Candi Watkins has joined Ponteland Golf Club as the club’s general manager, and has been shortlisted for a national award.
Candi – who moved to the Northumberland club this summer from her role as general manager at Sharpley, having previously been assistant manager at City of Newcastle and Ryton golf clubs – has been shortlisted for the Newcomer of the Year at the 2025 Golf Club Managers’ Association Awards. The shortlist also includes City of Newcastle’s Fern Snailham as well as Heather Moran from La Moye Golf Club.
“It’s amazing to have been nominated by my peers, and then shortlisted as one of just three finalists, for the GCMA Newcomer of the Year award,” said Candi, who recently became a GCMA accredited manager.
“I’ve really enjoyed my first few months at Ponteland – the team and members have been so welcoming. I loved my time at Sharpley, my first role as a general manager, and I’m proud of what we achieved in a relatively short period of time. I’m sure that success will continue in the years ahead.
“Ponteland is a successful and aspirational golf club, and I’m excited to help develop the membership experience and the commercial aspects of the club alongside the passionate committee as we look forward to the club’s centenary in 2027. The club has also welcomed a new head chef to the team this summer, and will welcome its new head professional, Chris McDonnell, in October as we say a very fond farewell to Alan Robson-Crosby after an incredibly long and successful tenure at the club.
“Working alongside the team and committee, we have a lot to look forward to, and I’m excited about what’s in store in 2026 and beyond,” added Candi – who built her career in business development before moving into golf club management.
The 2025 GCMA Award winners will be announced as part of the annual GCMA Conference & Exhibition in November.
