There are numerous roles for women within the golf industry. Here we talk to Maria Bonzagni, Senior Director of Marketing and Development – FJ Gloves and Accessories.
There are a variety of roles for women within the golf industry. Here we talk to Maria Bonzagni, the Senior Director of Marketing and Development – FJ Gloves and Accessories.
W&G ask the questions!
HOW LONG HAVE YOU WORKED IN THE GOLF INDUSTRY?
I started off in the golf industry in 1978, working at Thomson Country Club in North Reading, Massachusetts, before undertaking a joint degree in Marketing and in Management at Bentley University in 1987. I joined Acushnet in 1990 as a Sales Support Representative and have held a number of global positions across the product range since then, including Product Manager for Golf Footwear, Director of Marketing – FJ Gloves, Outerwear & Accessories and now Senior Director of Marketing and Development – FJ Gloves & Accessories
WHAT DOES YOUR ROLE INVOLVE?
I oversee the global golf glove and golf sock marketing and product development for the FootJoy brand.
AS MORE SIMPLE ITEMS, HOW DIFFICULT IS IT TO MARKET GLOVES, SOCKS AND ACCESSORIES?
When you have a passion for golf and the dedicated commitment along with an amazingly strong team, we understand that it is critical to keep our eye on the glove and sock business and remain steadfast in our search for new, innovative technologies to stay ahead of the competition. The FootJoy brand, more specifically the StaSof glove franchise, is one of the longest running brands in golf. When you have that in your corner, you have a tremendous franchise and platform in which to grow.
HOW HAS THE GOLF GLOVE BUSINESS CHANGED IN RECENT YEARS AND WHAT CHALLENGES DO YOU FACE?
We must continue to educate the golfer about the importance of wearing a glove, as an essential piece of equipment for their game. 95% of the Golf Professionals worldwide wear a glove. Approximately 80 to 85% of avid golfers understand the importance of wearing a golf glove. The golf glove is the closest piece of equipment between the golfer and the golf club. The more we educate that gloves are essential to improve feel, grip, reduces grip pressure, manages moisture, prevents blisters and calluses and ultimately provides more control of the golf club, the golfer will ultimately perform better and have better control of the club to hit more consistent golf shots.
ARE THERE TECHNICAL ADVANCES COMING THROUGH IN THE PRODUCT RANGE AND IF SO, WHAT ARE THEY?
FootJoy brought technology and innovation to gloves, revolutionising the market in 1980, and has been the undisputed industry leader since 1983. The technical innovation today involves the use blended materials of leather and synthetic combinations, high-tech fabrics, such as NanoLock Nanofiber for performance grip and breathability, new construction methods to provide better fit and greater comfort and bold colours to accent today’s golfer fashion interests.
WHAT IS YOUR MOST SATISFYING ACHIEVEMENT IN THIS ROLE TO DATE?
In 1994, I was passed the baton from Ed Conathan and Bill Tarlow, the founder of the StaSof glove in 1980, and was privileged to lead the category with a tremendous team in Thailand and US headquarters. Today, we have sold over 250 Million gloves worldwide and our glove business has never been stronger. The commitment, dedication and passion in 1980 remains steadfast today. My greatest satisfaction is seeing the FJ glove brand reach new heights with new technologies and innovation to satisfy the millions of golfers across the glove. Personally, my most satisfying achievement is being a mum and mentor to my son, Jack. He is truly an inspiration to me every day.
DO YOU PLAY GOLF?
Yes. I started playing golf when I was 12 and competed locally in the state of Massachusetts. I was very fortunate to play competitively at a high level. Golf has been a part of my life for over 35 years. I thoroughly enjoy the game and most importantly, bringing new players into the game. It is important for all of us to grow this great game that teaches you so many life lessons: dedication, commitment, honour, overcoming challenges, competitive spirit, humility, and team work.
