FRISCO, Texas — The PGA of America has selected Terry Clark, an executive from UnitedHealth Group, as its new CEO, marking the second instance in its last three appointments where the organization has opted for a business leader who previously served on its board of directors.
Clark, who has held the position of chief marketing officer at UnitedHealth Group, has been an independent director on the PGA of America’s board since 2024. He succeeds Derek Sprague, a former PGA president who stepped down to dedicate more time to his family in upstate New York.
Clark assumes leadership during a period of significant turnover at the PGA of America, which comprises 30,000 golf professionals and oversees the PGA Championship for men, women, and seniors, as well as the Ryder Cup when hosted in the United States.
In addition to Sprague’s departure, four executives at the C-suite level have transitioned to new roles in the past year, including Jeff Price (chief commercial officer) and John Easterbrook (chief membership officer).
Seth Waugh, who previously served as CEO at Deutsche Bank Americas, was an independent director for the PGA before becoming its CEO in 2018, a role he held for six years. His leadership included relocating the headquarters from South Florida to a new site north of Dallas.
“Terry has gained the board’s confidence through years of disciplined leadership, sound judgment, and a profound respect for the PGA of America, our members, and our mission,” stated Nathan Charnes, the vice president poised to become the PGA’s next president in November.
“At a time when continuity, stability, and a long-term perspective are crucial, the board believes Terry is the ideal leader to steer the Association forward and continue to promote the game in meaningful and sustainable ways.”
Clark has also served as chief marketing and customer officer at Optum, a division of UnitedHealth Group. Optum is a significant sponsor of The Players Championship.
“My focus will be on providing clarity, enhancing our culture, and empowering our teams to support our members and PGA of America golf professionals at the highest level, while elevating our major championships and marquee events as defining stages for the game, our partners, and the communities we serve,” Clark remarked in a statement.
Kerry Haigh, the PGA’s chief competitions officer, will remain as interim CEO until Clark officially takes over in March.
