CELEBRATING THE FUTURE OF GROUNDS MANAGEMENT
We’re proud to launch GMA 35 under 35 - a new initiative, supported by ICL, recognising young professionals and volunteers who are making a real difference in the grounds management industry.
Grounds management is essential to the quality, safety and playability of green spaces - yet the work often goes unnoticed. The GMA 35 under 35 programme shines a light on individuals under the age of 35 who have demonstrated innovation, and dedication to the profession, whether in professional sport, community spaces or grassroots venues.
Backed by ICL, a global leader in turf and landscape solutions, the programme will offer more than just recognition. Those selected will gain access to technical and agronomic training developed by the GMA and ICL, alongside unique opportunities at SALTEX.
An expert panel will select 35 individuals who stand out for their contribution. These individuals will be profiled across GMA channels and wider industry media, giving them a platform to inspire the next generation of grounds professionals.
MEET THE JUDGES
Ryan Golding
- Head Groundsperson
- Leeds Rhinos
As a former member the GMA’s Young Board founding group, Ryan has gone on from strength to strength. After completing work experience at Arsenal FC at the age of 15, he applied for an apprenticeship at Leeds Rhinos (Rugby Football League). He has been at the club for over 20 years and is now Head Groundsman managing a team of four staff across training facilities, stadium and out-grounds, continually providing high-quality rugby league surfaces that encourage fast open professional play.
John Ledwidge
- Head of Grounds and Landscapes
- Manchester City Football Club
John began his career as an apprentice at Coventry City before returning as Grounds Manager and joining the first GMA Young Board cohort. As inaugural chair, he helped shape its evolution into GMA NextGen, supporting new talent in the industry. He has since held senior roles at Leicester City and is now Head of Grounds and Landscapes at Manchester City.
Jennifer Carter
- Director of Communications & Marketing
- Grounds Management Association
With over 14 years of experience across sports, entertainment and arts industries, Jennifer has led high-profile PR campaigns, sponsorships and brand strategy. At Liverpool FC, she delivered major projects and partner campaigns with Nike, AXA, and Standard Chartered. Previously at Juniper Sport, she supported global events and luxury brands. A CIPR Sports Network committee member, she now brings her expertise to GMA’s 35 under 35 judging panel, celebrating the industry’s rising stars and supporting future talent.
Dr Deborah Cox
- Managing Director & GMA Board Member
- Lagan Valley Scientific
Deborah is Managing Director of Lagan Valley Scientific, supporting turf managers and agronomists in over 30 countries with pest and disease consultancy. With a PhD in genetics behind osmotic stress response in plants, her 20-year career spans research at Queen’s University Belfast, the John Innes Centre, and the Agri-Food & Biosciences Institute. A GMA Board member, she brings scientific expertise and a passion for industry progress. She’s proud to support the 35 Under 35 initiative and celebrate emerging talent.
Julien Morris
- Senior Regional Pitch Advisor (Football)
- Grounds Management Association
Julien spent the first decade of his career at Coventry City Football Club, five of those as Head of Grounds before moving to the GMA in 2018. Julien works within the Pitch Advisory Service supporting the Football Foundation in delivery of their Grass Pitch Improvement programme which aims to support and fund improvements to playing surfaces from local authority pitches through to the National League. Aswell as being a grounds volunteer at his local cricket club for over 20 years, Julien is also a youth cricket coach.
Dr Iain James
- Head of Facilities Services
- The England and Wales Cricket Board
Dr Iain James is Head of Facilities Services at the England and Wales Cricket Board, leading efforts to deliver safe, inclusive and sustainable cricket facilities nationwide. With over 25 years’ experience, his career spans academic research, consultancy and design. He previously served as Technical Director at TGMS and as Senior Lecturer at Cranfield University. A respected speaker on sports facility design, Iain also volunteers as head grounds manager at his local community cricket club.
Phil Collinson
- Northwest Key Account and Business Development Manager
- ICL
Phil is the Northwest Key Account and Business Development Manager for ICL in their Turf and Landscape business. Having spent almost 10 years as a Head Groundsman in professional sport he subsequently joined ICL in 2015. He has both BASIS and FACTS advisor qualifications to his name as well as progressing to become an examiner for BASIS. He is highly passionate about the industry and takes pride in being progressive in his advice to turf managers.
Chris Hunter
- Regional Pitch Advisor (Football)
- Grounds Management Association
Chris is a seasoned turfgrass professional with nearly 20 years’ experience in the sports turf and green space sector. As Regional Pitch Advisor for the GMA, he supports grassroots football across the North-East and Yorkshire. With a background in teaching and apprenticeships, he combines academic knowledge, soon completing a BSc (Hons) in Sports Turf Management & Science, with hands-on expertise. A former lecturer at Askham Bryan College, Chris is dedicated to developing future industry talent.
