Etesia UK Strengthens Team with Three Key Appointments

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Etesia UK Strengthens Team with Three Key Appointments: Etesia UK has announced three new appointments as the company continues to invest in its people, dealer network and customer support.

Steven Massey has joined as Business Development Manager, Jim Maynard has taken on the role of Technical and After Sales Support, and Lisa Brown steps into the position of Office Manager.

Etesia UK Strengthens Team with Three Key Appointments

Etesia UK Strengthens Team with Three Key Appointments

With decades of combined industry experience, the new additions are set to strengthen Etesia UK’s presence across the grounds care sector while reinforcing its reputation for quality products and dependable back-up.

Steven Massey joins Etesia UK following a long and respected career within the grounds care industry. Having left school in 1988, Steven spent 10 years as a mechanic at GGM (Gibson’s Garden Machinery) before moving into sales in 1998 – a role he has held ever since, working exclusively within the sector.

“I’ve always sold grounds care equipment,” Steven explained. “I’ve worked with local authorities for most of my career, which is really my strong point, and I’m well known within the industry and the customer network.”

Steven’s relationship with the Etesia brand spans more than a decade, having worked with the machines during his time at Burrows Grass Machinery and later Sharrocks, both Etesia dealers. That familiarity made the transition into his new role a natural one.

“I want to make sure that Etesia products are at the forefront of people’s thoughts when they’re looking at buying machines,” he said. “People want efficient cut-and-collect machines, and whenever you demo an Etesia product, the feedback is always the same – how easy it is to use and how well it collects, even in the wet. Etesia really sets the standard there.”

As Business Development Manager, Steven’s focus is firmly on growing the brand while maintaining strong relationships with existing customers and dealers. “It’s about keeping existing business but also looking for new business,” he said. “You can never take your eye off either. My goal is to make Etesia the number one choice, when customers are looking to invest in new equipment.”

Joining Steven is Jim Maynard, who brings extensive technical and aftersales expertise to his role as Technical and After Sales Support. Jim began his career as a greenkeeper before moving into contracting and then training as a technician. He spent 21 years with John Deere before taking on senior technical support and training roles at Reesink, where he helped establish and support nationwide dealer networks.

“I absolutely love supporting dealers and technicians,” Jim said. “Helping people, solving problems and giving them the confidence to get the best out of the product – that’s what I enjoy most.”

At Etesia UK, Jim will be responsible for dealer technical support, training, warranty administration and registrations, ensuring that dealers and end users receive the highest levels of aftersales care.

“Excellent aftersales support is about trust,” Jim explained. “If you can gain that trust, you’re halfway there. It’s about being there for people, picking up the phone, helping them when they need it – that support makes all the difference.”

Completing the trio is Lisa Brown, who takes on the role of Office Manager. With experience across sales operations and administration, Lisa will become a key point of contact for Etesia UK, providing vital support to the wider team, dealers and customers alike. Her role is central to the smooth day-to-day running of the business, ensuring communication, coordination and customer service remain at the high standards Etesia is known for.

Together, the three appointments mark an important step forward for Etesia UK. With strengthened business development, enhanced technical support and robust operational management, the company is well positioned for continued success.

For further information, please contact Etesia UK on 01295 680120 or visit www.etesia.co.uk.

For more news, reviews and insightful views, you can follow Etesia UK on X @EtesiaUK and like the company’s Facebook page – www.facebook.com/EtesiaUK. You can also view the latest Etesia videos by visiting www.youtube.com/EtesiaUK

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Beth Gibbs Joins GMA As Regional Pitch Advisor

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Beth Gibbs Joins GMA As Regional Pitch Advisor: The Grounds Management Association (GMA) is proud to announce that Beth Gibbs has been appointed as the new Regional Pitch Advisor – Rugby Union, for the London and South East region, making her the first female to hold this position in the organisation’s history.

Beth began her grounds management career at Wellington School where she joined as an apprentice and undertook her Level 2 qualification in Sports Turf Maintenance. This early hands‑on experience has laid the foundation for her rapid progression in the profession and remains a defining part of her journey into grounds management.

Beth Gibbs Joins GMA As Regional Pitch Advisor

Beth Gibbs Joins GMA As Regional Pitch Advisor

A rising talent within the sector, Beth brings a track record of leadership and advocacy for early‑career professionals. She is an active member of the GMA’s NextGen group, championing pathways for young people entering the industry.

Her achievements were nationally recognised when she was named Young Groundsperson of the Year by the GMA in 2023.

In her new role as Regional Pitch Advisor for the South East and London, Beth will play a pivotal part in shaping and supporting professional standards across one of the most diverse and dynamic regions in the grounds sector. Her appointment shows the GMA’s continued dedication to improving representation and supporting future leaders in grounds management.

Beth Gibbs said: “It’s an honour to take on this role and to be the first female representative. The GMA has played an important part in my development and I’m excited to help others access the same opportunities. I’m passionate about supporting our community, especially young people starting their journey in the industry.”

Geoff Webb, CEO of the GMA, said: “Beth’s appointment is a significant moment for the GMA and for the wider grounds management industry. Beth brings a fresh perspective and real credibility which is why we’re proud to see her step into this role.”

Jason Booth, COO of the GMA, said: “Beth is an exceptional example of the future of our profession – dedicated, knowledgeable and inspiring to others. Her contribution to NextGen and her achievements to date show exactly why she is the right person for this role. We’re thrilled to welcome her to the team.”

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Duo Receive Pioneer Marks From The GMA

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Duo Receive Pioneer Marks From The GMA: Two previous members of the GMA Young Board, now known as GMA NextGen, have been awarded their Pioneer Marks as part of the Pioneer Legacy initiative, recognising the contributions of past and present members of GMA NextGen.

The Pioneer Mark is a distinctive legacy number that symbolises the impact each member has made on the grounds management profession.

Duo Receive Pioneer Marks From The GMA

Duo Receive Pioneer Marks From The GMA

Will Graves (#002) joined the industry in 2010 as an apprentice at Merchant Taylors’ School and became part of the first Young Board in 2011, later serving as Chair in 2014. He went on to join the ground staff team at Watford Football Club while also gaining experience at Wembley Stadium.

He said: “My time working with the Young Board of Directors was a real highlight of my career to date. We all worked hard to make a positive difference and increase opportunities for those both inside and outside of the profession. I am very grateful to both the GMA and Reesink UK for everything they did and continue to do to support the group.”

Harry Boxell (#022) served four years on the Young Board from 2016. He began his grounds management career at 16 and progressed through roles at Tottenham Hotspur and Godolphin, before taking on the role of Head of Grounds and Gardens at Embley Park in 2017. He is now Estates Manager, overseeing the 130-acre Grade II listed parkland.

Harry says: “I vividly remember driving down from Newmarket for the interview and being struck by the beauty of the buildings and grounds, while also recognising the potential for further enhancement.”

“Throughout my career, I have had the opportunity to meet and learn from many inspiring individuals,” He added. “Some of my most memorable experiences were through my involvement with the Young Board of Directors. We met regularly and were fortunate to visit venues such as the Stade de France, Parc des Princes (home of Paris Saint-Germain), and several other prestigious sites.”

Jennifer Carter, GMA Director of Communications and Marketing, said: “The GMA would like to thank Will and Harry for their contributions during their time with the NextGen, formerly known as the Young Board.

“It’s really important that we recognise the contributions they have all made to the grounds management industry by awarding them with their pioneer marks. We’re excited to continue the legacy and are now looking to recruit the next generation of passionate individuals to carry the group forward.”

The duo join the ranks of respected NextGen alumni who have received their Pioneer Marks, which can be viewed here.

GMA NextGen are now welcoming new members under 35 who are ready to make a difference in the grounds management industry.

If you’re passionate about shaping the sector’s future, express your interest here. 

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Agrovista Amenity Welcomes New Amenity Specialist

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Agrovista Amenity Welcomes New Amenity Specialist: Agrovista Amenity has strengthened its team with the appointment of Ben Simpson, who joins as Amenity Specialist supporting the Landscape and IVM division.

Ben brings a varied career background and a refreshed enthusiasm for the amenity sector.

Agrovista Amenity Welcomes New Amenity Specialist

Agrovista Amenity Welcomes New Amenity Specialist

Although a qualified plumber by trade, he previously spent three years with Green-Tech, where he first discovered his passion for the industry. After a period back “on the tools”, he found himself drawn once again to amenity – but this time in a role that better matched his strengths and ambitions.

“I enjoyed it the first-time round, but this role at Agrovista Amenity suited me a lot more,” he says. “I wanted to be out meeting customers face to face. This is a relationship-driven industry and that’s what gives me a buzz.”

Based centrally within his territory, Ben will support customers across a wide northern patch – from Leeds up to just above Newcastle, across to the East Coast, and as far west as the M6. His remit covers the full spectrum of amenity clients, including contractors, councils, landscaping businesses and maintenance teams.

Day to day, Ben will be out on the road meeting current and prospective customers, taking over an established base while also identifying new opportunities in the region. “I’m fortunate to be stepping into a well-looked-after area,” he explains. “But I’m also excited to grow it further. A typical week is a real mix: most days on the road and some from home planning and admin work – everything from cold leads through to ongoing account management.”

The appeal of Agrovista Amenity was immediate. Although the role was initially advertised via a recruiter, the company name quickly stood out once he reached the interview stage.

“I had obviously heard of Agrovista, but when I met Ed Smith – Landscape and IVM Manager, and learned more about the business, everything just seemed to fit. The interview was relaxed, the atmosphere was down to earth, and from day one I have felt part of the team. It feels like I’ve been here seven years, not seven days.”

Ben says the support network has been exceptional. After completing training in Nottingham and Warrington, he was introduced to the wider team and quickly found himself welcomed into a collaborative environment. “Even though you spend a lot of time on your own out on the road, I definitely feel part of a team. Every single person has offered help. It’s been brilliant.”

Looking ahead, Ben is eager to get stuck in and begin building long-term relationships across his territory.

“I’m competitive by nature – I used to play cricket to a decent standard before a shoulder injury stopped me – so I enjoy the challenge. But more than that, this industry is full of genuinely good people. Customers become friends. I’m really looking forward to growing those relationships and contributing to Agrovista’s continued success.”

Reflecting on his appointment, Ben admits the opportunity still feels a little surreal:

“I was over the moon when I got the job. Having been out of the industry for a little while, I honestly couldn’t believe it at first. But it’s been fantastic. I’ve settled in well, everyone has been so supportive, and I can’t wait to move forward with it.”

For more information about Agrovista UK, visit https://amenity.agrovista.co.uk/

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Springdale Resort’s Jeremy Boone becomes 91st Master Greenkeeper

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Springdale Resort’s Jeremy Boone becomes 91st Master Greenkeeper: Jeremy Boone, general manager and director of agronomy at Springdale Resort, has become the 91st Master Greenkeeper since the certification’s inception in 1990. 

In doing so, Jeremy is just the 37th person to possess both Master Greenkeeper and Certified Golf Course Superintendent (CGCS) classifications – two of the highest accolades available to experienced golf greenkeepers on either side of the Atlantic.

Springdale Resort's Jeremy Boone becomes 91st Master Greenkeeper

Springdale Resort’s Jeremy Boone becomes 91st Master Greenkeeper

It is an achievement Jeremy, who works in North Carolina, has been striving for since 2022 and he was overcome with emotion when Deb Burnett, learning and development manager at the British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA), called to deliver the news.

“It’s been quite a journey,” he said. “It’s been at least three years of trying, with some failing along the way, but each time I refused to give up.

“When Deb called, she didn’t say that I had passed or failed, she just said, ‘I called to see if you’d be available to come over here to BTME in January’. It was the best way to tell me I’d passed. I just lost it.

“People had told me it would be worth it when I got through, and I didn’t know how right they were. I told her she’d have to talk for a minute because I couldn’t.”

Jeremy’s greenkeeping journey began in 1991, when he transferred to NC State University to study turfgrass management and committed to a career in golf. Over the following decades he worked across four states, earned CGCS status – a designation he has now held for 25 years – and first became aware of the Master Greenkeeper qualification in 1996 when he noticed ‘CGCS, MG’ alongside Gary Grigg’s name.

He later stepped away from golf to run a local hardware business, helping expand it from one store to five, but was ultimately drawn back when Springdale came calling, with his family having deep roots at the North Carolina venue.

“The only reason I came back was this golf course,” he said. “My mother, father and grandmother worked here. My grandparents are buried within a few hundred yards of it. This place drew me back. Without it, there would be no Jeremy Boone MG.”

In joining that exclusive club, Jeremy has also achieved something personally meaningful.

“I’m probably the first Native American to be a Master Greenkeeper – I am an enrolled member of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians,” he explained. “That is the reason why I have such an affinity and a tie to the land.”

Jeremy was inundated with congratulatory messages from fellow Master Greenkeepers and colleagues across the profession – support he describes as humbling. He also paid tribute to Springdale owner Lex West for his encouragement throughout the process and said none of it would have been possible without his wife, whom he calls his greatest supporter.

Most recently, Jeremy has progressed into the general manager role at Springdale. It was not a transition he had planned to make, but the circumstances brought about by a natural disaster set him on an unexpected new path.

“I was happy being the superintendent,” he said. “I love being outside and I love being with the grass. When the hurricane hit, I volunteered to step in as interim general manager until we got through the disaster. We thought it would take a few months, maybe six.

“Then the owner told me he wanted me to take the general manager role permanently. I remember saying I’d spent the last five years trying to convince him the superintendent is the most important person on the golf course, and now I wasn’t going to be the superintendent anymore. He just said, ‘You’ll do fine’.

To qualify for the Master Greenkeeper Certificate, a candidate must have at least 10 years’ experience working as a greenkeeper including three years as a course manager, head greenkeeper or superintendent. Certification includes the completion of a rigorous assessment programme that covers all aspects of golf course management.

Master Greenkeeper is a mark of distinction and is highly respected in the golf industry, signifying the holder has achieved the highest level of professional expertise with a commitment to maintaining the highest standards of golf course management.

You can find out more about Master Greenkeeper on the BIGGA website, www.bigga.org.uk

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