Mark Woodward, CEO of the GCSAA, steps down effective immediately

Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) President James R. Fitzroy, CGCS, announced that Chief Executive Officer Mark Woodward, CGCS, has resigned, effective immediately, to pursue other career interests.

Woodward was appointed GCSAA chief executive in April 2008 and assumed those duties in July of that year. He came to GCSAA after serving as operations manager for the city of San Diego, including host of the 2008 U.S. Open at Torrey Pines Golf Course. He also served as GCSAA president in 2004.

“Mark is a talented individual who has made solid contributions to GCSAA,” Fitzroy said. “He has been a fine representative and a strong steward for the organization. We wish him well in his future endeavors.” Fitzroy noted Woodward has been instrumental in guiding GCSAA through one of the nation’s most severe economic downturns in years. His leadership also served to position GCSAA prominently for its research, programs and education regarding golf’s relationship with the environment.

Rhett Evans, GCSAA chief operating officer, has been named interim CEO while the organization’s board of directors conducts a nationwide search to determine Woodward’s successor. Prior to arriving at GCSAA in July 2009, Evans was director of the parks, recreation and commercial facilities division for the city of Mesa, Ariz., where he managed a staff of more than 700.

The search process to fill the chief executive position will involve the services of an executive search firm with the ultimate selection by the GCSAA Board of Directors. The process will begin immediately, although no timetable has been established to identify a replacement.

GCSAA is a leading golf organization and has as its focus golf course management. Since 1926, GCSAA has been the top professional association for the men and women who manage golf courses in the United States and worldwide. From its headquarters in Lawrence, Kan., the association provides education, information and representation to more than 20,000 members in more than 72 countries. GCSAA’s mission is to serve its members, advance their profession and enhance the enjoyment, growth and vitality of the game of golf. The association’s philanthropic organization, The Environmental Institute for Golf, works to strengthen the compatibility of golf with the natural environment through research grants, support for education programs and outreach efforts. Visit GCSAA at www.gcsaa.org.