60 Seconds with Mike Brear

Mike has been a well-known character within the industry and as he retires from Origin (Rigby Taylor), we ask about the changes, the challenges and the friendships made throughout his career

BY KAREN MAXWELL

When did you embark on a career in turf management?

I joined Abbeydale Golf Club in Sheffield as an assistant greenkeeper straight from school in 1976. It was an attractive role for me as I caddied at nearby Dore and Totley Golf Club and I played a lot of golf. I worked there for 14 years and became deputy head greenkeeper before relocating to Shipley in West Yorkshire, where I took two years out to look after my son. 

I had planned to get back into greenkeeping and had plenty of support from Pat Murphy – the course manager at Shipley Beckfoot Golf Club. However, after seeing an advert for a golf course equipment salesman for Trident, which was then owned by Rigby Taylor, I embarked on a career in sales in the North East and met many customers who I still count as friends today. 

Overseeing a team of five, I was North East sales director for Rigby Taylor [now owned by Origin Amenity Solutions] for many years. However, due to health concerns, I recently moved to a role where I only looked after my South Yorkshire customers. I can honestly say that throughout my 32 years with the company they have been extremely supportive of me.

In your opinion, how have turfcare products evolved over the years?

Products have moved on a lot during my time in the industry, with companies now investing more heavily in research, development and advanced manufacturing techniques to ensure excellent results. 

Social media has also played a massive role in information sharing, while the increasing practice of measuring turf conditions, rather than just visual interpretation, is improving product outcomes. For example, moisture meters are now common pieces of kit that are used within water management to ensure sustainable practices. 

What did you most enjoy about your job?

I’ve always taken an interest in new recruits and apprentices by giving advice and support with their college work or queries, and it was that mentoring role that gave me the most satisfaction. 

To be able to watch people progress their careers is worth more than reaching any sales target to me. It’s the friendships that I’ve made within our wonderful industry that I’m going to miss the most.

What are you looking forward to in your retirement?

Throughout my 47 years in the industry, I’ve visited many iconic sports stadia and wonderful golf courses, as well as community bowls and cricket clubs – where I’ve thoroughly enjoyed working with turf professionals and volunteers. 

I guess now I’ll have the time to produce the best lawn in our street and enjoy it over a glass of wine with my ever-supportive wife, Elaine.