Gibson takes reins at Wentworth Club

PGA Professional Stephen Gibson (left) is to succeed Julian Small as chief executive of the Wentworth Club.

Gibson brings more than 20 years of experience to the role and has been director of golf at the club for the past eight years.

“I am honoured to have been asked by Dr Chanchai Ruayrungruang to become chief executive of Wentworth Club and I look forward to leading such a prestigious and historic club into its next exciting chapter,” said Gibson.

Dr Ruayrungruang, founder of the parent company Reignwood Group and chairman of Wentworth Club, added: “After thorough and careful consideration and to ensure continuity in the management team, I am delighted to appoint Stephen.

“He has a thorough understanding of the needs of Wentworth Club and is looking forward to guiding its future development under the ownership of Reignwood Group.

“Julian decided earlier this year to step down after almost twenty years at Wentworth Club. I would like to thank Julian for the continuous hard work and dedicated service he has shown and for the professionalism he has shown whilst working for Reignwood Group.

“We have invited him to be an honorary member of the club and he will remain as an advisor to Reignwood.”

Julian Small commented: “It has been a privilege to have been chief executive of Wentworth Club, but I think the time is right to take on a new challenge.

“Over the years I have been fortunate to have enjoyed the help and support of so many people. From Elliott Bernerd and Willy Bauer, Richard Caring and in recent times Dr Chanchai Ruayrungruang and Songhua Ni of the Reignwood Group, George O’Grady and his team at the European Tour, the various club captains and numerous members and the fantastic team who have worked with me at the club.”