2011 40 Under Forty: Michael Higgins
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, Professional Golfers Association, New England Division
Company location: Boylston
Residence: Shrewsbury
Favorite movie: "Caddy Shack": Be the ball.
Age: 36
Career highlights: I began my career with the PGA of America as an intern for the New England Section in 1996. In 1997, after I graduated from college, I was hired as the New England PGA’s first junior golf manager. I became the tournament director in 2000 and was promoted to director of tournament operations in 2005 to oversee the entire tournament department. On Jan. 1, I was officially promoted to executive director of the New England PGA.
Community involvement: I formed a company in 2005 to consult and assist charities in raising money through event planning. We have helped 75 charities raise more than $250,000 for their causes.
Biggest success: I would say that my biggest success professionally would be starting my career with the New England PGA as a summer intern and advancing through the ranks to become the executive director.
Biggest challenge: My biggest challenge professionally has been keeping a single-digit handicap. Many people make the statement to me, “I bet you play golf all the time because you are in the golf industry.” That could not be further from the truth. The rounds of golf that I play now are so sporadic that I struggle to shoot the scores I once did. I feel like Bruce Springsteen could add another verse to his song “Glory Days” about my glory days on the links. Even though I may not have a lot of opportunity to play golf, I find that when I do get the chance, I enjoy every second that I am on the golf course. Playing a round of golf is now a treat and a lot of fun.
Mentor: My father has always been my mentor. I would not be where I am today if it was not for his efforts and dedication. He introduced me to golf, taught me how to play it, and showed me that it is larger than just a game. He would say you can tell a lot about a person by how they act on a golf course. He used golf to teach me the definition of work ethic, integrity and sportsmanship. I have been able to apply these lessons in all aspects of my life both personally and professionally. Unfortunately my father now suffers from dementia and I am not sure if he will ever know just how much he has inspired me.
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