Golf Ontario

Golf Ontario Announces Ryan Finn as Chief Sport Officer

Following a comprehensive recruitment process, Golf Ontario is pleased to announce the hiring of Ryan Finn as the association’s Chief Sport Officer.

Finn’s career in golf spans over twenty-five years, and while originally from Milton, Ontario, it was in the state of Texas where he grew to become one of the most respected leaders in the golf industry in the US. With experience as a Tournament Director across golf operations and ultimately as Managing Director of Championships, Ryan is positioned to leverage his deep skill set at an essential time for Golf Ontario.

His responsibilities as Chief Sport Officer will include overseeing, managing and strategically developing critical functional areas, including membership focusing on facility relationships; junior performance and amateur competitions; grassroots and participation programs; and core member services, including Handicapping and Course Rating. 

“Ryan brings a depth of leadership and industry experience. We are thrilled to have him join our team to elevate our participation, performance and membership activities,” said Golf Ontario CEO Kyle McFarlane. “He is a seasoned leader and passionate advocate for golf who will bring tremendous energy and enthusiasm to improving the golfer, facility and athlete experience here in Ontario.”

The opportunity to join Golf Ontario and champion the growth of golf was an opportunity Finn could not resist.

“Golf has had a tremendous impact on every part of my life in a positive way, and I am truly elated to be joining such a passionate team that is committed to connecting people to positive and memorable golf experiences. It is an exciting time for golf, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to play a role in elevating Golf Ontario and golf in Ontario.” 

Before embarking on his professional pathway, Ryan was an NCAA golfer achieving PSAC All-Conference honours while completing his BA in Sports Management at Slippery Rock University, PA. He holds several certificates and designations, including USGA/PGA Rules of Golf (highest level accreditation) and USGA/PGA Tournament Administration. He has acted as Rules Chairman at the Spirit International Amateur Championship and officiated at events, including the; U.S. Senior Open, U.S. Amateur, U.S. Mid-Amateur and more.

Finn is set to join Golf Ontario in his official capacity, effective May 10th

About Golf Ontario

Golf Ontario is Ontario’s Provincial Sport Organization focused on enhancing participation, elevating performance, and supporting the passion of golfers in Ontario. With over 100,000 individual members and 500 member clubs, Golf Ontario is one of the most significant golf associations in the world. From rating courses and keeping the integral rules of the game intact to growing the game at the grassroots level and hosting the best amateur tournaments in Canada, Golf Ontario is a passionate group dedicated to Shaping Lives Through Golf.

For more information, please contact:

Nick Taylor, Chief Marketing & Development Officer, Golf Ontario,

NTaylor@gao.ca