Jeff Ma, known for his quantitative skills, has made a name for himself in the golf industry despite his lack of prowess on the course. His background as a successful card counter in Las Vegas casinos and subsequent career in technology and innovation has brought him to a prominent role as Troon’s chief digital officer. Troon, the largest golf-course management company in the world, hired Ma in 2023 as part of their efforts to adapt to a changing market and leverage technology in the industry. Ma’s reputation as an innovative thinker and passion for golf made him a natural fit for the role.
Ma’s approach to revolutionizing the golf industry is rooted in questioning the status quo and identifying inefficiencies that can be addressed through technology. He recognized the need for improvements in areas such as tee-time reservations and check-in processes, which he believed could be streamlined and enhanced using digital tools. By applying a startup mentality within an established company like Troon, Ma aimed to drive innovation and improve the overall customer experience.
One of Ma’s first projects at Troon was the development of Troon Access, a rewards program designed to offer discounts and exclusive experiences to members at Troon courses. The program, which has already enrolled over 10,000 members, provides benefits such as tee-time savings, guest passes, and partner perks. Ma’s background in technology and innovation enabled him to quickly implement the program and grow its membership base.
Ma’s vision for the golf industry extends beyond rewards programs to encompass broader changes in how golf courses operate. He believes that courses can benefit from dynamic pricing, flexible playing options, and collaboration between properties to enhance the customer experience. By exploring new approaches to course management and marketing, Ma hopes to attract more players to the sport and improve the overall quality of the golfing experience.
Ma’s work at Troon has focused on leveraging technology to drive revenue growth and enhance customer engagement. By drawing on his experiences in the tech industry and his passion for golf, Ma aims to bring innovation to an industry that is ripe for disruption. Through initiatives like Troon Access and his broader vision for the future of golf, Ma is positioning himself as a leading figure in the industry and a driver of change.
Despite his own struggles on the golf course, Ma remains undeterred in his mission to transform the industry. With his combination of quantitative skills, entrepreneurial mindset, and passion for the sport, Ma is well-equipped to lead Troon into a new era of digital innovation and customer-focused initiatives. As he continues to challenge the status quo and push for change in the golf industry, Ma’s impact is likely to be felt for years to come.
