The boss of Edinburgh’s Tattoo is to take over the management of St Andrews’ golf courses.
Euan Loudon has been appointed chief executive of St Andrews Links Trust, succeeding Alan McGregor who earlier this year announced he would be stepping down.
Mr Loudon (54) will take up his new role early next year. The trust manages and maintains seven public golf courses in St Andrews, including the Old Course.
A former assistant professional golfer, Mr Loudon joined the army in 1974 and quickly rose through the ranks.
He commanded the 1st Battalion, The Royal Highland Fusiliers, and in his final appointment, with the rank of major general, he was general officer commanding the army’s 2nd Division and governor of Edinburgh Castle.
In 1991, Mr Loudon was awarded the OBE for operational service in the Gulf as the chief of staff of the Desert Rats. In 2004 he was appointed CBE for operational service in Northern Ireland.
He took up the position with the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo in 2007. During his tenure the company achieved record profits in 2009 and was given the Queen’s Award for Enterprise in the International Trade section.
He has operated at senior board level on the home and international fronts for 10 years. Mr Loudon’s appointment by links trustees followed the advertising of the position earlier this year.
Chairman of the trustees Peter Forster said, “We are delighted to have recruited someone of Euan’s background, ability and experience.
“The trustees, links management committee and management of the trust look forward to working with Euan to ensure that the home of golf continues to prosper.”
Mr Loudon said, “I feel privileged to have been appointed to such a high profile position. St Andrews Links is recognised as one of the world’s finest golfing destinations, and I look forward to developing that reputation even further in the years ahead.”