Jayne Leyland to Retire from Origin Amenity Solutions

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Jayne Leyland to Retire from Origin Amenity Solutions: After more than three decades shaping the future of amenity turf management, Jayne Leyland, Product Portfolio Director at Origin Amenity Solutions (OAS), retired on 31 July 2025. Her departure marks the end of a remarkable 13-year career at OAS and more than 30 years in the turf and landscaping industry.

Jayne joined Rigby Taylor in 2012, which became OAS in 2021, and was the driving force behind some of the company’s most innovative and sustainable product developments. Her legacy includes leading the creation of the Carbon4Grass seed range, an innovative product that combines superior performance with carbon sequestration benefits, which was recently named Pro Landscaper’s Sustainable Product of the Year in 2024. She was also the driving force in advancing the development and wider adoption of tetraploid grass seed technology, helping to deliver stronger, more resilient swards with faster establishment and improved stress tolerance.

Jayne Leyland to Retire from Origin Amenity Solutions

Jayne Leyland to Retire from Origin Amenity Solutions

Jayne is well known and respected for her extensive technical knowledge, customer-focused approach, and passion for sustainable turf care. She has played a vital role in expanding OAS’s research and trial programmes to ensure that product innovation is grounded in science and shaped by the needs of the industry.

In 2024, her outstanding contribution to the turf care sector was formally recognised when she was inducted into the Grounds Management Association (GMA) Hall of Fame, an honour that celebrates lifetime achievement and service to the groundskeeping profession.

Reflecting on her career, Jayne comments, “It’s been a privilege to work in such a fast-moving and passionate industry. I’ve loved collaborating with customers, colleagues, and partners who care deeply about the land they manage and the standards they uphold. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved together at OAS and look forward to seeing OAS continue to develop and grow.”

Richard Walton, Managing Director at OAS, paid tribute to Jayne’s leadership and long-standing commitment. He adds, “Jayne’s vision and expertise have profoundly shaped our product portfolio and sustainability strategy. Her ability to translate complex science into practical, impactful solutions has made her an invaluable part of our team. We’re grateful for her dedication over the past 13 years and wish Jayne the very best in her retirement.”

Jayne’s background in greenkeeping and agronomy, along with her earlier work at Barenbrug earned her widespread respect across the amenity and sports turf sectors. Her influence has extended beyond product development into training, education, and mentoring the next generation of turf professionals.

Her departure will be felt across the industry, but Jayne leaves behind, a stronger, more sustainable approach to managing amenity landscapes.

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Nick Brown Joins Asian Golf Industry Federation Board

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Nick Brown Joins Asian Golf Industry Federation Board: Campey Turf Care Systems is delighted to announce that for the first time, a member of the Campey team has been appointed to the board of the Asian Golf Industry Federation Board (AGIF).

“We have been working closely with the AGIF for many years, contributing advice, information and practical assistance on the ground to the golf course managers and turf professionals across Asia.” Said Managing Director Julia Campey. “To be able to positively influence the direction of the industry, through Nick’s experience and insight, is a unique and valuable opportunity.”

Nick Brown Joins Asian Golf Industry Federation Board

Nick Brown Joins Asian Golf Industry Federation Board

Chris Gray has welcomed Campey Export Sales Manager Nick Brown. The AGIF President said: “We’re delighted to have an individual of Nick’s experience and understanding of the golf industry join the AGIF Board. We look forward to the fresh perspectives he will bring with him.

After many years as a member, we’re especially pleased as this is the first time that Campey Turf Care Systems has had representation on the Board.

These are exciting times for the Federation, and I have no doubt we will benefit from the expertise that Nick will bring to the table.”

For his part, Nick brings more than 25 years of experience in the golf and sports turf industry, including a previous role at Ransomes Jacobsen, where he gained extensive knowledge of international markets.

As the Export Sales Manager at Campey Turf Care Systems, a company specialising in turf care machinery, Nick is responsible for expanding Campey’s presence in international markets, focusing on building and maintaining long-lasting customer relationships.

Reflecting on his appointment, Nick stated, “My role on the AGIF board allows me to directly engage with members, understand emerging trends, and advocate for their needs while building high-level networks in both developed and emerging markets.

Nick concludes “As golf continues to grow in its appeal across Asia—from grassroots development to championship venues —I feel that the AGIF and its board members remain essential to guiding that momentum in a direction that is commercially viable, environmentally responsible, and globally connected.”

For further information please contact nick@campeyturfcare.com

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Reesink Hydro-Scapes make key appointment

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Reesink Hydro-Scapes make key appointment: In a period of sustained expansion, Reesink Hydro-Scapes has created a role to strengthen the sale and technical support provided to its water related customers.

Adam Moss joins the team as the new Sales and Technical Support Representative, covering the south of the UK and Channel Islands.

Reesink Hydro-Scapes make key appointment

Reesink Hydro-Scapes make key appointment

He brings with him the perfect blend of experience. He’s got practical experience from working in a turfcare role: 21 years in total as First Assistant Greenkeeper at Evesham Golf Club, Deputy Head Greenkeeper at Blackwell Golf Club and Course Manager at Henley Golf Club giving him awareness of the realities of the job, a detailed understanding of the industry and a passion for turf management.

In these roles, Adam used Toro irrigation equipment and machinery, so he is familiar with not only the products he will be working and supporting customers with, but also with Reesink as Toro’s UK distributor.

Adam explains: “I can speak from experience when it comes to helping new and existing customers with the irrigation issues they face. I will be able to help problem solve and find solutions. Whether it is the pressures of the weather, budget issues, technical problems, or additional support, the chances are I faced the same, or a similar, situation.”

Adam’s last role before joining Reesink was in a turfcare sales role which will certainly aid him in building strong relationships and identifying new business opportunities for Reesink.

Robert Jackson, Reesink Hydro-Scapes Division Manager, says: “We understand the water business is specialist and the products require specific training to get the best out of them. We were waiting for the right person to demonstrate the qualities required to understand the customer’s requirements on a practical level and provide the necessary help and support, as well as develop and retain relationships with existing and new customers. Adam, with his expertise and industry insight, is that person.”

And if all that wasn’t enough Adam is a keen golfer so knows what constitutes to good playing conditions in real life – he has a handicap of four! So, whether you’re diving into the world of sprinkler systems for the first time or navigating water management software, Adam is available for a chat to help make the right decisions regarding water requirements such as precision control and reliability.

“The time is certainly now for everyone in the golf course industry to be evaluating their water usage and supply against the backdrop of the changes in weather and the strain on older systems,” Adam concludes. “I’m really excited about the prospect of starting customers on their journey towards water sustainability and best practise and being there every step of the way.”

For those wishing to start a conversation about irrigation in the south of the UK and Channel Islands can contact Adam, while Pete Newton can be contacted by those in the north of the UK, by calling Reesink Hydro-Scapes on 01480 226800, emailing info@reesinkturfcare.co.uk or visiting reesinkhydro-scapes.co.uk.

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Strategic realignment at AriensCo

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Strategic realignment at AriensCo: AriensCo announces a change of leadership in the EMEAA region (Europe, Middle East, Africa and Asia). This is a logical step in the current generational transition of the family business. The EMEAA region is crucial to drive global growth and strengthen international activities.

Jochen Schneider leaves AriensCo

Jochen Schneider (Executive Vice President AriensCo EMEAA) has left the company with immediate effect. AriensCo thanks him for his commitment and wishes him all the best for his future endeavours.

Strategic realignment at AriensCo

Strategic realignment at AriensCo

Jim Young (Chief Financial Officer at AriensCo) will assume interim responsibility for the region in close coordination with Nick Ariens (President AriensCo) and the Ariens family.

“Looking to the future, we are convinced that greater family involvement in the EMEAA region is crucial to realising our long-term vision,” says Nick Ariens.  “In addition to our home market, the EMEAA region is hugely important for our global development. We want to further strengthen our commitment in this region with the AS-Motor and Ariens brands.”

The innovations that AriensCo presented at demopark 2025 in Eisenach, Europe’s largest open-air exhibition for the green sector, emphasise the strength and future potential of both brands. “Together with our EMEAA team, we look forward to further developing the product portfolio, further expanding our sales channels and growing market share throughout Europe.”

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Andy Walker Retires After 49 Years the Howardson Group

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Andy Walker Retires After 49 Years the Howardson Group: After nearly five decades of dedicated service, Andy Walker, Field Support Manager at the Howardson Group, is set to retire, marking the end of an era for one of the industry’s most respected figures.

Andy’s journey began in 1976 when, aged just 16, he walked into the SISIS factory on a whim. When asked if he’d been sent from the job centre, he quickly said yes – even though he hadn’t. As luck would have it, the real candidate’s taxi never turned up, and Andy landed a one-month trial. It didn’t take long for him to “cut the mustard,” and he soon secured a permanent role.

Andy Walker Retires After 49 Years the Howardson Group

Andy Walker Retires After 49 Years the Howardson Group

From humble beginnings on the shop floor, Andy’s ambition quickly became apparent. A chance conversation with a manager at a nearby engineering site led to an opportunity in the design engineering department, where Andy thrived. While working full-time, he also completed a five-year engineering course at Stockport Technology College and was later promoted to department manager.

In 1983, Andy took a new path into sales – a move that would define much of his career. After twelve years, he stepped into the role of Product Evaluation Manager, using his deep technical knowledge to test and refine new equipment before it went to market. By 2009, he had taken on the title of Field Support Manager – a role in which he became a true ambassador for both the Dennis and SISIS brands.

When SISIS was acquired by the Howardson Group in 2011, Andy welcomed the change. “It was the best thing that could have happened,” he said. “Dennis and SISIS complement each other perfectly. It was a natural fit, and we’ve only gone from strength to strength since.”

Andy’s career has taken him across the globe – from the UK’s bowling greens to Premier League football stadiums, and everywhere in between. He’s delivered product demonstrations, led mower seminars, and worked with clients from grassroots clubs to government ministers. He’s visited every continent – highlights include a visit to Pearl Harbor in Hawaii and a memorable trip to Alcatraz during a stateside demo tour.

One of his proudest achievements was working closely with Manchester City FC. As a lifelong City fan, being part of that project was a personal and professional highlight. “It was a lot of back and forth, a lot of tweaking and testing, but we got there. They ordered over 20 machines.”

Beyond the travel and product launches, it’s the people that have made the journey worthwhile. “It’s a lovely industry to work in,” Andy reflected. “You meet such a range – from people at local bowling greens to heads of sports facilities all over the world. And I’ve been lucky to work with some great colleagues who’ve become lifelong friends.”

Among those he’s closest to is Ben Lloyd, who Andy’s worked alongside for over 20 years. “I’ve probably spent more time with him than anyone else in recent years. We’ve shared some graft, plenty of laughs – and I’ll leave it at that!”

But when asked who deserves the biggest thank you, Andy’s answer is simple: his wife, Linda. “She’s the one who made it all possible. In the early years, I’d be away for three months of the year. With two young daughters at home, she held everything together. I owe her everything.”

As he steps into retirement, Andy plans to thank Linda properly – starting with a tour of the British coastline in their caravan, followed by road trips through France and Spain. “It’s time for our own adventure,” he says.

Andy leaves behind an incredible legacy – 49 years, countless miles travelled, and a lasting impact on turf care both at home and abroad.

“I never dreaded going to work. That’s the truth of it. I’ve had a blast.”

For further information visit www.howardsongroup.com

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