Viya Golf has unveiled a trio of internal promotions that reflect both the talent within its team and the company’s continued growth, with three familiar faces stepping into new leadership roles across Yas Links, Saadiyat Beach and Yas Acres.
Daniel Richards has been appointed Golf Operations Manager at Yas Links Abu Dhabi, while Mason Geddes takes up the position of Golf Services Manager at Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, and James Harris has been promoted to Golf Services Manager at Yas Acres.
Having first joined Viya Golf as an outside operations attendant in 2019, Dan’s rise has been steady and well-earned. “I never thought that six years later I’d be a Golf Operations Manager in Abu Dhabi,” he reflected. “It’s an extremely proud moment for me to lead the team at arguably the best golf club in the region.” With Yas Links set to once again host the DP World Tour’s Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship, he describes the new role as “a dream come true.”
Just three years ago, Mason arrived in Abu Dhabi as an intern. Now, at only 24, he has achieved his long-term goal two years ahead of schedule at Saadiyat Beach Golf Club. “When I joined the company I created a three-year plan to become Golf Services Manager by 2026,” he explained. “To have reached that by September 2025 feels amazing. It’s a great honour and privilege to lead the operation at such a special destination, particularly as we embark on an exciting new chapter with the full relaunch of our redeveloped golf course to the public.”
Meanwhile, James’ promotion to Golf Services Manager at Yas Acres sees him bring a strong grounding in operations at a world top-100 course, having previously worked at Yas Links. For James, the promotion is both a source of pride and an exciting opportunity: “I’ve spent the past few seasons learning from different managers and leaders, and now to be trusted with leading the operation here gives me a lot of pride,” he commented. “I’m also really looking forward to getting more involved with the recreational side of the club – from padel to the pool, to the family facilities – it’s a fantastic challenge.”
Alongside looking ahead to their new responsibilities, all three shared advice for others hoping to follow a similar path.
Dan’s mantra is simple: “Short-term loss, long-term gain. Sometimes you need to take a leap of faith – the opportunities you get abroad can be far greater than staying at home.”
For Mason, the key is to say ‘yes’. “It might feel daunting at times, but saying ‘yes’ to opportunities opens doors you never imagined. I moved over as an intern for six months, and now I’m running golf services.”
James emphasises patience and curiosity: “Enjoy the process, absorb knowledge from everyone around you – the good and the bad – and you’ll grow into a better leader. We’re working in world-class facilities; if we enjoy it, that energy will carry through to our guests and colleagues.”
Together, the trio represent the next generation of golf leadership in Abu Dhabi. Each has followed a path shaped by hard work, collaboration, and a willingness to seize opportunities. Their progress is also a reflection of Viya Golf’s culture, where internal development is championed, and growth is achieved by reinvesting in people as well as facilities.
Karl Whitehead, Cluster Club Manager at Viya Golf, expressed his pride in seeing the trio step up. “Dan, Mason and James have each shown exceptional commitment, drive and leadership potential during their time with us. It has been a privilege to mentor them and watch their careers develop. I couldn’t be prouder to see them take on these new challenges, and I’m excited to see the impact they will make across our clubs.”