The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews has appointed a new chief executive.
Martin Slumbers began his tenure at the prestigious organisation yesterday, succeeding Peter Dawson who retired on Friday after 16 years of service.
Mr Slumbers, who joined the R&A as chief executive designate in March this year, paid tribute to his predecessor and pledged to push golf forward as a sport.
He said: “I am delighted to take on the challenge of leading the R&A and serving such a historic club.
“The organisation has been left in excellent health by my predecessor, Peter Dawson, and I look forward to building upon Peter’s success and working together with our committees and staff to ensure the R&A continues to play a leading role in golf’s global development.”
Born in Brighton and educated at Lancing College, Mr Slumbers, 55, gained a BSc in production engineering and economics from Birmingham University.
He qualified as a chartered accountant with Pricewaterhouse-Coopers in London before embarking on a career in investment banking with Salomon Brothers International and Deutsche Bank.
Mr Slumbers is a keen golfer and a member of Worplesdon Golf Club in Surrey, where he plays off a handicap of two.