Apes Hill Barbados has named Killian Cullen its new Director of Golf, adding an accomplished golf professional with experience at prestigious clubs in Ireland and Canada to lead the golf operation at one of the Caribbean’s most acclaimed luxury resort and residential communities.
Originally from Ireland, Cullen joins Apes Hill from Point Grey Golf & Country Club in Vancouver, British Columbia, where he served as Senior Associate Golf Professional since 2022. Previously, he was Senior Assistant Professional at Portmarnock Golf Club in Dublin, one of the world’s most respected links venues.
Cullen brings a broad skill set encompassing golf operations, instruction and player development, member and guest relations, team leadership and tournament management. An accomplished player and instructor, he embraces technology-driven coaching while earning a reputation throughout his career for his organization, work ethic and ability to build strong relationships with members, guests and colleagues.
“Taking the role at Apes Hill Barbados was never about the title,” Cullen said. “It was the opportunity for growth, both personally and professionally, and the chance to contribute to the continued growth of Apes Hill. I’ve been fortunate to learn at exceptional clubs throughout my career, and I’m tremendously excited about what is being built here and the opportunity to be part of it.”
Cullen assumes responsibility for a golf operation that has grown significantly in stature and scope. Its centerpiece is the Ron Kirby-designed 18-hole championship course, ranked among the Top 100 courses internationally, complemented by Little Apes, a 9-hole short course; the island-green 19th hole; and the Golf Performance Centre, where advanced technology supports instruction, practice and player development.
He will also play an integral role in the annual Legends Tour event hosted at Apes Hill by Ian Woosnam, the Masters champion, former World No. 1 and Ryder Cup legend.
Cullen arrives during a period of increasing international recognition for Apes Hill. GOLF Magazine recently included the property among its Top 100 Golf Resorts in the World, describing the honorees as elite destinations offering “singular experiences.” The publication also recognized Apes Hill for “Best Lodging” among the Top 100 resorts.
“Killian possesses the combination of golf expertise, leadership ability and genuine people skills we were seeking for this important position,” said Sunil Chatrani, Apes Hill Barbados, Executive Chairman. “He has worked and learned within exceptional golf environments, but what impressed us equally was his ambition, humility and desire to continue developing as a leader. He understands that a great golf operation is ultimately about people and experiences, and we believe he is an excellent fit for Apes Hill.”
Cullen’s responsibilities will extend beyond golf to include involvement with Apes Hill’s racquet sports, wellness and other lifestyle offerings, reflecting the resort’s evolution as a destination where golf anchors a much broader luxury experience.
Set across 475 acres in the elevated hills of St. James, Apes Hill combines championship golf with residences and villas, wellness, hiking, tennis and Padel, a private beach club and a strong commitment to environmental stewardship. Its championship golf course is Audubon International certified for environmental and sustainability best practices. For more information, please visit apeshill.com
