Former lawyer to take over from current incumbent Nic Coward subject to his appointment being ratified at England Golf's annual general meeting.
Ian Pattinson
England Golf is delighted to announce that former lawyer Ian Pattinson will become the organisation’s new Independent Chair subject to his appointment being ratified at the annual general meeting on Thursday 20 April.
Ian will take over from Nic Coward who departs after six successful years in the role, a period during which he showed tremendous support, leadership and direction, notably throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.
Ian has been selected after a meticulous appointment process headed by England Board member Wasim Haq, who also Chairs the Nominations Committee. A number of high-calibre candidates were interviewed but Ian’s considerable golf experience, knowledge and support for England Golf’s strategic values and direction won through.
Formerly Chairman of The R&A between 2018 and 2022, Ian also previously chaired the Rules of Golf Committee and the Equipment Standards Committee and also became Co-Chairman of the Administrative Committee of the International Golf Federation.
In addition to his committee and board duties, Ian has acted as a Rules Official at all four men’s major championships on multiple occasions and the Curtis Cup, Walker Cup and Solheim Cup. He also acted as Rules Advisor to BBC TV for The Open from 2004 to 2015 and in the same capacity to Sky Sports from 2016 to 2018.
In April, Ian will become President of his home Club, Royal Worlington & Newmarket Golf Club, of which he was Captain in its Centenary year and is an Honorary Member.
Note to editors: About England Golf
We are dedicated to growing the game of golf in England. As one of the country’s largest sport governing bodies, we look after the interests of around 1,800 golf clubs and 737,000 golf club members. Golf is our passion. We develop and nurture the game by:
Promoting golf as an open, welcoming, inclusive and fun sport for everyone regardless of age, gender, ethnicity or ability
Inspiring new golfers with our innovative campaigns
Encouraging new golfers to value the benefits of club membership
Working with partners to offer business support to clubs
Staging top-class championships and competitions for all ages and abilities
Coaching national squad players to follow in the footsteps of past graduates including Justin Rose, Tommy Fleetwood, Georgia Hall and Bronte Law.
Contact details:
Ben White, Communications and Data Director
Tel: 07583 400213
Email: pr@englandgolf.org