Major role for Ken Schofield

Mar 25 2011 by Gordon Bannerman, Perthshire Advertiser Friday

FORMER Big County bank manager and keen St Johnstone fan Ken Schofield has been spreading his wings.

The former European Tour executive director was this week appointed to the board of directors of the Asian Tour.

Executive Chairman Kyi Hla Han said the Auchterarder man’s vast experience and high standing in the world of golf will benefit the Asian Tour and provide further thrust for the next phase of growth and development.

The Asian Tour is primed for an expanded 2011 schedule with over $45 million in total prize money, driven by a new long-term production and distribution partnership with IMG Media.

Schofield retired as head of the European Tour in December 2004 after being at the helm for over 30 years. During his tenure, Schofield and his successor George O’Grady grew the Tour from prize money of less than £500,000 to £80 million.

Once the youngest bank manager in Scotland he has forged a reputation as one of world golf’s most respected executives.

He has also been instrumental in the growth of the Ryder Cup which is now one of the world’s greatest sporting spectacles and was one of the architects behind the establishment of European Tour Productions, the largest producer of golf programming in the world.

Schofield said: “The Asian Tour has grown tremendously over the years and I am excited to be given this opportunity to be a part of the team which will chart the Tour’s future and growth plans. The Asian Tour has established itself as a strong brand and with the success of its players both at home and abroad, the potential to grow is unlimited.

“I have long been aware of the enormous potential of golf in Asia and in recent years have enjoyed observing its ever more influential status on the global golfing map.

“I am delighted to be joining such a forward thinking and successful enterprise and hope that the knowledge I have gleaned from my years in golf will be of some benefit to the members. I look forward to being part of their next exciting stage of growth.”