with the governing body for amateur golf this week (Monday 15 August).
With vast experience in the private and public sports sectors, the 49-year-old Scot is looking forward to beginning work in his new position.
Dodds has held various senior management roles within sports management and marketing, the health and fitness industry and Charitable Trusts. He is a former Scotland international tennis player and is the current Chair of Tennis Scotland. He is also UK President of the European Capital of Sport Association.
The keen golfer, who plays off a seven handicap at Kilmacolm Golf Club in Renfrewshire, has a proven track record of delivering increased participation, combined with experience of transformational change, notably in his most recent role as CEO of North Lanarkshire Leisure.
New Scottish Golf CEO Blane Dodds
Dodds said: “Being asked to lead the governing body of amateur golf in Scotland is a great honour and I look forward to going round the country to better understand the challenges faced by clubs and golfers.
“I want to ensure this great game continues to be at the heart of communities across Scotland and will work hard to build the partnerships needed to achieve that, putting down strong foundations for future generations of golfers.”
Dodds’ previous positions include Sales and Marketing Manager at David Lloyd Leisure, which included the creation of the first David Lloyd centre outside of London in Renfrew, before becoming founder and Managing Director of International Golf Network Limited, a web-based golf membership and tourism company.
He also worked at North Lanarkshire Council as Head of Cultural and Recreational Services and was Glasgow Club Manager for Glasgow City Council, leading their membership scheme following managing one of their flagship facilities.
He joined North Lanarkshire Council in 2002, before becoming CEO of North Lanarkshire Leisure in 2006 where he held the position until recently, overseeing significant changes to the business which has become one of the leading Sports & Leisure Trusts in Scotland.
Eleanor Cannon, Chair of Scottish Golf, said: “We are delighted to have attracted somebody of Blane’s talent and experience to Scottish Golf.
“The Board was excited at the vision and ambition articulated by Blane during the recruitment process and look forward to working with him and the team to better support our clubs and encourage more people into the game.”