The golf courses manager at the Belfry Hotel & Resort, Jamie Wade, is busy readying the fairways and greens to welcome some of the world’s top players at this year’s British Masters  

BEEN THERE, DONE THAT

When I left school in early 2006, my only real passion was golf. That summer I worked at my local golf club, and I absolutely loved it. In October 2006, I was lucky enough to be offered a full-time job at the Belfry as a trainee greenkeeper and soon after, I became a qualified greenkeeper. In 2012, I left and travelled to Australia and New Zealand before returning to the Belfry in 2014. Over the next two years I was promoted through various positions before becoming golf courses manager. Throughout my career I have been lucky enough to travel across the world. This has included volunteering for world class events in France, America, Australia, and within the UK. In 2018, I volunteered at the Ryder cup in Paris to help with golf course set up.

IT’S WHAT I DO

I oversee a team of 45 which includes greenkeepers, mechanics, irrigation technicians, and gardeners. Day-to-day, I oversee the Belfry’s three golf courses, ensuring that we are providing a tournament standard course for all players. Our courses include the Brabazon and PGA National, which are recognised as world-class having hosted The Ryder Cup four times – more than any other venue in the world. We are also hosting this year’s Betfred British Masters for the third consecutive year.

WHAT I’D LIKE TO SEE

I have recently become a dad and want to be the best I can be for my son, raising him with good personal values. I’m really happy at the Belfry and love where I work. It’s my ambition though, to work overseas in a managerial role overseeing another world-class golf tournament while also continuing to inspire and lead the next generation of greenkeepers.

BIGGEST SUCCESS

One of my biggest successes was moving to Australia and New Zealand when I was 23 to pursue my greenkeeping career. It helped me grow as a person and taught me so many personal skills. Another success was becoming head greenkeeper at only 27 and overseeing three world-renowned golf courses here at the Belfry. Seven years into in my current position and I feel so fortunate that I am able to help assist with planning and preparation for the British Masters each year.

BIGGEST LESSON LEARNED

Never fail to try more! Early in my career I was very passionate and wanted to progress, but I didn’t have the confidence and I didn’t always ask the right questions. I was scared to try new things because I didn’t want to fail.  Looking back now, I feel I could have got more out of the early days in my career if I’d been more confident.

WHAT I LIKE ABOUT BRUM

The investment that Birmingham has received over recent years has been fantastic. The infrastructure and architecture have massively improved throughout the city.

DOWNTIME

I enjoy looking after my garden. Being a greenkeeper, I ensure my grass looks as pristine as it can be. I’m also a clean freak, so I’m always tidying something! I have a dog, named Cooper, who comes to work with me most days. I love going on long walks with him and finding new places to visit or see.