-- MGA Photo
Norton, MA — Following a two-month search, the MGA has named Jesse Menachem as its new executive director.
Menachem, who previously served as the association's director of rules & competitions, becomes just the seventh executive director to hold that post in the MGA's 110-year history.
"There is no question that Jesse possesses the skills and passion to continue on what has been a history of strong leadership at the MGA," said Clarence Bennett, the MGA's president who served on the search committee. "We reviewed many applications, but we are confident that we found the best and right fit for this organization."
Menachem takes over for Joe Sprague, who stepped down earlier this summer in order to join the USGA's Regional Affairs Department. In addition to Sprague – who held that post for nearly six years – Menachem joins an impressive list of former MGA executive directors in Fred Corcoran (1927-36), John Corcoran (1937-45), Bill Corcoran (1946-69), Dick Haskell (1969-1998) and Tom Landry (1998-2007).
"I am honored and humbled by the opportunity," said Menachem. "I am excited about the challenges that lie ahead, but the MGA is fortunate to have the best staff and board leadership of any other state and regional golf association."
Menachem's journey to the executive director office is a true golf success story.
Originally from Framingham, he was a Francis Ouimet Scholar who was accepted to Indiana University. He received that distinguished honor – named after the renowned 1913 U.S. Open Champion – due to his exceptional service to golf, academic excellence, school, community, activities and character.
During the summers of 2005, 2006 and 2007, Menachem was hired as the MGA's USGA PJ Boatwright, Jr. Intern. His unique talent was immediately realized by the MGA staff as Menachem became the first intern to be hired for consecutive summer terms.
Upon his graduation from Indiana University, Menachem became a member of the full-time MGA staff where he has – over the years – grown through the MGA ranks. He has an advanced knowledge of the Rules of Golf and this past season was head of a department that secured, organized and oversaw the operations for 10 Championships, 40+ qualifying events, 16 Men's and Women's USGA Local/Sectional Qualifying events and three New England Golf Association Championships. He was also responsible for managing a corps of more than 100 volunteers from across the state.
"We have seen Jesse conduct himself in the utmost professional manner on the course, in the office and in the boardroom," said Bennett, who began his two-year service as MGA president earlier this month. "He will ensure the growth and prosperity of the MGA for years to come."
From Ouimet Scholar, to PJ Boatwright, Jr. Intern and now to MGA executive director… Menachem has indeed followed in the footsteps of the game's greatest and most respected figures.
"I am eternally indebted to the game for what it has given to me," said Menachem. "My goal as executive director is to continue the great traditions of the MGA and expand its reach through our many services including handicapping, course rating, championships, Member Days and The First Tee of Massachusetts."