New LLP SMS SPORTS CONSULTING GROUP has been launched with a mission to raise the bar in sports marketing and deliver transformational outcomes for brands, rights holders and events.

To coincide with the launch, SMS SCG has announced a major golf consultancy project with the Ladies European Tour (LET) to explore a new vision for women’s professional golf. SMS SCG will now be focused on developing a new strategic plan to create a vibrant and successful programme leading to long term growth and commercial success.

The launch of SMS SCG is the brainchild of Stephen Proctor, Chairman of Sports Marketing Surveys Inc, the renowned market research and insights business which he founded in 1984. SMS SCG will draw on this data-driven expertise across their client projects.

The new venture will be led by Proctor, alongside 10 partners including; Phil Anderton, John Bushell, Carlos Cantó, Roddy Carr, Kimberly Kriss, Jon Parsons, Archie Paton, Ken Schofield, Ian Thompson and David Watt.

Proctor said: “The group has a unique perspective drawn from an unrivalled breadth and depth of executive level experience in a range of sports.

“Their hands on experience, coupled with our validated insights and proprietary data are a special combination, supporting informed and effective decision making that give our clients a distinct advantage.

“Crucially the team are also sharp, savvy thinkers who challenge the industry status quo and are honest and direct about challenges faced and the solutions needed.”

Ladies European Tour Executive Chairman Mark Lichtenhein said: “The timing of this consultation project could not be better, following the launch of The R&A’s Women In Golf Charter, which aims to increase the number of women and girls playing and working in golf over the next 10 years. As a signatory of the Charter, and as the major aspirational brand for women’s golf in Europe, showcasing the brightest talent, the Ladies European Tour will play a central role in the process of also identifying new avenues and opportunities for the professional game. We are delighted to be collaborating with such an experienced group as part of an ambitious vision for the game.”

Martin Slumbers, Chief Executive of The R&A, said, “There is a tremendous opportunity to achieve growth in golf if we can increase participation levels among women and families. The benefits will be felt at all levels of the sport and the Women in Golf Charter sets out a vision for making golf more inclusive and appealing for women. We must also ensure that we have a strong, vibrant women’s professional game and this consultation project is an important initiative to help ensure it achieves its full potential. We are committed to doing all we can to support women’s and girls’ golf from grassroots through to the professional level.”

The new company will operate internationally, with headquarters in the UK.