Scottish Golf is delighted to announce the permanent appointment of Clare Queen (pictured left) as Performance Director, one of a trio of key roles confirmed by the new Chief Executive, Andrew McKinlay.
Clare has fulfilled the role in an interim capacity since the departure of Stuart Clayton, who left in April to work with David Leadbetter Golf Academies.
The former Ladies European Tour professional is now responsible for leading the development and implementation of training and competition programmes designed to prepare amateur players to make the transition into the professional ranks.
Clare worked with the Scottish Government-backed Active Schools programme in Clackmannanshire before taking up a Performance Co-ordinator role with the Scottish Ladies’ Golfing Association in April 2014, joining Scottish Golf after the amalgamation of SLGA and Scottish Golf Union.
Clare Queen said: “I am proud to be appointed Performance Director and regard it as a huge privilege to help the next generation of successful Scottish golfers through what I know from experience is a tricky transition phase from amateur through to professional.
“The interim role has given me a real insight into the opportunities and challenges facing golfers who aspire to reach the top. I look forward to putting the ideas I have into practice with the help of my colleagues at Scottish Golf and, fundamentally, with the support of clubs and the network of service providers, to ensure players have the best opportunity possible to fulfil their potential.
“What has become apparent in a short period of time is the need to bring clarity to the pathway that exists for golfers and to simplify it. We also need to encourage golfers to practice more effectively and prepare players better to compete on the international stage.
“For those who wish to turn professional It is not always about travelling the world and winning titles, it is about preparing people for what can be a lonely life on the road, a journey that comes with disappointments along the way. Providing support and helping to instil the resilience needed to overcome adversity and reach the top are priorities.
“It has been encouraging to see some success stories already, which will hopefully inspire others and working closer with those who have gone on to become tour professionals will only help those at various stages of the pathway.”
Gillian Paton has also been appointed Performance Manager on a full-time basis, responsible for the Performance Academy, Girls’ and Boys’ Squads and managing the Development Academy with Clare Queen.
The final appointment confirmed by McKinlay, who joined from the Scottish FA in May, was the promotion of Karin Sharp from Corporate Services Director to Chief Operating Officer.
Andrew McKinlay, Scottish Golf Chief Executive, said: “I am delighted to be able to confirm these posts and have been struck by the dedication and expertise shown by all three in my short time as Chief Executive.
“Clare has already made an impact in the interim role and I know how passionate she is about making the performance pathway the best it can be for aspiring professional golfers. I know she has been ably supported by Gillian and her appointment is a natural step in her development, too.
“Now that the posts have been made permanent, it will allow both to focus on talking Scottish Golf forward.
“I am also pleased to be able to confirm that Karin Sharp’s job title has been changed to Chief Operating Officer. It has been clear to me since my arrival that Karin is a pillar of this organisation and the new job title reflects her role within the organisation and importance to it.”
