Richard Holland, the former chief executive of Cardiff Rugby, has been named the new chief executive of St Andrews Links Trust, the organisation that operates the world-famous Old Course in Scotland. He will take up the role at the start of September, succeeding Neil Coulson, who departed earlier this year.
New role at the Home of Golf
Holland will lead an organisation with more than 450 staff and oversee the management of eight courses at the Home of Golf, including the historic Old Course, where golf has been played for more than 600 years. His appointment comes as the Old Course prepares to host the 155th Open next year, which will mark a record 31st time the venue has staged the major championship.
In his new position, Holland will be responsible for maintaining the trust's heritage while also shaping its future. The trust manages public golf facilities in St Andrews, including the Old Course, and is a key player in promoting golf locally and internationally.
Background in Welsh rugby and sports leadership
Holland spent 14 years at Cardiff Rugby, formerly known as Cardiff Blues, before leaving after the club was taken over by the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU). In April 2025, Cardiff was temporarily placed into administration by its directors, and the WRU subsequently acquired the club. The governing body continues to own the capital club.
Before his time at Cardiff, Holland held several leadership roles in the sports and hospitality sectors. He served as executive director of Chepstow and Hereford racecourses and was vice-president of corporate relations and sales at the Celtic Manor Resort in Wales, which hosted the 2010 Ryder Cup.
Holland's vision for St Andrews
Speaking about his appointment, Holland expressed his enthusiasm for the new challenge. "I'm honoured to be appointed to lead the Home of Golf into its next chapter," he said. "St Andrews Links has an extraordinary history, and I'm excited to play a part in ensuring we continue to respect what has gone before, while shaping an exciting future as golf grows in popularity and inspires people around the world, and right here in St Andrews."
He added: "My first few weeks will be spent meeting and listening to people in the town and beyond as my family and I settle into our new home. I'm looking forward to getting to know the team at the Trust, our partners and the local community as we continue to celebrate everything that makes the Home of Golf unique, create accessible pathways into the sport and deliver world-class experiences ensuring that we continue to work constructively to support golf locally, around Fife and further afield."
Trust chair praises appointment
Sandra Tuddenham, chair of trustees at St Andrews Links Trust, welcomed Holland's arrival. "We are delighted to have appointed Richard Holland," she said. "He is a highly experienced chief executive with a long track record of leading heritage-rich, publicly scrutinised sporting and hospitality organisations."
Tuddenham added: "His appointment comes at an exciting time for St Andrews Links as preparations to host The 155th Open next year gather pace, and we are confident that he will build on the Trust's proud legacy while shaping a sustainable future for the Home of Golf."
Impact on golf and local community
Holland's appointment is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the trust, which is a major employer in the St Andrews area. With the 155th Open on the horizon, his leadership will be crucial in ensuring the event runs smoothly and that the trust continues to provide accessible golfing opportunities for all.
The Old Course is one of the most iconic venues in golf, attracting players and visitors from around the world. Holland's experience in managing high-profile sporting venues, including racecourses and a Ryder Cup host resort, will be valuable in his new role.
As he prepares to take up his post, Holland will be focusing on building relationships with staff, partners, and the local community. His commitment to listening and learning will be key as he navigates the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for the Home of Golf.
