
Our Leadership Team
Boasting centuries of collective expertise across diverse industries, our C-Suite Executive team stands as a formidable assembly of industry leaders.

Jose Manuel Anderson
Chairman and Founder
Jose Manuel Anderson, an entrepreneur, began his journey to success at a young age, developing a passion for golf at just seven years old. By age 10, he was already competing in tournaments throughout Florida. His love for the sport eventually led him to coaching, where he mentored young players while continuing to excel on the course. Additionally, Jose took the initiative to establish several golf teams from the ground up across Los Angeles, cultivating new talent and contributing to the growth of the local golf community.
Jose's early career in the entertainment industry was marked by his ability to form meaningful connections. He befriended a number of influential social media creators who recognized his vision and played a significant role in his rise as one of the fastest-growing and most successful investors in the digital space. His entrepreneurial acumen and strong relationships with content creators positioned him as a key figure in talent management and investment, leading to his rapid success.
Building on his achievements, Jose founded Newman ETAPs (formerly AndersonWorks), an entertainment powerhouse, at just 18 years old. Under his leadership, the company flourished and was ultimately acquired for $28 million in 2023. He was recognized as a Global Talent Partner by leading agencies such as Endeavor, William Morris Entertainment, and United Talent Agency. Expanding his influence further, he founded NewSwing, where he has successfully built strategic partnerships and positioned the organization as an international leader in both the sports and entertainment sectors.
Now serving as Chairman, Jose's exceptional networking skills, industry insight, and dedication continue to propel NewSwing Academies to new heights, reinforcing his legacy as a distinguished leader in both business and golf.
Mike Thompson
Chief Executive Officer and Board Member
Mike climbed the ranks to become the VP/Director of Partnerships for CAA Sports APAC, later transitioning to a prominent role at Endeavor where he served as an Executive for nearly nine years. During his tenure at CAA, Mike fostered robust connections and brokered lucrative deals, while at Endeavor, he orchestrated significant partnerships, including a multi-million dollar collaboration between Newman ETAPs and Endeavor Group Holdings. He founded Nonpareil Traveling, a travel company that operated for nearly 17 years before being sold for $17.9 million. At NewSwing Academies, Mike's leadership as Executive VP of Operations propelled the transformative NewSwing Europe Expansion Project. This initiative aimed to democratize golf education across Europe, establishing a network of premier venues, organizing high-profile events, and forging strategic alliances to redefine the landscape of golf instruction. Today, as CEO of NewSwing Academies, Mike remains dedicated to driving the company's mission forward, blending strategic foresight with operational acumen to deliver unmatched experiences and opportunities in golf education and training.
Elizabeth Hernandez
Chief Operating Officer and Board Member
Elizabeth Hernandez boasts a 27-year career in the entertainment industry, with an impressive track record across major companies such as CNN, Fox Corporation, and Endeavor, where she advanced to executive roles. Her extensive industry experience and deep network have played a pivotal role in expanding NewSwing's Talent Acquisition Partnerships, driving significant growth and strategic collaborations.
In addition to her corporate success, Elizabeth founded Hernandez Enterprises, an entertainment company that she led for 15 years. Under her leadership, the company expanded to nine offices and became a highly lucrative venture, ultimately selling for $11.5 million in 2023. Elizabeth's expertise continues to be instrumental in shaping the future of NewSwing Academies as she brings her vast knowledge and industry connections to the table.
Mark Anderson
Vice-Chair of the Board of Directors
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Anthony Elliot
Treasurer of the Board of Directors
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Aaron Marron
Chief Financial Officer
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Chief Security Officer
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Marisa Werkhoven
Chief Technology Officer
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Ali Malik
Chief Marketing Officer
Executive Vice President of Cairo
Brandon Lucas
Chief Compliance Officer
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Spencer Laurier
Chief Experience Officer
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Jacqueline Stockholm
Chief People Officer
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Jennifer Barlowe
Human Resources Executive
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Chief Strategy Officer
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Sarah Cohen
Executive Vice President of HQ Operations​
Donna White
Senior Vice President of Partnerships
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Matej Fiala
Executive Director of Partnerships
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Ryan Katz
Executive Vice President of Global Business Development
Armin Hoffman
Executive Vice President of Europe
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Lukas Eggar
Executive Vice President of USA
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Marek Bartos
Executive Vice President of Entertainment
Niran Thepnakorn
Vice President of Asia
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Maria Brown
Vice President of Media
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Lauren Greyer
Vice President of Sales
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Alexandra Jackman
Vice President of Golf Programs and Academies
Natalie Armour
Vice President of Central and South America
Sterling Fairbourne
Vice President of North America
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Amelie Müller
Vice President of Europe
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Director of Youth Services
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Director of Customer Success
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Ewan Edwards
Director of Expansions
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Rissa Cao
Director of Training Programs
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Director of Education
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Director of Vision
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Director of North America
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Director of Real Estate Development
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Director of Content Creation
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Executive Assistant​
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