Johor, Malaysia: Sean Kinsley has been appointed as Group Director of Agronomy across The Els Club Malaysia – Desaru Coast and Teluk Datai facilities.

The Els Club Malaysia is managed by Troon International, an Executive Member of the Asian Golf Industry Federation.

Kinsley has been part of the Troon family for the past 13 years, during which time he’s embraced international opportunities. Prior to his latest role in Malaysia, he worked in Australia, the United States, Russia, India and the United Arab Emirates.

Kinsley joins The Els Club Malaysia from Dubai where he was Cluster Director of Agronomy across Arabian Ranches Golf Club, Dubai Hills Golf Club, and Montgomerie Golf Club Dubai.

During his tenure, Dubai Hills Golf Club was awarded ‘World’s Best New Golf Course’ at the 2019 World Golf Awards, recognition of the high standards Kinsley upholds across course conditioning and presentation.

He said: “Having visited the location on more than one occasion, I am delighted to be joining The Els Club Malaysia team. The opportunity to be involved in the management of such a strong group of courses located in such a stunning setting is one that I am eagerly anticipating.

“Each of the three courses is distinct in terms of style and the role certainly promises to be one that will require a varied approach when it comes to the maintenance of each property.

“Being aware of the growing portfolio of the golf courses and the recent progress made by the agronomy team, I am very excited at the prospect of consolidating that momentum and continuing to drive and deliver further improvements in course conditioning and international recognition of each club over the years ahead.”

Managed by Troon under the Troon Golf brand and created by four-time Major champion and World Golf Hall of Famer Ernie Els, with the Valley Course being designed by Vijay Singh, the three golf courses across the Desaru Coast and Teluk Datai properties are of the highest standard.

With three clubhouses, each with their own F&B and Golf Shop outlets, as well as a dedicated team of hospitality professionals, guests are treated to five-star service from the moment they arrive to the moment they leave.

With easy accessibility via road, air and sea, both destinations are growing in popularity. The introduction of a series of luxury hotel brands is poised to further enhance the reputation of The Els Club Malaysia as a golfing getaway.

The announcement of Kinsley’s appointment comes a week after Steven Thielke was named as General Manager of The Els Club Desaru Coast.