The news that Seth Waugh, the CEO of the PGA of America, was quitting shocked the fans. Waugh has stated that, while he will still serve as a senior advisor for the series, June 30 will mark his last day of employment as CEO.
The news that Seth Waugh, the CEO of the PGA of America, was quitting shocked the fans. Waugh has stated that, while he will still serve as a senior advisor for the series, June 30 will mark his last day of employment as CEO.
August 2018 saw Seth Waugh take over as CEO following three years as an independent director. On its X (previously Twitter) account, NUCLR Golf announced the news of his resignation, saying, “JUST IN: PGA of America CEO Seth Waugh is OUT as leader of the governing body, effective June 30, electing not to return.”
Supporters were quick to weigh in on Waugh’s resignation in the comments section. While some were taken aback by the announcement, others voiced worries for the PGA’s future.
“I’m shocked, but I hope he does well,” a fan commented.
Another fan said, “The PGA is collapsing in every way.”
After the CEO’s departure, a fan proposed that the PGA Tour invest in and purchase the Ryder Cup from the PGA of America. Notably, the Women’s PGA Championship, the PGA Championship, and the Ryder Cup are among the important events that the PGA of America hosts.
“Does the PGA Tour have a good chance to step in now and “buy” the Ryder Cup from the PGA?” the fan questioned in his post.
One fan wrote, “Class guy.. great member, back in the day (90’s).”
“We appreciate Seth’s leadership.”
- President of the PGA of America on Seth Waugh’s resignation
The PGA of America President John Lindert thought back on the legacy of Seth Waugh and his significant contributions to the circuit throughout the years. The circuit is looking forward to working with Waugh as an advisor, he said, thanking him for his leadership.
Regarding Waugh, Lindert stated (via Golf Week): “We are appreciative of Seth’s leadership and everything he achieved for our members, our game, the industry, and our people on behalf of the over 30,000 PGA of America golf professionals. He was always a great partner and expertly guided us through extremely difficult times. We are lucky to have his constant assistance and guidance available to us in the future.
Kerry Haigh will act as the organization’s CEO in the interim while the president looks for Seth Waugh’s replacement. Waugh will carry on his journey with the PGA of America in a new capacity after contributing significantly for almost nine years. As CEO, he assisted the company in obtaining an 11-year contract with ESPN and CBS. In addition, he was instrumental in forging alliances with T-Mobile and Rolex as well as founding the $100 million PGA REACH Foundation.
