The Golf Course Association Europe (GCAE) has appointed former Burhill Group CEO Colin Mayes as president for a two-year term, marking the next stage in the organisation’s growth and strengthening its representation of golf facility owners and operators across Europe.
GCAE represents the owners and operators responsible for the long-term investment, sustainability and management of golf facilities across Europe. As the industry continues to evolve, the association is further strengthening its voice within the wider game.
At a general members’ meeting, members unanimously appointed Mayes as president for a two-year term. Nathanaël Pietrzak-Swirc, CEO of UGOLF International, has been named Treasurer and President-elect, establishing a clear succession pathway for the organisation.
The leadership transition follows a period of significant development for GCAE. In recent years, the association has broadened its membership base, welcomed corporate members and strategic partners, and strengthened relationships across the golf industry. It has also increased collaboration with The R&A and expanded its role as a platform where owners, operators and industry leaders can meet, learn and work together.
After serving six years as president, Lars Havrevold will move into the role of honorary vice president.
Reflecting on his tenure, Havrevold said: “Leadership is about leaving an organisation stronger than you found it. Over the past six years we have modernised GCAE, broadened its reach and strengthened its position within European golf. I am proud of what the team and the board have built together. The foundation is strong, the direction is clear and this is the right moment for Colin to take the organisation into its next phase.”
The change in leadership comes as GCAE continues to expand its activities across Europe. In partnership with Players 1st and with support from The R&A, the association recently launched the European Golf Benchmark, providing golf facilities with reliable business performance data and industry insights.
Looking ahead, GCAE will host the European Golf Business Conference from 11–13 November 2026 in Vilamoura, Portugal, under the theme Fairways to the Future.
For incoming president Mayes, the priority is to build on the progress already made.
“GCAE has momentum and my role over the next two years is to build on that foundation. We want more owners and operators involved, stronger relationships across the industry and a louder collective voice for the businesses that deliver golf every day. With Nathanaël joining as President-elect, we have continuity, stability and a clear direction for the future,” he said.
GCAE CEO Renate Roeleveld said the transition reflects the organisation’s growing relevance within the golf sector.
“Owners and operators are the engine of our industry and they belong in the room where decisions are made. They make long-term decisions about investment, sustainability, employment and the golfer experience. They deserve a strong voice in the conversations around golf. That is why GCAE matters.
“I admire Lars for the leadership he has shown during this period of transformation and I am grateful that he has agreed to remain involved as honorary vice president. I am excited to continue building alongside Colin, Nathanaël and the rest of the board.”
