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From Chigwell to Ladybank, Gullane and ultimately Swinley Forest – what does it take to reach the top of golf club management?

In this episode of Grapes & Greens, we sit down with Gordon Simpson, Secretary of Swinley Forest Golf Club, to explore a fascinating career journey through some of the most respected clubs in British golf.

Gordon reflects on the experiences, opportunities and challenges that shaped his career, the lessons learned at each club and how those experiences prepared him for his current role at Swinley Forest, one of England's most prestigious private members' clubs.

We discuss what makes a great club manager, the importance of understanding members, building strong teams and balancing the traditions of historic golf clubs with the demands of modern-day management.

We also get behind the scenes at Swinley Forest, exploring what makes the club so special and the responsibility that comes with leading an institution with such a remarkable reputation.

An engaging conversation about ambition, career progression, leadership and the people and relationships that make the golf industry such a fascinating place to work.

Grapes & Greens – where golf, wine, travel and business come together.

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I’m joined by David Hyland, Co-Founder of Business in Golf, who brings a fascinating perspective to the business of golf.

David spent more than 20 years working with some of the world’s biggest consumer brands, including Diageo, Coca-Cola and Müller, developing his experience in commercial strategy, innovation and understanding what drives consumer behaviour.

Now, he’s applying that experience to an industry he’s passionate about: golf.

Alongside his wife and Co-Founder, Lee-Ann, David is building Business in Golf, an independent media platform exploring the people, brands, businesses and investment shaping the global golf industry.

In our conversation, we look at what golf can learn from other industries, where the biggest commercial opportunities may lie, how consumer expectations are changing, and what it takes to build a successful business in golf.

Whether you work in the industry or simply want to understand where golf is heading next, there’s plenty to take away from this conversation.

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In this episode of Grapes & Greens, we sit down with Rob Tankard, Managing Director of J.Lindeberg UK, to explore the story behind one of the most distinctive brands at the intersection of golf, fashion and lifestyle.

Having spent 12 years with J.Lindeberg, Rob has played a key role in the brand’s growth and development, helping it establish itself as a global name with a reported turnover of £140 million. We discuss the evolution of the brand, its Swedish heritage, the influence of fashion on modern golf and how J.Lindeberg continues to challenge traditional perceptions of golf apparel.

Rob also shares his insights into the changing landscape of the golf industry, the importance of brand identity and the growing connection between golf, luxury and lifestyle.

From the fairways to the fashion world, this is a fascinating conversation about ambition, innovation and the people shaping the future of golf.

Listen now to discover the story behind J.Lindeberg and the vision driving the brand forward.

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In the opening episode of Series 4, Grapes & Greens heads to the stunning Costa Navarino in Greece to meet David Ashington, General Manager of Golf at one of the world’s most exciting luxury golf destinations.

From his journey in golf to the vision behind Costa Navarino, David shares the story of a resort that is redefining the modern golf experience—bringing together world-class courses, exceptional hospitality, a deep connection to the local community, and a commitment to creating something truly special.

Recorded across the spectacular landscapes of Costa Navarino, this is a conversation about golf, wine, travel, ambition and the people who bring a destination to life.

Niall Flanagan sits down with David to explore what makes Costa Navarino so unique, the future of golf and the importance of creating experiences that stay with you long after the final putt.

Welcome to Series 4 of Grapes & Greens.

A new series of conversations with the people, places and brands shaping the world of golf and wine.

Watch the episode and discover Costa Navarino through the eyes of David Ashington.

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Richard joins us to discuss his move from Sporting Insights to Lyvera, why he made the move and how Lyvera fits within the wider Compass Group.
But the conversation goes much further.‍

We look at the rise of sportainment — the growing convergence of sport, hospitality, entertainment, food, wine and premium experiences — and ask what it means for the future of the industry.

How do you turn a sporting experience into something people want to remember, share and come back for? And where are the biggest opportunities for golf?‍

Richard gives his perspective on where the industry is heading and how Lyvera is looking to play a role in shaping that future.‍ A fitting way to close Series 3 of Grapes & Greens — The Golf Industry Podcast.‍

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This week we are joined by Liam Botham, whose journey from elite sport into business is both inspiring and fascinating.

Now leading the growth of Lani EV across Europe, the Middle East and Africa, Liam is helping transform the electric vehicle market with premium vehicles designed not only for golf clubs, but also for private residences, luxury resorts, hotels and modern residential communities, where stylish, sustainable transport is becoming part of everyday life.

Want to get to grips with electric mobility, sustainability and innovation and the importance of customer service in the industry, check this episode out!

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From taking the iconic McLaren name into the golfing world, to working alongside Justin Rose on product development, Neil shares the vision, ambition and attention to detail that sits behind every aspect of the brand.

We also discuss something every business leader can relate to .. the importance of listening to your customers. Neil speaks candidly about the feedback McLaren Golf has received since launch, the positive response from golfers around the world, and how constructive criticism has helped refine both the products and the brand's direction.

It was a fascinating discussion covering innovation, leadership, brand building and the future of golf. A huge thank you to Neil for taking the time to join us and for sharing such honest insights.

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Enjoy out next episode bringing you a conversation with Phillip Allen, President of Marine and Lawn, exploring the world of high-end hospitality and the creation of distinctive, golf-centred experiences in some of the game’s most characterful destinations.

Phillip shares a thoughtful perspective on what it takes to build memorable stays around great golf, from heritage and location to service, atmosphere, and the finer details that shape a truly elevated guest experience.

A valuable listen for anyone interested in the golf business, hospitality, travel, or the growing demand for premium experiences around the sport.