McDonald & Sons founder Chip McDonald passes the torch to his sons

(From left to right) Erik McDonald, Chip McDonald and John McDonald II. (Photo: McDonald & Sons)

McDonald & Sons — a Maryland-based golf course construction firm — named John McDonald II as its next president and CEO. John succeeds his father, Chip McDonald, who founded the firm nearly 40 years ago.

In conjunction with John McDonald II’s promotion, Erik McDonald becomes vice president and COO of the company.

“The time was right,” said John. “Dad has been wintering in Florida for the past few years, so Erik and I had already been running the business side while Dad managed our equipment fleet. The construction business has become more complex and it’s a lot to handle. He was ready to get out from underneath that.”

Over the last 38 years, McDonald & Sons says it has completed more than 1,900 golf course projects, including new construction, renovations and remodeling.

“We’re going to continue to provide the kind of high-quality, professional work the company has been known for since he got started in 1984,” said Erik. “My dad’s values — quality, trust and professionalism — are why I think we’ll continue to prosper. Everything we do goes toward bettering the game of golf and the land it’s played on.”

Chip will step into an emeritus role while his wife Betty will continue as the company’s secretary/treasurer. He will also continue operating Chesapeake Specialty Equipment, which provides dumpers, forklifts and telehandlers to construction firms — including the one now run by his sons.

John will also continue in his role as president of the Golf Course Builders Association of America.