National Golf Foundation appointed Greg Nathan, who assumed the role of president earlier this year, as CEO. Joe Beditz, the current CEO, will transition to executive chairman. The NGF Board approved the changes to take effect on January 1, 2024.
“Joe has the longest leadership tenure in the organization’s history and has earned the respect of the dozens of industry leaders who have over the years served beside him on the NGF board of directors,” NGF Chairman, Ping President and CEO John Solheim said. “We are very glad he’ll continue to work closely with the board and Greg on our strategic plans and programs at NGF.”
As CEO, Nathan will be responsible for the overall management of the golf trade organization. Beditz has held the role of president and CEO since 1989.
“After 35 years as CEO and 40 years in all with NGF, I thought it would be a good time to pass the baton and step away from the day-to-day operations while continuing to help the organization transition to the next generation of leadership,” Beditz said. “I am very proud and confident in the team at NGF, and Greg is well prepared to take on his new responsibilities.”
Nathan joined the Foundation in 2007 as vice president following seven years with Golf Magazine/Golf.com, preceded by various roles in the New York advertising business. After serving as chief business officer in recent years, he was promoted to president and chief operating officer in June.
“I couldn’t be more excited about the opportunity to build on NGF’s legacy of leadership,” Nathan said. “Joe has been a fantastic steward of the company, and I’m grateful for his mentorship. Our team is dedicated to enhancing NGF’s capabilities to help the industry and the companies that operate in this amazing business.”
During his 17-year tenure at NGF, Nathan “has worked with virtually every type of golf business, helping with strategies supported by data, deep category knowledge and his broad network,” reported the NGF.
In addition to overseeing the Foundation’s direct-to-consumer and business-to-facility products and services, Nathan recently led the creation of NGF’s digital marketing agency to further benefit the organization’s members and clients.
