The PGA of America has a new CEO.
On Wednesday, the organization announced that former health insurer Terry Clark will take over the position of CEO on March 2. Derek Sprague resigned on January 7 to spend more time with his family.
Clark has served as an independent director on the PGA of America board since 2024. He spent twenty years at United Health Group, where he rose to Chief Marketing Officer. He has also served on the boards of the YMCA and the Special Olympics.
“Golf is a game with a rare and lasting impact on individuals, families and communities, and the PGA of America sits at the center of that influence,” Clark said in a statement. “Our greatest strength is our PGA of America Golf Professionals – trusted leaders in their communities who introduce, teach and grow the game in every corner of the world. At an important time for golf, we have the right people, the right resources and a meaningful opportunity to lead with purpose.”
PGA of America Vice President Nathan Charnes, who will become president in November, said Clark has earned the trust of the board of directors with his long record of judgment and leadership.
“As an independent director, Terry has gained firsthand insight into our strategic priorities and the critical role PGA of America Golf Professionals plays at every level of the game,” said Charnes. “He has a proven ability to lead complex organizations with clarity and rigor, while fostering collaboration and accountability among diverse stakeholders. At a time when continuity, stability and long-term focus are essential, the board is confident that Terry is the right leader to lead the association forward and continue to advance the game in meaningful and sustainable ways.”
Clark’s appointment comes just months after the PGA of America was widely criticized for its handling of crowds and the environment at the 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black. The Bethpage crowd hurled a barrage of verbal abuse at the European players, with Rory McIlroy and his wife Erica taking the brunt. The episode was further exacerbated when PGA of America president Don Rea told the BBC that American players faced the same level of abuse at the 2023 Ryder Cup in Rome. Sprague contacted the McIlroys to personally apologize for the week of verbal abuse after the event ended.
The PGA of America will be back in the spotlight this May when the PGA Championship takes place at Aronimink outside Philadelphia. The KPMG Women’s PGA Championship will be held in Hazeltine in June.
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