Meet the Team / Ed Saxel

You've been part of Mint Greens from the start - how did the business come to be?

James Rogers and I ran a golf marketing platform prior to Mint Greens, and we were aware of how trends in corporate golf were changing. We came up with the concept of an executive service built on a portfolio model and approached some top clubs we had existing relationships with – all said 'yes' and that was it, we were up and running.

Talk us through your role at Mint Greens?

I was always the natural fit to look after the service delivery side, being the most experienced on the clubs and courses, and having held a similar role in my time at Wentworth. I now oversee daily activity within the Concierge Team (albeit they don’t need me that much!), but also look after the larger events, trips, and hospitality.

Which clubs have been on the portfolio since the start?

It’s hard to recall, to be honest, but I think we started with around 15 clubs. Woburn Golf Club , The Grove , WALTON HEATH GOLF CLUB , London Golf Club , and Worplesdon Golf Club , to name a few. We always wanted to give a variety based on location, style, and price, but it’s grown to become a top quality portfolio, spread all over the country, and one that we believe caters for all.

As Concierge Director, which clubs in the portfolio do you consider hidden gems?

I don’t think there are many hidden gems now, as everyone seems to know them! However, we have just started working with #CrowboroughBeacon, which I’ve always thought is an underrated course, so I hope clients give that a try. Further afield, Wallasey Golf Club is superb, Little Aston Golf Club is one of the best parkland courses around, and I was really impressed by a recent visit to #EastRenfrewshire.

Most memorable MG moment?

Playing Royal St George’s Golf Club the day after The Open finished in 2021 with James and Alfie Jones . Back tees, grandstands up, a perfect summer’s day, and one of my favourite venues. If shooting 100’s can ever be fun, this was it. An amazing memory.

What golf courses are still on your bucket list?

Good question. I’ve been lucky enough to have played a lot of top courses, but there’s still a few to tick off. In the UK, I’d love to do the full day experience at #Muirfield, plus the Irish pair of Waterville Golf Links , and Ballybunion Golf Club . For something further afield, a trip to Bandon Dunes Golf Resort looks incredible, and I’d love to do the Melbourne Sandbelt courses. Oh, and Golf de Morfontaine in France. I could go on!

Who do you consider to be the best golfer at Mint Greens?

That’s not easy to answer these days! There’s no doubt Charlie Hickling is a quality player, but new recruit Danny Chapman has just got his amateur status back, and has a similarly obscene handicap. But to steer the answer another way, I’ve never cared whether I play with a pro or a complete beginner (part of the beauty of golf), I just like playing with a good bunch of people.