Derek Sprague has been appointed as the new CEO of the PGA of America, marking a significant milestone as he is the first club professional to hold this position in nearly two decades.
Sprague’s extensive career includes 25 years at his local Malone Golf Club in New York, and he also becomes the initial CEO with prior experience serving as the PGA president. He succeeds Seth Waugh, who was previously the CEO of Deutsche Bank Americas and held the role from 2018 until his retirement announcement earlier this year.
Don Rea Jr., the current president of the PGA of America, expressed confidence in Sprague’s leadership, stating that having someone who understands the intricacies of the association and embodies the PGA membership will position the organization for ongoing success in the future.
A PGA member since 1993, Sprague’s most recent role was as general manager of TPC Sawgrass, having joined the team in 2018 after his time at Liberty National in New Jersey, which notably hosted the Presidents Cup during his leadership.
In 2016, during his term as PGA president, Jimmy Walker secured victory at the PGA Championship held at Baltusrol, overcoming a challenging and rain-affected tournament that almost extended into Monday. Walker’s role in presenting the Wanamaker Trophy was one of his final acts in office.
Sprague’s beginnings trace back to upstate New York, where he managed all operations at the Malone Golf Club as the general manager and director of golf.
His appointment comes amid notable changes in golf leadership across various organizations. Martin Slumbers has announced his retirement from the R&A, while Mollie Marcoux Samaan recently stepped down as the LPGA commissioner. Concurrently, Guy Kinnings has completed his first year as CEO of the European Tour. Additionally, PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan revealed a search is underway for a new CEO for PGA Tour Enterprises.
In a recent announcement, the PGA of America disclosed that Ryder Cup players will receive compensation for the first time, featuring a combined total of $300,000 designated for charity and a $200,000 stipend.
Upon his selection, Sprague articulated his commitment to collaboration, stating, “Throughout my career, I have prioritized uniting individuals around common objectives. Amidst remarkable changes in the world of golf, we also have significant opportunities for our association and members.”
He underscored the responsibility he shares with the officers and board to enhance the profession for over 30,000 PGA golf professionals while safeguarding the association’s well-being and strengthening relationships within the industry.
Jim Awtrey, the first CEO of the PGA of America back in 1993, served until 2005 before being succeeded by broadcast executive Joe Steranka. He was then followed by Pete Bevacqua, who was a business officer at the USGA before taking a role with NBC, and later transitioned to being the athletic director at Notre Dame. Waugh took over after Bevacqua’s departure.
Since Seth Waugh’s retirement in June, Kerry Haigh, the chief championships officer of the PGA of America, has been acting as the interim CEO.