The PGA of America has a new CEO.
On Wednesday, the organization announced that former health insurance executive Terry Clark will take over as CEO on March 2. Derek Sprague resigned from the position on January 7 to spend more time with his family.
Clark has served as an independent director on the PGA of America’s board since 2024. He spent 20 years at United Health Group, where he rose to the role of Chief Marketing Officer. He has also served on boards for the YMCA and the Special Olympics.
“Golf is a game with a rare and enduring impact on individuals, families, and communities, and the PGA of America sits at the center of that influence,” Clark said in a statement. “Our greatest strength is our PGA of America Golf Professionals — trusted leaders in their communities who introduce, teach, and grow the game in every corner of the world. At an important moment for golf, we have the right people, the right assets, and a meaningful opportunity to lead with purpose.”
PGA of America vice president Nathan Charnes, who will become president in November, said that Clark earned the board’s trust with his long track record of judgment and leadership.
“As an independent director, Terry has developed a first-hand understanding of our strategic priorities and the critical role PGA of America Golf Professionals play at every level of the game,” Charnes said. “He brings a proven ability to lead complex organizations with clarity and rigor, while fostering collaboration and accountability across diverse stakeholders. At a time when continuity, stability, and long-term focus are essential, the Board is confident Terry is the right leader to guide the Association forward and continue advancing the game in meaningful and sustainable ways.”
Clark’s appointment comes just months after the PGA of America faced widespread criticism for its handling of the crowds and environment at the 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black. The Bethpage crowds hurled a torrent of verbal abuse at European players, with Rory McIlroy and his wife, Erica, getting the brunt of it. The episode was compounded when PGA of America president Don Rea told the BBC that American players faced the same level of abuse during the 2023 Ryder Cup in Rome. Sprague reached out to the McIlroys to personally apologize for the week of verbal abuse after the event concluded.
The PGA of America will be under the spotlight again in May when the PGA Championship takes place at Aronimink outside of Philadelphia. The KPMG Women’s PGA Championship will be contested in June at Hazeltine.
