Anna Darnell, most recently general manager of The Grove in Hertfordshire, has been welcomed by Viya as the new general manager of Emirates Golf Club.
Darnell has more than 20 years of leadership experience across championship golf venues and luxury hospitality, and has a track record of delivering exceptional member and guest experiences, building high-performing teams and driving operational excellence.
Working with the wider Viya leadership team, she will oversee all aspects of the club’s operations, helping to shape its next phase of growth while continuing to enhance the experience of members, guests and international visitors.
Christopher May, CEO of Viya, said: “We are delighted to officially welcome Anna to Emirates Golf Club. She is a highly respected leader within the golf industry whose experience, energy and passion for excellence make her a fantastic addition to the Viya team. As Emirates Golf Club continues to evolve as a global destination for golf, hospitality and lifestyle, Anna’s leadership will play an important role in shaping its future while building on the exceptional standards the club is renowned for.”
Darnell joins after senior roles at some of golf’s best-known venues. As well as The Grove, these include Royal Golf Club in Bahrain, Marriott Hanbury Manor Hotel & Country Club and Loch Lomond Golf Club. She is known for combining operational expertise with a people-first leadership style, and is a qualified PGA Professional.
Darnell said: “It is an honour to join Emirates Golf Club, a venue that has earned an outstanding reputation around the world and has played such an important role in the growth of golf in the region. From my very first conversations with the team, it was clear there is a shared ambition to keep raising the bar across every aspect of the club experience. I’m incredibly excited to begin working with the team, getting to know our members and guests, and helping write the next chapter in the club’s remarkable story.”
Emirates Golf Club has been at the heart of golf in the Middle East for more than 35 years. It is home to the Majlis Course, host of the Hero Dubai Desert Classic, and the Faldo Course, and is recognised internationally for its premium hospitality, dining, leisure and lifestyle offering.
The appointment reflects Viya’s continued commitment to investing in exceptional people and delivering world-class experiences, as Emirates Golf Club looks ahead to an exciting future both on and off the course.
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