The Belfry appoints new director of golf

The Belfry, near Birmingham, one of the world’s most renowned golf resorts and the only four-time host of the Ryder Cup matches, has appointed industry expert Ian Knox as its new Director of Golf.

Knox has over twenty years of experience in the hotel and leisure industry and will prove invaluable in overseeing The Belfry’s £30 million refurbishment, which when completed will mark the beginning of an exciting new era for the world-famous resort.

“I am thrilled to have this opportunity; The Belfry is one of the most iconic resorts in golf,” commented Knox.

“I’m sure the refurbishment will enhance the fantastic guest experiences that are available here for both golfers and non-golfers. The Belfry has a rich heritage as a decorated Ryder Cup venue and we have a fantastic opportunity to build on the existing foundations and establish the resort as one of Europe’s premium golf destinations.”

Knox has a distinguished background, having worked at a number of leading international golf resorts, including St. Andrews Bay Golf Resort & Spa, where he held several senior management roles in its award-winning golf division.

In his last role, also as Director of Golf, Knox was responsible for managing the entire golf division and led his team to industry awards. His notable leadership characteristics are underpinned by his sales background, excellent communication skills, analytical experience and dynamic personality.  

“With The Belfry’s prominent position in the game of golf, this role garnered a lot of interest when it became available. Ian fits the mould perfectly with his obvious industry experience and infectious enthusiasm for the future success of the resort.

“We’re delighted to have him on board and I have every confidence in his ability to lead The Belfry in this exciting new era and build on its existing legacy, with his operational strength, eye for detail and dedication to service excellence,” noted Daniel Hodson, Director of Golf, De Vere.

“We will work together, along with Lynn Hood, The Belfry’s new Managing Director, to ensure the investments made into improving the resort are a success and strengthen its leading position in the golf market.

Set in over 500 acres of stunning countryside in the heart of England, The Belfry features an expansive hotel with an array of leisure facilities, including relaxation spa, restaurants and bars.

It’s two championship golf courses, The PGA National – England’s only PGA-branded golf course, and The Brabazon – the world’s only four-time host of The Ryder Cup having held the matches in 1985, 1989, 1993 and 2002, headline the impressive golf offering.

Additionally, The Belfry is home to the PGA National Golf Academy and a further 18-hole course, The Derby. Both the PGA National and Derby layouts belong to 2-FORE!-1 and offer half-price green fees with a 2-FORE!-1 voucher.

The resort is the perfect retreat for golf and leisure breaks, which will only be improved by the planned renovations. Given the unique and expansive nature of The Belfry, these works will be phased across the year to ensure that the club will remain open during the refurbishment.