Rugby, England: Bernhard and Company, an industry leader in grinding solutions and turf care technology, has appointed Jason Connaughton as Territory Manager for Turf Technologies in what is a new role for the business.

Connaughton has an extensive career in golf turf, having started out as a greenkeeper in Ireland, then spending a year working at the Australian Club in Sydney.

He eventually moved to the United Kingdom, becoming a qualified mechanic and Course Manager at Yeovil Golf Club in Somerset, his most recent position before joining Bernhard and Company.

His practical experience feeds directly into Bernhard’s strategy as a pioneer of data-driven technology solutions.

Connaughton said: “It’s really exciting to be part of the Bernhard and Company team. The turf care industry is moving so rapidly towards data collection – it’s become such a powerful tool.

“With the products and technology that we are now distributing and selling, we can help turf managers both collect important data and understand how to use it to make smart decisions and operate in the most efficient way possible.”

Connaughton’s role as Territory Manager for Turf Technologies will see him overseeing the array of Bernhard solutions, and working with companies such as Maya Global, which is pioneering the use of artificial intelligence for sustainable land management.

Bernhard’s research also shows that 75% of turf grass problems occur beneath the surface, so understanding how to better manage those is crucial to turf management.

Connaughton cited Bernhard’s industry leading reputation as a vital factor in his transition to his new role, alongside his positive experience as a long-time customer of Bernhard in his previous roles.

He said: “They are a great company with a solid reputation. You always want to work for a good business, and I’ve known them for years as industry leaders. Joining Bernhard felt like a natural progression for me.

“I’ve used Bernhard and Company equipment right from the beginning of my career. They are synonymous with excellent turf health. The turf technologies that they have more recently added to the offering are an integral part of modern turf management.”

*Bernhard and Company is a Full Business Member of the Asian Golf Industry Federation.