The PGA of America Just Chose a New CEO, And It Says a Lot About Where the Game Is Headed

The PGA of America has named Terry Clark its new Chief Executive Officer, a move that feels both refreshingly grounded and quietly strategic. Clark steps into the role at a time when golf is trying to balance tradition with growth, inclusivity with excellence, with a membership needs on an increasingly global reach.

Clark's background isn't flashy, but he's been around golf when and where it matters. He joins the PGA of America from UnitedHealth Group, where he served as Chief Marketing Officer, bringing with him years of experience in operations, partnerships and organizational leadership.

At UnitedHealth Group’s Optum, Clark led partnership programs tied to The PLAYERS Championship, working across broadcast initiatives and player sponsorship relationships.

Clark also has served as an independent director on the PGA of America Board since 2024, giving him a firsthand understanding of the organization he’ll now lead.

It's those quiet but essential parts of making any large institution work, especially one that needs a bit of stability after a period of leadership transition.

That transition included Derek Sprague’s decision to step down to focus on family, a moment that resonated across the golf community by underscoring that even at the highest levels of the sport, life exists beyond the ropes.

In a year where golf conversations have been dominated by executive reshuffling—from the PGA TOUR's Brian Rolapp ending up in pro sports most unexpected lanes to strategic brand-building hires like Chad Coleman's appointment as LPGA CMO—Clark’s appointment feels like a deliberate pivot toward a more human, service-oriented leadership style.

“Golf is a game with a rare and enduring impact on individuals, families, and communities, and the PGA of America sits at the center of that influence,” Clark said in a statement. “Our greatest strength is our PGA of America Golf Professionals - trusted leaders in their communities who introduce, teach, and grow the game in every corner of the world. At an important moment for golf, we have the right people, the right assets, and a meaningful opportunity to lead with purpose.

Kerry Haigh, the PGA of America’s chief competitions officer, will continue to serve as interim CEO until Clark officially assumes the role in March.