James Harris and Cory Desilva have both emigrated to the UAE, and are both rising stars in the local golf industry.
James Harris and Cory Desilva’s journeys to Yas Links in Abu Dhabi are stories of perseverance, passion and adaptability. Both hail from small islands — James from the Isle of Man in the UK and Cory from Bermuda in the Atlantic Ocean — where golf became a key part of their lives early on.
For James, golf has been a passion since the age of eight, and his early career was shaped by studying golf management at Myerscough College in Preston, England. Cory, on the other hand, combined his love for golf with his academic background in global business and management, transitioning from a competitor to a professional in the golf industry.
James and Cory are both rising stars within Viya Golf (a cluster of three clubs in Abu Dhabi: Yas Links, Saadiyat Beach GC and Yas Acres G&CC) and Yas Links, taking their first steps into golf management and already leaving an indelible mark. Their contributions have been instrumental in delivering the premium, world-class experience that Yas Links is renowned for. Both have earned respect from their peers and from Karl Whitehead, the cluster club manager at Viya Golf.
Reflecting on their impact, Karl Whitehead said: “James and Cory have demonstrated remarkable passion, professionalism and fresh thinking in their roles at Yas Links and across Viya Golf. Their commitment to excellence and adaptability in the face of new challenges have been pivotal in enhancing the experience we provide to our members and guests. They truly embody the qualities of future leaders in the golf industry.”
The challenges of transitioning to Abu Dhabi
Moving to Abu Dhabi was a significant step for both James and Cory, bringing new opportunities and challenges. For James, the cultural shift was initially daunting, coming from the tight-knit community of the Isle of Man. However, he quickly embraced the diversity and warmth of the UAE, finding it to be a place where ‘west meets east’. Cory also reflected on the fast-paced, yet sometimes complex, business environment in Abu Dhabi, noting the importance of understanding and adapting to the cultural nuances of an international workforce.
Making an impact at Yas Links
Both James and Cory have made significant contributions to Yas Links. James, now a key figure in golf operations, thrives on the variety and unpredictability of his role. “Every day is different, and that’s what makes it exciting,” he says. He’s honed his time management and leadership skills, emphasising the importance of delegating tasks and trusting his team.
Cory, as the golf services manager, oversees the operational and financial aspects of the club, ensuring a seamless five-star experience for guests. His global exposure has equipped him with the ability to communicate effectively with a diverse team, a skill he credits as crucial to his success. “Being fortunate enough to be well-travelled and diverse in communication has helped me settle here,” he shared.
Training and growth within Viya Golf
Both professionals have invested heavily in their growth, benefiting from the extensive training provided by Viya Golf. James highlights his participation in The R&A Trainee programme and service excellence training, while Cory is on track to become a certified club manager, a milestone he aims to achieve within the next two years.
James and Cory have ambitious goals for the future. James is passionate about advancing to roles such as operations manager or director of golf, with a keen interest in event management. Cory envisions a pathway to club management and possibly a wider group management role, blending his operational expertise with his aspirations for leadership.
Advice for aspiring professionals
Both James and Cory agree on the importance of patience, networking and maintaining an open mind. James emphasises enjoying the learning process and embracing opportunities to network, while Cory advises young professionals to be “sponges” for learning and to step out of their comfort zones. Their stories are a reminder that success in the golf industry requires not only technical skills but also adaptability and resilience.
Their journeys — from small islands to one of the world’s most prestigious golf destinations — can serve as inspiration for those considering a career in the global golf industry.
Yas Links, with its dynamic environment and emphasis on professional development, continues to be a place where ambitious individuals like James and Cory can thrive.
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