Marc Arnold: From Burnley to Bahrain and beyond

22/01/2025

PGA Professional Marc Arnold discusses a career path that has taken him from his native Burnley on an exicting journey through a variety of roles in the Middle East to his current position as the Cluster Director of Instruction at Viya Golf, with the responsibility of overseeing the coaching operations at three of Abu Dhabi’s top clubs – Saadiyat Beach, Yas Links and Yas Acres

Who first got you interested in golf and at what point did you think you would like to pursue a career in the golf industry?

My first experience of golf came when my dad took me to Nelson Golf Club in Lancashire for a golf lesson when I was 12 years old. It’s a small, welcoming members’ club near Burnley which is just five minutes from where I grew up.

My dad was an excellent footballer, and like many kids, I initially followed in his footsteps, playing football for various teams and thoroughly enjoying it. But as I grew older I started to question whether football was my true passion. My dad encouraged me to try golf, hoping it would keep me in good company and on a positive path. That’s how I began taking lessons, and from there, my love for the game steadily grew. After I turned 16, the club’s head professional Neil Reeves took me under his wing and I started working in the golf shop as an assistant.

What has been your career path to date?

I started my PGA training when I was about 23, after playing golf for several years. My first professional steps were at local golf clubs in Lancashire, followed by a role at Rossendale Driving Range, where I began the PGA Training Programme.

Those three years were a brilliant learning curve, working alongside a very talented and busy Head Professional, Mike Bardi.

Once I qualified, I joined Troon Golf at the Royal Golf Club in Bahrain, where I stayed for two fantastic years. After that, I moved to Al Hamra Golf Club as Head Teaching Professional under the mentorship of General Manager Paul Booth. I spent three invaluable years there before Covid disrupted things, leading me back to the UK for a seasonal role at Centurion Club in St Albans. While there, I worked on coaching programmes and events like the Ladies Aramco Team Series.

Eventually, I returned to Al Hamra before taking on the role of Senior Golf Professional at Yas Acres Golf & Country Club in Abu Dhabi, where I managed one of the best practice facilities in the UAE. Most recently, I’ve achieved my dream role as Cluster Director of Instruction, overseeing three prestigious golf clubs.

What attracted you to working overseas in the first instance?

I’d always had a desire to explore beyond Burnley, where I grew up. I wanted to challenge myself, work with people from different cultures, and experience something far beyond the familiar.

The facilities in the UAE and Middle East are absolutely world class – five-star quality all the way – and the consistent sunshine is another huge draw. There’s nothing quite like teaching on a stunning driving range with the sun on your back. It’s incredibly inspiring and energising.

What are your plans to enhance coaching across the Viya Golf venues?

My vision is to create bespoke coaching programmes tailored to the unique identities of each venue. At Yas Acres, for instance, we focus on beginner-friendly initiatives like ‘Get Into Golf’, while Yas Links has a more performance-driven approach, catering to elite golfers. Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, on the other hand, has a strong residential and community feel.

I’m also working to expand our junior programmes and build partnerships with schools such as Aldar Education, aiming to introduce more Emiratis to the game. It’s about making golf accessible and engaging for a wide variety of players, from beginners to seasoned pros. We are currently working on a big project at Yas Links and we also have some exciting plans for Saadiayt and Yas Acres which me and the team are extremely excited about.

What qualities do you look for when hiring a PGA Professional for a teaching role?

I look for individuals who are ambitious, confident, and willing to step out of their comfort zones. Moving abroad is a big decision, and it requires dedication and resilience – it’s certainly not an extended holiday. I also value professionals who are committed to their development, whether through certifications and ongoing education. Ultimately, it’s about finding people who are driven to grow and contribute meaningfully to the team.

Have you had mentors during your career?

I’ve been fortunate to have several amazing mentors, including Phil Waine, Paul Booth, Scott Evans and Freddie Rextrew. I am currently working alongside and learning for our recently appointed Cluster Club Manager, Karl Whitehead. Karl has been extremely supportive since I started the new role in October.

Each of them has brought a unique perspective to the table, whether through their management styles, approach, work ethic or team development.

They’ve taught me so much about leadership, professionalism and the importance of fostering positive relationships in the workplace.

How important has your PGA training been in preparing you for your current role?

My PGA training has been absolutely essential. It gave me a solid foundation in understanding the mechanics of the golf swing and the business side of the industry, from coaching strategies to custom fitting and beyond. It’s helped me carve out my career path and equipped me with the skills to work at some of the most prestigious venues in both the UK and the Middle East.

What do you know now that you wish you’d known when you first started?

I wish I’d approached things with a more open mind earlier in my career. Looking back, I regret not shadowing more coaches when I first moved to the UAE. I had access to some of the best professionals in the region, just an hour away, but I didn’t take full advantage of those opportunities to learn from them. It’s something I encourage young professionals to do – be proactive and soak up as much knowledge as you can.

What advice would you give to PGA Members interested in working abroad?

Be bold and take the leap – it’s an experience that will change your life for the better. You’ll gain so much, from cultural insights to personal and professional growth. You’ll meet incredible people and develop skills that will serve you well no matter where your career takes you. And even if it turns out not to be the right fit, you can always return home with valuable experiences under your belt.