New greenkeepers conference 2027

James is an Assistant Championship Agronomist for The R&A.  James began his career in South Africa at the African Turf Academy. James has ten years of greenkeeping experience in several countries. He’s been an intern on the Ohio State Program in America. In 2018 he moved to the UK where he’s worked at JCB Golf and Country Club, Gleneagles and the Old Course at St Andrews. James is a graduate of the 2023 FTMI Programme and an R&A Scholar. He is currently studying a degree in Turfgrass Science at Myerscough College.  

 

Stefan Carter is the Sustainable Championship Agronomist at The R&A, having joined the organisation in April 2025. In this role, he works closely with golf clubs and championship venues to support sustainable course management practices and contribute to the successful delivery of championship golf. 
Stefan began his career in greenkeeping in 2009 at a local golf club in Leicester. Early in his career, he completed his Level 2 in Sports Turf Management and gained valuable experience across a variety of golf course environments. A pivotal moment came in 2013 when he was selected for The Open Championship Support Team through BIGGA, an experience that inspired his ambition to work at the highest level of the profession.
To further develop his expertise, Stefan volunteered at numerous prestigious events, including the BMW PGA Championship and R&A amateur championships, before joining The Wentworth Club in 2015. During his time at Wentworth, he was exposed to world-class standards in golf course management and embraced opportunities to broaden his skills through championship preparation, international volunteering, and course renovation projects, including work at Le Golf National ahead of the 2018 Ryder Cup. Stefan also gained his Level 3 in Sports Turf Management and reached the finals of TORO Student Greenkeeper of the year.
In 2017, Stefan completed an internship at Augusta National Golf Club, where he worked as part of the greenkeeping team for the Masters Tournament. This remains one of the highlights of his career and further strengthened his commitment to excellence in course management.
Alongside his practical experience, Stefan pursued higher education, earning both an FdSc in Sports Turf Science and Management and a BSc (Hons) in Sports Turf Science and Management from Myerscough College. He progressed through a series of leadership positions at Wentworth, including Senior Greenkeeper, Head Greenkeeper and Deputy Course Manager, ultimately leading teams and volunteers during multiple BMW PGA Championships.
Today, Stefan combines his championship golf experience, technical expertise, and passion for sustainable practices in his role with The R&A. He is committed to supporting the future of the game while inspiring and developing the next generation of turf management professionals.

Neil has been passionate about the sports turf industry since he began his career at the age of 16. With over 35 years of experience across sales, advisory, and agronomic roles, he combines practical know-how with in-depth technical expertise. For the past six years, Neil has been serving as Account Manager and Technical Support for Scotland at The Aquatrols Company, where he partners with sports turf professionals to deliver tailored, practical solutions that improve turf performance and sustainability. Known for his hands-on approach and deep industry insight, Neil is dedicated to helping golf courses and sports facilities achieve long-term success on and off the field.

Chris has been head mechanic and workshop manager for Leicester City Football Club since September 2017. He previously spent 12 years as head mechanic at The Belfry.  Prior to that, Chris worked at Ransomes and Toro dealerships and he began his career working at the local mower shop, meaning his entire working life has revolved around turf equipment. He also studied mechanics at Moreton Morrell College of Agriculture.

James has almost 23 years' experience in mechanics, 18 of which have been spent within the golf industry. An expert in maintaining turf equipment, James is currently workshop and equipment manager for Arora Group, based at the Buckinghamshire Golf Club. His remit is about to expand as he tales on a group role that will include potential Ryder Cup host Luton Hoo Golf & Country Club.

 

Andrew Lees is Global Segment Manager – Professional Robotics at Husqvarna, responsible for shaping category strategy and supporting professional customers. With strong experience in robotics product management and market development, he works closely with sales, marketing, associations and customers to deliver innovative solutions for the UK and international markets across multiple professional segments globally.

Erwan LeCocq is greenkeeping specialist at Husqvarna Europe, bringing hands-on greenkeeping experience gained from years working as a head greenkeeper across Europe. Having worked on golf courses, he understands day-to-day operational challenges and seasonal demands. He now supports course managers with practical guidance, training and equipment solutions that enhance turf quality, efficiency and sustainable maintenance practices.