Katherine Palethorpe and Freddie Schmeisser appointed Managing Directors of the DP World Tour in the Middle East

The DP World Tour has announced two new Managing Directors for its Middle East region, appointing Katherine Palethorpe and Freddie Schmeisser to lead commercial partnerships and tournaments respectively from April 6. 

The appointments reflect the continued growth and strategic importance of the Middle East within the DP World Tour's global portfolio. The dual-leadership model strengthens dedicated focus across tournament delivery and commercial development, ensuring operational excellence and sustained partnership growth. 

Palethorpe will lead partnership strategy across the Middle East, focusing on long-term relationships, commercial innovation and sustainable growth. Schmeisser will oversee tournament and operational execution across the region, working closely with host venues, partners and stakeholders to deliver world-class events. 

Katherine Palethorpe said: "The region presents significant opportunity for partnership development and innovation. Our focus is on deepening existing relationships while identifying new opportunities that align with our long-term ambitions and deliver value for our partners." 

Freddie Schmeisser added: "The Middle East plays a central role in our global calendar and continues to evolve as a key strategic region. Our priority is to deliver consistently high standards across every tournament, strengthen collaboration with host partners and ensure we build on the strong platform already in place." 

The transition follows Tom Phillips' appointment as Chief Executive Officer of the Ladies European Tour, announced in early January and effective 6 April. The revised structure reinforces the DP World Tour's long-term commitment to the Middle East and provides continuity, experience and strategic clarity as the region enters its next phase of growth.