This post was originally published on this site.
Richard Holland has been appointed St Andrews Link Trust chief executive
Former Cardiff Rugby chief executive Richard Holland has landed a new job with St Andrews Link Trust.
Holland will become the chief executive for the trust, which operates the famous Old Course in Scotland, from the start of September – having left Welsh rugby after the Arms Park side were taken over by the Welsh Rugby Union last year.
Holland will succeed Neil Coulson following his departure earlier this year.
His role will include oversight of an organisation with more than 450 staff and the responsibility for managing eight courses at the Home of Golf, including the historic Old Course where golf has been played for more than 600 years.
Holland spent 14 years at the Arms Park, with Cardiff being temporarily placed into administration by their directors in April 2025 before being acquired by the WRU.
The governing body still continues to own the capital club.
JOIN OUR WALES RUGBY FACEBOOK PAGE Latest news, analysis and much more
Prior to working at Cardiff, Holland has held a number of leadership roles – including executive director of Chepstow and Hereford racecourses, and vice-president of corporate relations and sales at the Celtic Manor in Wales.
“I’m honoured to be appointed to lead the Home of Golf into its next chapter,” said Holland.
“St Andrews Links has an extraordinary history, and I’m excited to play a part in ensuring we continue to respect what has gone before, while shaping an exciting future as golf grows in popularity and inspires people around the world, and right here in St Andrews.
“My first few weeks will be spent meeting and listening to people in the town and beyond as my family and I settle into our new home.
“I’m looking forward to getting to know the team at the Trust, our partners and the local community as we continue to celebrate everything that makes the Home of Golf unique, create accessible pathways into the sport and deliver world-class experiences ensuring that we continue to work constructively to support golf locally, around Fife and further afield.”
The Old Course is set to host the 155th Open next year, marking a record 31st time the famous course will host the tournament.
“We are delighted to have appointed Richard Holland,” said Sandra Tuddenham, chair of trustees at St Andrews Links Trust. “He is a highly experienced chief executive with a long track record of leading heritage-rich, publicly scrutinised sporting and hospitality organisations.
“His appointment comes at an exciting time for St Andrews Links as preparations to host The 155th Open next year gather pace, and we are confident that he will build on the Trust’s proud legacy while shaping a sustainable future for the Home of Golf.”
Follow all of our channels to ensure you stay up to date with the latest Welsh rugby news. Sign up to our free daily newsletter here and our WhatsApp channel here for all the breaking news.
