June is National Women’s Golf Month. To celebrate we are featuring a few of the incredible women who are a part of the PXG Troops.
Meet Kate Sheppard, Marketing Director for PXG. A golf fanatic, Kate grew up in the Isle of Man where she competed twice on the Manx National Golf Team during the International Island Games. Following her passion for the sport, Kate worked for Scottish Golf alongside Ryder Cup Europe and the European Tour during the lead-up to the 2014 Ryder Cup. With a focus on golf development and grassroots activation, she supported the YOY growth of the game among young people in Scotland.
After moving to the US, Kate enjoyed a little over 3 years in a senior strategic marketing role for a national golf and resort management company before finding her place at PXG.
She is passionate about women’s sports and, in particular, encouraging more women to enjoy the game of golf.
PXG asked Kate the following questions to learn more about why she chose to work in the golf industry, what her dream job was as a kid, and more. Here are her responses:
HOW DID YOU FIRST GET INTO GOLF?
My Dad introduced me to golf. We would go to the driving range on Sunday mornings and hit balls together.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MEMORY ON THE GOLF COURSE?
I have two stand-out memories – one, playing the Old Course in St Andrews in winds and hail that grounded even the seagulls. And, two – winning the Isle of Man Women’s Championship at my home club.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE OTHER WOMEN INTERESTED IN THE GOLF INDUSTRY?
Build a strong network of contacts and make time to get out and play! You’ll keep a pulse on all that is current in the industry and hopefully win a few skins along the way.
WHAT IS THE BEST PART OF YOUR JOB?
The opportunity to follow my passion for golf marketing alongside a team of truly talented people. Testing out brand-new PXG equipment before it’s released is also a huge perk for me!
WHAT IS THE BEST CAREER ADVICE YOU’VE RECEIVED AND HOW HAVE YOU APPLIED IT TO YOUR CURRENT POSITION?
I’m a fan of Steven Covey’s 7 Habits of Highly Effective People – “Seek first to understand, then to be understood” always resonated with me. I believe it helps to create a healthy working dialogue for all parties.
WHAT WAS YOUR DREAM JOB AS A KID AND WHY?
Marketing for a leading golf equipment manufacturer has always been my goal. I grew up reading golf magazines packed with big, beautiful print ads and watching TV commercials featuring my golfing heroes. I knew I wanted to be a part of that world. Now with the growth of digital media, the role is even more diverse, and data driven, but I love the blend of creative, strategy and sales, all wrapped up in a world that continues to fascinate me!
TELL US ONE THING PEOPLE WOULD BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU.
I competed in the British University Games, representing Scotland in field hockey and soccer.
