Royal Aberdeen Golf Club — ranked among the world’s top 70 courses — is undergoing a transformation powered by modern equipment and forward-thinking leadership.
In 2024, after more than 20 years progressing through the ranks at Nairn Dunbar Golf Club, Richard Johnstone stepped into a new role as course manager at one of the game’s most storied links venues. Since his arrival, he’s spearheading a dynamic programme that honours tradition while adapting to the evolving needs of modern golf.
Richard’s appointment was a natural next step in a career built on experience, planning, and strategic insight. During the recruitment process, he stood out with a comprehensive redevelopment proposal that evaluated everything from turf conditions to machinery, illustrating how the course could move from excellence to even greater heights.
From day one, he’s focused on both sustainability and presentation. A top priority was upgrading the club’s ageing machinery fleet, which had begun to impact efficiency. After a period of trials and input from staff, the club committed to a five-year lease deal for a full range of John Deere equipment — a decision that is already yielding results.
The new machinery line-up includes walk-behind greens mowers, fairway units, utility vehicles, compact tractors, and a state-of-the-art GPS sprayer. Although still relatively new, the technology has made an immediate impact, enhancing both performance and team morale.
Digital tools are now embedded into daily routines. Using the John Deere Operations Center, Richard and his team can accurately track machine usage, plan maintenance, and monitor operational data. This information is managed by the club’s dedicated in-house mechanic, who ensures equipment is maintained at peak condition.
Beyond machinery, Richard puts a strong focus on empowering his team through education and communication. Staff are actively encouraged to make use of soil sensors, moisture meters, and weather-tracking apps—tools that are becoming increasingly vital for modern course management.
Richard’s approach is informed in part by his experience at TPC Sawgrass in 2017, when he joined the BIGGA volunteer programme sponsored by John Deere. That opportunity, he says, helped fuel his passion for cutting-edge turf care and elite course preparation.
Staffing remains a challenge at Royal Aberdeen, with just 10 full-time greenkeepers responsible for both the main course and the adjacent Aberdeen Ladies Course. However, Richard is already beginning to expand the team, with plans in place to steadily grow the workforce to meet rising visitor demand.
“There’s no off-season here,” says Richard. “From early spring, we welcome golfers from around the world—many of whom have travelled great distances and invested heavily in their visit. The course must reflect that level of commitment.”
Looking to the future, Royal Aberdeen is collaborating with renowned golf architects on a five-year improvement plan, which will address course development as well as environmental threats such as coastal erosion. Sustainability will be central to these efforts.
The investment in modern equipment is part of that sustainability vision. The GPS sprayer minimises chemical use by applying treatments with pinpoint accuracy, while features such as electric reel motors on the greens mowers help cut fuel consumption.
These improvements complement the club’s existing GEO certification and solar energy initiatives, reinforcing Royal Aberdeen’s commitment to being both a premier playing destination and a responsible environmental guardian.
Upcoming major events will also serve as milestones for the club’s ongoing progress. The Scottish Amateur Championship is set for 2026, while plans are in motion for a flagship event to celebrate Royal Aberdeen’s 250th anniversary in 2030.
For Richard, these are significant moments—but part of a much broader mission.
“It’s about elevating everything—our team, our practices, and the course itself,” he says. “With the right tools, and the right mindset, there’s no reason we can’t set a new benchmark for links golf.”