Mark Darbon, the highly-regarded CEO of the Northampton Saints rugby club, has been appointed as the new chief executive and secretary of The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews, replacing the retiring Martin Slumbers. This marks a significant shift for Darbon, who has expressed his excitement about transitioning into the world of golf.
“I am thrilled and honored to be taking up these positions,” Darbon said, clearly delighted by the opportunity. His passion for golf shines through as he speaks about joining a globally renowned organization like The R&A. “I am looking forward to working with a hugely talented team of staff, the club membership, and such an impressive array of partner organizations to achieve even more success in the years to come.”
Darbon, 45, isn’t just a fresh face in the sports executive world. He brings a wealth of experience from his previous roles. Notably, he played a senior role in the London Olympic and Paralympic Games organizing committee. Just last month, he led the Northampton Saints to their first Premiership title since 2014. He’s also had stints as senior vice president of Tough Mudder and CEO of Madison Sports Group, making him no stranger to the demands of high-level sports management.
Niall Farquharson, chairman of The R&A, shared his confidence in Darbon’s abilities. “We were greatly impressed with Mark’s knowledge and experience of the global sport industry and his ability to develop successful teams and deliver fantastic events,” Farquharson noted. “We believe he will be an excellent leader and will play a key role in helping us to achieve our goal of ensuring a prosperous and sustainable future for golf.”
As Martin Slumbers wraps up his nine-year tenure, he leaves behind a significant legacy. Slumbers will oversee this month’s Open Championship at Royal Troon Golf Course and the AIG Women’s Open at St. Andrews before stepping down. His departure marks the end of an era, but also the beginning of a new chapter with Darbon at the helm.
It’s worth noting that the golf world is seeing its fair share of executive changes. DP World Tour CEO Keith Pelley stepped down in April to take up a new role in Canada, and PGA of America CEO Seth Waugh recently announced he would not be renewing his contract. Meanwhile, all eyes are on Darbon as he takes up his new role, with expectations high as the golfing community looks forward to his leadership.
Mark Darbon’s appointment as the new chief executive of The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews is a significant and exciting development. With his vast experience and passion for sport, he seems poised to lead the club to new heights. As the golfing world watches closely, there is much anticipation for what the future holds under his leadership.
Source: Espn
