ASIA: Sime Darby searching for new TPC KL boss after Thielke’s departure

SIME Darby Property is in the throes of searching for a new chief executive officer for their Leisure and Hospitality segment.

This comes in the wake of Steven Thielke’s departure. Friday is the South African’s last working day, his contract has come to an end.

A company spokesperson said: “We thank Steven for his contribution and wish him all the best in his next endeavour.”

The spokesperson added that the company “is undergoing a selection process for the right candidate to lead our Leisure and Hospitality segment.

“We have in place a robust governance process that covers the selection of key executives. All appointments to key positions will be made after a thorough selection process, which includes deliberation and endorsement followed by the Board approval.”

Contrary to some suggestions within the golf industry, no decision has been taken to renew the club’s TPC (Tour Players Club) partnership with the US PGA Tour.

The spokesperson said the licensing rights as South-East Asia’s first golf facility to join the PGA Tour’s TPC network was for five years (from 2016) and that any change in direction would “only be made after a thorough assessment and evaluation with utmost regards given to the interest of our stakeholders, especially the club members”.

Thielke, under whose jurisdiction the golf club falls, told TeeUp this week that he was grateful for the support he received during his tenure at the club and proud of some of the landmarks achieved in that time.

“It’s been a great journey,” he said. “My family and I look back fondly at the time spent here. The warmth and friendliness of the people will stay with us forever.”

Under his watch, the club was re-branded TPC Kuala Lumpur, in the main due to them hosting the CIMB Classic – a regular stop on the PGA Tour until 2018. The club was also the venue of the Sime Darby LPGA Malaysia and the Maybank Malaysian Open, co-sanctioned by the Asian and European Tours.

TPC KL also hosted Women’s Tennis Associations (WTA), one of which was won by Australia’s Ashleigh Barty, who went on to become the world No. 1.

There has been talking in the industry that a senior manager within the Leisure and Hospitality segment has been touted to replace Thielke and that when the TPC contract expires next year, it won’t be renewed.

SOURCE: The Star