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Phillips Appointed CEO of Ladies European Tour

10 January, 2026

The Ladies European Tour (LET) has officially entered a new era with the appointment of Tom Phillips as its Chief Executive Officer, effective April 6, 2026.

Phillips, a seasoned executive with over 25 years of leadership in the global golf and leisure sectors, will succeed Alexandra Armas, who stepped down in October 2025. His appointment comes at a pivotal moment for the LET as it seeks to capitalize on record-breaking commercial growth and an expanding international footprint.

A Proven Track Record of Global Growth

Phillips joins the LET from the European Tour Group, where he has served as the Director of Middle East for the DP World Tour since 2019. Based in the United Arab Emirates, he led a 30-person team and was instrumental in the region's rapid ascent as a global golf powerhouse.

During his tenure, Phillips oversaw:

  • Expansion of the DP World Tour: Growing the Middle East schedule to six events, including three prestigious Rolex Series tournaments.
  • Commercial Innovation: Playing a key role in the landmark title partnership with DP World.
  • Prize Fund Growth: Managing events with combined prize money exceeding $35 million.
  • Strategic Partnerships: Strengthening ties with the Emirates Golf Federation and launching initiatives like the HotelPlanner Tour to support emerging talent.

Leadership Voices

The appointment has been met with high praise from the governing bodies of women’s professional golf.

"Tom is a highly respected leader with deep international experience and a strong track record of delivering sustainable growth," said Marta Figueras Dotti, Chair of the LET Ltd. Board. "His commercial expertise and collaborative approach make him the right person to lead the LET as we continue to build momentum for our players."

Liz Moore, Chair of the LPGA-LET Joint Venture Board, emphasized the strategic importance of the hire: "His appointment reflects the Tour’s long-term vision to further strengthen the women’s golf ecosystem worldwide. He has consistently demonstrated the ability to build strong teams and partnerships."

Deep Roots in Golf Development

Before his success in the Middle East, Phillips spent nearly 15 years working alongside six-time Major champion Sir Nick Faldo. As CEO of the Faldo Series, he grew the non-profit program from a local UK initiative to a global powerhouse featuring 40 tournaments across 30 countries.

His extensive resume also includes:

  • CEO of the Hong Kong Golf Association, where he managed the prestigious Hong Kong Open.
  • Senior Business Development at Mission Hills (China), where he negotiated strategic partnerships with global brands including FC Barcelona, the NBA, and the PGA of America.

Looking Ahead

Phillips, an Englishman who has lived and worked in Asia and the Middle East since 2005, will return to the UK to assume his new role this spring.

"The Ladies European Tour has a proud history and an exciting future," Phillips stated. "I’m honoured to take on this role and look forward to working with the board, the team, and the players to continue expanding the Tour's global reach and creating even more opportunities for women in the game."

The LET’s 2026 season is already underway, highlighted by the upcoming $5 million PIF Saudi Ladies International in February, setting a high-stakes stage for Phillips' arrival in April.

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