Laguna Lăng Cô welcomes our new Director of Golf, Mr. Stephen Banks who is a British PGA Manager for 20 years & also a Member of CMAE Club Managers’ Association Europe, CMDip.
Mr. Stephen Banks is no stranger to the global golf scene, having dedicated himself to the PGA, the organization that orchestrates professional golf tournaments in the UK, and having served at elite hotel and resort brands such as The Ritz-Carlton, Fairmont Hotels, and Privates Castle Estates, catering to UHNWI clients. Now, he is set to continue his journey at Laguna Lăng Cô’s 18-hole, par-71 championship course, a masterpiece crafted by the legendary Sir Nick Faldo
With over two decades with the PGA and as a CMDip member, Stephen is bringing to Laguna Lăng Cô not just management expertise but also a deep understanding of the art and culture of golf from his international projects. His profound insights into the golf resort industry and international work experience provide him with a holistic and nuanced perspective on golf course management.
Having previously spent four years in Vietnam at Tam Dao Golf Resort, Sea Links Vietnam, and Vietnam Golf & Country Club, and having witnessed the country’s significant advancements over the past 15 years, Mr. Banks has decided to return to his second home. Entrusting his passion for golf development to Laguna Lăng Cô, he also takes time to unwind with family, savoring fine wines and immersing himself in opera music, which serves not only as a lifestyle balance but also as an endless source of inspiration.
When asked about his vision for the development of Laguna Lăng Cô’s golf course in the near future, Mr. Banks candidly shared:
“With the unpredictable monsoon weather in Central Vietnam, the first thing I’m focusing on is improving the drainage system to prevent flooding during the rainy season. Thanks to Sir Nick Faldo’s excellent design, Laguna’s turf drains quite quickly and avoids waterlogging.
The upcoming Faldo Asia Grand Final is another major event that I will prioritize and invest more in. My long-term plan is to attract both amateurs and professional golfers to Laguna Golf Lăng Cô. As a PGA member, I see potential here that many other courses do not have.”
In his new role at Laguna Lăng Cô, Mr. Banks aims to not only maintain but also enhance the service quality and experience at the golf club. He anticipates improvements in the technical aspects of the course, from turf maintenance to widening pathways for golfers. Additionally, he focuses on elevating the golf course’s culinary offerings with contributions from Chef Hue Pham and exquisite dishes from new Korean chefs in Faldo’s 67 Bar. Furthermore, Mr. Banks brings strategic vision to the course, with plans such as ‘The Calver Cup,’ a unique Singles Matchplay event exclusively for members, set to debut in January 2024.
Compared to other countries, Mr. Banks notes that golf in Vietnam has its unique characteristics. Vietnamese investors are not hesitant to invest substantially in crafting top-notch golf products, paying attention to the smallest details. The cost-effectiveness of Vietnam makes it an attractive destination for golfers worldwide.
Beyond golf, our resort boasts premium services such as Banyan Tree, Angsana, and Laguna Parkside Residence, from private beaches to an impressive swimming pool, and authentic Vietnamese & international cuisine. Every service is meticulously curated to provide the finest personal experience for our guests.
Mr. Banks and our team are also ready for the peak golf season with thorough preparations and special plans to show appreciation to our guests and staff. We are expanding our horizons to international markets with the hope of bringing joyous and prosperous experiences to our guests during the upcoming holidays in Vietnam.
