Take your career to the next level with FTMI

Applications for the Future Turf Managers Initiative (FTMI) open on 1 May, providing ambitious greenkeepers with an opportunity to pursue their career aspirations.

BIGGA and our Premium Partner Jacobsen recognise the importance of preparing greenkeepers to take on the role of head greenkeeper or course manager. FTMI is designed to do just that, with professional trainers and mentors giving candidates the skills, knowledge and confidence to take the next step in their development.

“We feel hugely proud of the people who go through the FTMI programme each year because we know they’ve gone on a journey,” said CEO Jim Croxton. “They have to work hard and invest in themselves. They lean on their mentors and their own employers, but we know when they come out of it that they have a chance to move on in their careers.”

Chris Keeler, deputy course manager at Prestbury, was part of the most recent cohort and reaped the benefits.

“From an educational perspective, FTMI has been the most valuable development opportunity of my career so far,” he said. “The programme offers a strong real-world focus, providing an excellent platform for those looking to progress into management roles. Our mentors — Ben Williams (Royal Cinque Ports), Leigh Powell (Windlesham Golf Club) and James Parker (Machrihanish Dunes) — were incredibly supportive, offering honest insight and sharing their industry experience, and it is reassuring to know they remain approachable for guidance. Our leadership coach, Vicky Elliott-Potter, was brilliant and very focused on getting us out of our comfort zones, which was vital for our growth. FTMI also created a fantastic networking opportunity. The relationships formed with fellow delegates have developed into a strong and a professional support network for the future. I am very grateful to BIGGA and Jacobsen for delivering such a positive and career-shaping experience.”

FTMI begins at Ransomes Jacobsen’s headquarters in Ipswich and is followed by a series of online education sessions before culminating in two days of education at BTME in January.

This event is aimed at up-and-coming greenkeepers who want to make the leap into management, with a focus on personal and professional development, rather than agronomy-based subjects. The ideal candidate will show initiative, dedication to greenkeeping, a genuine interest in the industry and be actively involved in education at both a regional and national level. They will have worked as a greenkeeper for a minimum of three years and will hold their Level 2 qualification. A nominator will be required to validate each application.

International BIGGA members may apply but should note that they will be expected to meet their own travel expenses.