The North Florida PGA welcomes Andrew Yeast as the next Executive Director effective January 20, 2025.
Andrew Yeast grew up in Harrodsburg, Kentucky receiving his first golf lesson from Bruce Brown, PGA. From age 12 through college Andrew spent his summers with Bruce at Old Bridge Golf Club, honing his game and working at the facility in various roles. “There is no doubt that his mentorship and qualities he conveyed had a profound influence not only on me as a golfer, but as a person.”
Andrew attended Eastern Kentucky University as a member of the men’s varsity golf team and completed his Bachelor of Arts in history and minor in political science – Cum Laude. After completing his undergraduate degree, Andrew spent one year serving in a sales role for a third- party logistics company. Following this stint outside the industry, Andrew decided to follow his passion for the game of golf. He started with the American Junior Golf Association in 2015, Andrew served as a Tournament Coordinator, Tournament Manager, Regional Manager (South Central), and Regional Director (Southeast). As the Southeast Regional Director for the AJGA, Andrew was responsible for securing new sponsorships and renewals, while managing the operational budget of twenty-two events. This experience allowed him to grow his business development and event planning skills, while reinforcing the importance of strategic collaboration with various stakeholders.
Andrew currently serves as the Senior Director of Industry Engagement at the World Golf Foundation, overseeing the American Golf Industry Coalition’s operations while managing relationships with over fifty organizations and C-level executives. Andrew has played a significant role in fundraising to secure annual contributions supporting growth and fostering collaborative partnerships. Through these partnerships, Andrew has led the efforts to execute a grassroots grant program that has contributed $2.5 million since 2021, demonstrating his commitment to community engagement and inclusion within the sport.
As the Executive Director, Andrew will be operating the day-to-day business of the North Florida PGA and PGA REACH North Florida pursuant to the bylaws, policies, and standards established by the Board of Directors. Andrew will be responsible for oversight of the NFPGA team, working in collaboration to develop a strategic plan, will serve as the direct liaison to the NFPGA Board of Directors (Section & Foundation), and represent the NFPGA with industry partners and in our communities to advocate on behalf of the PGA Professional, their facilities/businesses, and the game of golf.
Andrew and his wife McKenzie are excited for the journey and look forward to moving to the Central Florida area. Besides playing golf, Andrew enjoys reading, staying active outside, studying financial markets, and spending time with his family and friends. He currently serves as an At-large Board Member for the National Alliance for Accessible Golf. Andrew is excited to pursue his path to PGA Membership with the NFPGA.
With the support of PGA ExecuSearch, thank you to the Selection Committee for their dedication and guidance through the process. Mark Verkey (Palmer Legends Country Club), Darin Hoff (Evermore Resort – Grand Cypress Golf), Kevin Paschall (Serenoa Golf Club), Rob Anderson (Old Memorial Golf Club), Rod Perry (Crane Lakes Golf & Country Club), and Wes Tucker (St. Johns Golf Club). On behalf of the Selection Committee, please join me in congratulating and welcoming Andrew as our new Executive Director for the North Florida PGA. We are excited for the future, while remaining focused on our purpose to promote the enjoyment and involvement in the game of golf and to contribute to its growth by providing services to golf professionals and the golf industry. Andrew is excited to serve the NFPGA and PGA REACH North Florida.