The Els Club Malaysia hires new leadership on, off course

The Els Club Malaysia has two new senior appointments. The championship venue, managed by Troon International, recently named Sean Kinsley as group director of agronomy across The Els Club Malaysia, Desaru Coast and Teluk Datai facilities, and Steven Thielke as general manager of The Els Club Desaru Coast.

Kinsley and Thielke replace long-term Troon veterans Terrance Mohamed and Stephen Havrilla, who moved onto new opportunities in Southeast Asia and the United States, respectively.

Kinsley has been a part of the Troon family for the past 13 years. Prior to his new role in Malaysia, he previously worked in Australia, the United State, Russia, India and the United Arab Emirates.

He joins The Els Club Malaysia from Dubai, where he was cluster director of agronomy across Arabian Ranches Golf Club, Dubai Hills Golf Club and Montgomerie Golf Club Dubai. During his tenure, Dubai Hills Golf Club was awarded World’s Best New Golf Course at the 2019 World Golf Awards.

“The opportunity to be involved in the management of such a strong group of courses located in such a stunning setting is one that I am eagerly anticipating,” Kinsley said. “Each of the three courses is distinct in terms of style and the role certainly promises to be one that will require a varied approach when it comes to the maintenance of each property.

“Being aware of the growing portfolio of the golf courses and the recent progress made by the agronomy team, I am very excited at the prospect of consolidating that momentum and continuing to drive and deliver further improvements in course conditioning and international recognition of each club over the years ahead.”

Thielke joins The Els Club Malaysia and Troon International with more than 30 years of golf and hospitality industry experience. He worked the last eight years as CEO of TPC Kuala Lumpur.

“It’s a true privilege to be associated with fellow countryman Ernie Els’ brand and to be part of the Troon International family,” Thielke said. “The natural beauty, wildlife and high-quality of golf on offer at The Els Club Desaru Coast is simply spectacular. I have yet to experience anything equal in the world of golf that offers such world class facilities with uninterrupted views and a fresh sea breeze in an authentic tropical destination.

The Els Club Malaysia was created by four-time major champion and World Golf Hall of Famer Ernie Els. The Valley Course was designed by Vijay Singh.