The PGA of GB&I has appointed Nick Oakley as its new Chief Executive, marking a landmark moment for the organisation in its historic 125th year. Oakley steps into one of golf’s most significant administrative roles, bringing over 30 years of international experience spanning sport, entertainment, and the golf industry.
Nick Oakley Appointed PGA Chief Executive with World-Class Credentials
Make no mistake — this is a serious appointment. Oakley becomes only the third Chief Executive of the PGA since 1991, following Sandy Jones and Robert Maxfield. He qualified as a PGA Professional in 1999 and has since built a career that most in sport could only dream of. He served as Partner for Sport and Entertainment at PwC and spent nearly a decade at KPMG Sport, Leisure and Tourism, leading global advisory teams. Furthermore, his CV includes over three years as a senior executive at Leicester City Football Club and a board seat at the club’s charitable trust.
Beyond that, Oakley has worked at one of the world’s largest commercial sports agencies and played a key role in developing Yas Island in Abu Dhabi into a world-class sporting destination. Most recently, he worked alongside UAE-based businessman Abdulla Al Naboodah — a non-executive director of the European Tour Group, founder and chairman of Dubai Basketball, and a shareholder in the Al Naboodah Group — across a wide-ranging sports portfolio covering strategic initiatives and investment opportunities.
What This Means for the Future of the PGA
Consequently, the PGA looks to be setting itself up for a bold new era. PGA Chair Alan White didn’t hold back in his praise, stating: “He brings an exceptional breadth of leadership, strategic and industry experience, and the Board has every confidence in his ability to build on the strong foundations already in place.”
Oakley himself sounds fired up for the challenge. “It is a privilege to be appointed to lead The PGA at such an exciting time for the game and in the Association’s historic 125th year,” he said. “I understand and value the dedication, knowledge and pride that PGA Members bring to the game.” He takes up the position later this year, and if his track record is anything to go by, the PGA is in very capable hands.