The leader in you: Finding your authentic style

Leadership in the golf industry isn’t one‑size‑fits‑all. In this reflective and practical class, Brent and Justin will share tools and strategies to help turf professionals discover and develop their own authentic leadership style, one that aligns with who they are, not who they think they should be.

Through personal stories, interactive exercises, and proven leadership frameworks, this class explores the role of emotional intelligence, team communication, and culture‑building in effective leadership. Attendees will leave with a clearer sense of their own leadership identity and how to apply it day‑to‑day in team development, accountability, and decision‑making.

Designed for greenkeepers, supervisors, and managers looking to grow in confidence and clarity, this class invites attendees to lead with purpose, authenticity, and impact.

• Understand the value of authentic leadership in modern greenkeeping
• Identify your natural leadership style and emotional strengths
• Learn how to communicate, coach, and build trust with your team
• Explore ways to align leadership with your club’s culture and values
• Create a personal roadmap for continuous leadership development

Presented by:

Brent Downs MG CGCS

Director of Agronomy Otter Creek Golf Course/Harrison Lake Country Club

Brent Downs is the Director of Agronomy at Harrison Lake Country Club and Otter Creek Golf Course in the United States. His career has taken him around the world, with internships in Scotland and Australia, and includes key agronomy roles at prestigious clubs such as Augusta National, Valhalla, and the Philadelphia Cricket Club. A superintendent and director for over a decade, Brent is passionate about the ongoing growth of the profession—particularly through education and technology. He holds memberships and certifications through Toastmasters International and Dale Carnegie Training and is a proud graduate of Purdue University. Brent earned his Certified Golf Course Superintendent status in 2021 and achieved the coveted Master Greenkeeper distinction in 2024. Today, he is committed to helping others grow through peer learning, leadership development, and innovation in the turf industry.

Justin Sims

Director of Grounds and Facilities The Alotian Club

Justin Sims is the Director of Grounds and Facilities at the Alotian Club in Roland, Arkansas, and a 25-year veteran of the turfgrass industry. His career includes leadership roles at some of the world’s most renowned clubs, including Augusta National, Victoria National, and the Olympic Club, where he trained under legendary superintendents Pat Finlen and Brad Owen. A sought-after instructor, Justin has taught internationally on both the agronomic principles of Zoysiagrass and leadership and team development, with sessions in Asia, Germany, and Portugal. He was a finalist for the 2020 TurfNet Superintendent of the Year and is a frequent podcast guest known for his insights on leadership. When not at work, Justin enjoys time with his wife, Rebecca, and their three sons.