BIGGA and Jacobsen announce FTMI class of 2026

The British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA) and Jacobsen have announced the delegates for the 2026 Future Turf Managers Initiative (FTMI).

Each year, 15 up-and-coming BIGGA members are chosen to participate in the training programme credited with developing some of the most influential course managers and head greenkeepers.

First hosted in 2013 as a two-day education event, FTMI has since expanded around the world, with similar schemes now operating in Spain, Portugal, Australia and New Zealand.

Deb Burnett, BIGGA's Head of Professional Development, underlined the quality of this year's cohort, who hail from clubs across the UK and represent a broad range of roles within the greenkeeping profession.

"FTMI continues to attract outstanding applications from ambitious BIGGA members who are already making a real impact at their clubs and within their regions," she said.

"The class of 2026 reflects the strength and depth of talent coming through the industry, and we are excited to support them as they build the skills, confidence and networks that will help them take the next step in their careers."

“FTMI is a cornerstone of Jacobsen’s commitment to building a bright future for the sport of golf and the greater golf industry,” said Barry McTavish, Vice President and General Manager for Ransomes Jacobsen Ltd.

“Alongside BIGGA, we are identifying and developing the next generation of leaders, to better equip and prepare them to manage our industry’s critical assets – our golf courses – responsibly, sustainably, and in a manner that supports the growth of our sport,” McTavish said.

The initiative has benefited over 200 BIGGA members, with many citing their FTMI experience as key to their development. Jethro Wilson, senior greenkeeper at Loch Lomond, is excited to join such esteemed company.

"Being selected for FTMI means a great deal to me," he said. "Developing as a turf manager is something I'm passionate about, and this is a fantastic opportunity to learn from some of the best people in the industry while building relationships with like-minded professionals. I'm excited to make the most of every experience over the next year."

The programme has been designed to provide practical tools and guidance to help candidates pursue their career aspirations. Working with professional trainers, mentors, Jacobsen and BIGGA staff, graduates gain a clear understanding of what the future holds and a realistic overview of the expectations that come with the role of manager.

Toby Smith, deputy course manager at Redlibbets, said: "When I found out I had been selected for FTMI I was very proud and excited. It was something that was recommended to me and I knew right away that it was a brilliant initiative and I definitely wanted to apply.

"I'm thrilled to have been selected and we have some great mentors. I'm really looking forward to working with everyone and pushing towards where I want to be, and making new friends and connections along the way."

FTMI begins at Ransomes Jacobsen's headquarters in Ipswich and is followed by a series of online education sessions before culminating in two days of education at BTME in January.

Candidates are selected based upon an anonymous judging criterion, with the panel gaining an insight into the achievements of each application, who must be educationally active on a national and regional level.

FTMI class of 2026

Ruben Aitchison, deputy head greenkeeper, Tain Golf Club

Matthew Cox, deputy course manager, Whitecraigs Golf Club

Jonathan Dykes, assistant greenkeeper, Harleyford Golf Club

Harry Glover, first assistant greenkeeper, Lee Park Golf Club

Oliver Hopkin, first assistant, Hollinwell

Ruaridh Marshall, assistant greenkeeper, Sunningdale Golf Club

Laurie Owen, course supervisor/first assistant, Gog Magog Golf Club

Harvey Sims, first assistant, Hayling Golf Club

Gregory Smith, first assistant, The Berkshire Golf Club

Toby Smith, deputy course manager, Redlibbets Golf Club

Tommy Spender, greenkeeper, Highwoods Golf Club

Harlie Stokes, assistant greenkeeper/irrigation technician, Sandiway Golf Club

Bradley Taylor, first assistant, Beau Desert Golf Club

Jethro Wilson, senior greenkeeper, Loch Lomond Golf Club

Dominic Wright, spray technician/senior greenkeeper, Fulford Golf Club