Month: January 2024

Michael Leemhuis, CCM, CCE, Master PGA, CMAA Fellow, Joins as a Partner of the Firm

Date:

GGA Partners, a ClubWorks company, announced today that Michael Leemhuis, M.A. Ed, CCM, CCE, Master PGA, CMAA Fellow, has expanded his role within the ClubWorks network and joined GGA Partners support the growth of the Executive Search Practice.

As a Partner at GGA Partners, Leemhuis will be focused on growing the firm’s executive search and people services practice. In his role, Michael will leverage the firms leading recruiting practices, along with his vast network of contacts to find and place top-level talent.

“Michael’s experience in the golf and private club industry will be a tremendous asset to GGA,” commented Managing Director and Partner Michael Gregory.  “His experience managing elite private clubs, coupled with his experience recruiting candidates for top clubs over the past five years, will help GGA continue to deliver the highest quality executive search services to clients.”

Leemhuis will continue in his role at ClubWorks as Chairman & Chief Executive Officer as the organization continues adding to its growing platform of leading service providers to the private club, resort, and hospitality industries.

Michael will be based in the West Palm Beach office. He can be reached via email at michael.leemhuis@ggapartners.com.

Executive Search: General Manager for The Sutter Club

Date:

General Manager
THE SUTTER CLUB

Position Title:  General Manager

Reporting:  Board of Directors

Location:  Sacramento

Website: www.sutterclub.org

Annual Base Salary Range:  $225,000 to $275,000

CLUB OVERVIEW

The Sutter Club is a private membership club across from the California State Capitol that has been part of the Sacramento community for more than 130 years.  The Sutter Club facilities were designed, funded, and built by the Members. It opened to great fanfare in January 1930. The Sutter Club was awarded a Building of Distinction in Sacramento by the Office of Historic Preservation and is now listed on the National Registry of Historic Places. A separate Foundation has been established to protect and preserve the facilities.

Mission Statement:

The Sutter Club provides a sophisticated and inviting gathering place for Members, their families, and their guests to enjoy comradery, relaxation, fine cuisine, honored traditions and unrivaled service.

Vision Statement:

Guided by its rich history and an ever-evolving membership of accomplished professionals and community leaders, the Sutter Club is the premier, multi-generational private social club in the Sacramento region, offering Members and guests a refuge from daily demands: well-appointed facilities; state of the area amenities exceptional dining options; stellar events; and highly personalized service.

Services and Membership

Generations of families have made membership a tradition.  Membership is by invitation only. Some of the benefits of membership include beautifully maintained dining areas, a Members-only bar, wonderful annual events, entertaining family events and a private setting in the very heart of Sacramento.

The Future – Growing and Retaining Members

The Sutter Club is driven by a vision of smart and sustainable membership growth. With a strategic objective of achieving high rates of Member satisfaction, increasing Member usage, financial stability and new Member attraction, the Sutter Club is committed to pursuing opportunities that will enhance its facilities, product and service delivery, and membership.

The Sacramento Region

One of the most historic cities in California, Sacramento is home to the State Capital and is located at the confluence of the Sacramento and American Rivers in the northern portion of California’s expansive Central Valley. From trendy urban apartments to expansive foothill homes, Greater Sacramento offers a variety of lifestyle options, and is known as America’s Farm-to-Fork Capital.

THE OPPORTUNITY

The General Manager (“GM”) oversees all aspects of the Club including its governance, operations, fiscal sustainability, social activities and the relationships between the Club and its Board of Directors, members, guests, employees, service providers, community, government and industry.

This position is accountable to the Board of Directors for the implementation of Club policies and directives and recommends any changes needed in administration, operations or policy. The GM serves as an ex-officio member (i.e. non-voting member of) all Board committees.

Other principal responsibilities include:

 

  • Ensure Financial Stability and Operational Performance: Takes primary responsibility for the development and adherence to the Club’s annual budget, long-term business plan, forecasting and reporting according to the budget calendar. Analyzes financial operations in real time, reviews and analyzes financial statements, manages cash flow, and establishes controls to safeguard funds, reviewing variances, identifies performance risks and takes effective corrective action as required.
  • Visible Role of Leadership and Collaboration: Be present at major events, be the face of the Club within the community and build personal and professional credibility by developing collaborative, positive and trustworthy relationships with the Board of Directors, Members, and staff.
  • Manage Club Operations: Plans, develops, and approves specific operational policies, programs, procedures, and methods in concert with general policies. Consistently assures that the Club is operated in accordance with all applicable local, state, and federal laws,
  • Maintain Club Facilities: Oversees the care and maintenance of all the Club’s physical assets and facilities. Provides advice and recommendations to the President and Club committees about construction, alterations, maintenance, materials, supplies, equipment, and services not provided in approved plans and/or budgets.
  • Supports Membership Growth: Develop and implement strategies to attract new Members to the Club. Collaborate with the Members to create campaigns aimed at increasing membership. Welcomes new Club Members and provides orientation focused on culture and club history.
  • Event Planning and Execution: Take a hands-on approach in planning and executing major Club events. Ensure that events are well-coordinated, exceed Member and guest expectations, and contribute to the Club’s overall success.
  • Technology Integration: Stay abreast of technological advancements relevant to Club management. Implement and oversee the integration of technology solutions for improved Member services, reservations, and overall club operations.
  • Risk Management: Identify potential risks to the Club and implement risk management strategies. This includes ensuring compliance with safety regulations, overseeing security measures, and addressing any potential legal or liability issues.
  • Member Feedback and Satisfaction: Develop and implement mechanisms for gathering member feedback. Use this feedback to improve Club services, amenities, facilities, and Member satisfaction continuously.
  • Sustainability Initiatives: Explore and implement environmentally friendly practices within the Club’s operations. This may include waste reduction, energy efficiency, and sustainable materials sourcing.
  • Staff Development and Training: Establish programs for ongoing staff training and development. Foster a positive and inclusive work environment, promoting teamwork and professional growth among Club employees. This includes overseeing the personnel policies, initiating, and monitoring policies relating to personnel actions, training, regulatory compliance, and professional development programs.
  • Crisis Management: Develop contingency plans for emergency situations and crisis management. Ensure that staff are trained and prepared to respond effectively to unexpected events.
  • Public Relations: Act as a spokesperson for the Club in media interactions. Develop and maintain positive relationships with local media outlets to enhance the Club’s public image. Responsible for external relations including webpage and social media.
  • Professional Development: Maintains Club Managers Association of America (CMAA) membership and other professional associations, attending conferences and meetings to keep abreast of current information and developments in the private Club management field. Participates in professional activities to enhance the prestige of the Club.

 

 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

  • A post-secondary degree in business, hospitality, or a related discipline is preferred.
  • Minimum of 7 years progressive responsibility managing as a senior leader in a City Club or similar setting.
  • Experience in a hospitality industry beneficial experience reporting to a Board that has adopted a club governance structure and processes to lead the Club and GM to success.
  • Experience in collective bargaining, labor relations, and negotiating contracts.
  • A Certified Club Manager designation (CCM) is preferred.

 SKILL REQUIREMENTS 

  • An entrepreneurial style combined with a background in all aspects of business management, including business development, finance, information technology, human resources, risk management and performance management.
  • A self-starter with a results-oriented work style combined with excellent verbal and written communication and interpersonal skills demonstrated with all the Club’s stakeholders.
  • Deep understanding of operational financials, proven success with revenue growth and cost management.
  • Must have the ability to define and consistently execute a quality food and dining operation.
  • Tech savvy with experience in email communications, computer software, general knowledge of website use for marketing and membership interactions.
  • Strong problem solving and business development skill, ability to exercise sound judgement and make timely decisions.

REPORTING STRUCTURE 

The position reports to the Board of Directors through the Club President

DIRECT REPORTS 

Executive Chef; Member Services Supervisor; Controller; Catering Manager; Facilities Engineer; Food & Beverage Director

COMPENSATION 

The Sutter Club will offer a very attractive compensation package, commensurate with experience, which will include a competitive base salary (listed above), bonus opportunity and benefits.

INQUIRIES:

IMPORTANT: Interested candidates should submit a resume along with a detailed cover letter which addresses the qualifications and describes your alignment/experience with the prescribed position by February 17, 2024. The documents must be saved as a PDF (save as “Last Name, First Name, Sutter Club) and email to: execsearchus@ggapartners.com.

 

Lead Search Consultants: 

Colin Burns, Director

GGA Partners, LLC.

Colin.Burns@ggapartners.com

 

Dee Anna Clarke, Director

GGA Partners, LLC.

DeeAnna.Clarke@ggapartners.com

 

 

Executive Search: General Manager for Earl Grey Golf Club

Date:

General Manager
Earl Grey Golf Club

 

History:

Earl Grey was founded in 1919 by Major Duncan Stuart, a practicing city lawyer, who organized a group of people interested in playing golf. The original course, which consisted of five holes, was located on land leased from the C.P.R., south of and adjacent to the Earl Grey Public School in the Mount Royal district. The Club moved on two occasions, and in 1932, a twenty-year lease was negotiated with the City of Calgary for the present site. The Club continues to lease the land from the City of Calgary pursuant to a long-term agreement.

Rejuvenation and Transition:

Improvements were made to the courses and clubhouse over the years leading to a transition to the current club designed to meet member expectations for the entire family. By 2019, the Club had completed construction of a new clubhouse, turf care facility and club storage building and significantly renovated the golf course just before celebrating its 100th anniversary. The Club continues to assess capital needs and is currently preparing a master plan for the golf course. The Club has a full waiting list, as demand for golf in Calgary, and in particular for the Earl Grey experience, is very high.

In 2023, Earl Grey was selected to be the host of the 2024 CPKC Women’s Open from July 22 to July 28.  Preparations for the event are in full swing with the cooperation of Golf Canada, the LPGA, and the City of Calgary.

Earl Grey will continue as one of Calgary’s premiere Golf Clubs and a preferred choice of many for years to come.  The new General Manager has an opportunity to be a part of the Club’s exciting future.

Mission Statement: To provide an excellent golf club offering a friendly, year-round golf and social experience for all members and their families, with a high level of service, while acting as good members of the community.

ABOUT THE CLUB:

Club Facilities

  • 18-hole championship golf course
  • 9-hole Lakeview Par 3 course
  • HD indoor golf simulators
  • SAM PuttLab
  •  Premium clubhouse including:
    • Dining, lounge, and bar areas
    • Private event and meeting spaces
    • New and well-appointed locker rooms

Club Overview

  • Total members: 1,400
  • Total Shareholders: 559
  • Initiation fee: $56,000
  • Annual dues: $5,100
  • Capital dues: $500
  • Annual dues revenue: $4.2MM
  • Gross revenue: $10.0MM
  • F&B revenue: $2.8MM
  • Rounds of golf annually: 30,000
  • Full-time equivalent employees: 100-150, depending on season.
  • Peak season total employees:  220

THE POSITION

We are looking for a General Manager (GM) reporting to the Board to oversee the entire Club.  The GM will deliver a consistently excellent member experience within the existing financial framework. The GM will balance innovation with tradition as the history of the club is highly valued by members.  The anticipated start date is in March 2024.

The GM will be responsible for:

  • The consistent delivery of a member service that meets, and often exceeds member expectations.
  • The supervision of the food and beverage operations, membership services, golf services operations, golf course maintenance, Club facilities and administrative services.
  • Responsibility for Senior Managers who report directly to the GM and are responsible for the day-to-day activities and processes.  Although the GM will rely on the Senior Managers to operate the daily activities, the GM will be ultimately accountable for overall performance metrics, service and development and mentorship of the senior management team.
  • Preparation of the Club’s annual operating and capital budgets and monthly financial results.
  • The development and implementation of the Earl Grey Strategic Plan and resulting Business Plan.
  • The implementation of Board policy and strategy.
  • Representation of the Club to members, staff and external stakeholders.  The GM is engaged in new member recruitment and onboarding.

The initial key areas of focus for the GM will be:

  • To understand the Club’s mission, vision, and evolving culture though interaction with members of all categories. This will be essential in building and executing plans and services to deliver the member experience model.
  • Coordination and delivery of an excellent CPKC Women’s Open.
    • Sit on the tournament executive committee with the Club’s volunteer tournament co-chairs.
    • Collaborate with Golf Canada, CPKC and their providers, and the City of Calgary; and
    • Manage Club resource requirements to ensure successful execution of the event.
  • Review the current Strategic Plan, operating and capital budgets and identify with Senior Management team opportunities for increased revenue, improved service delivery, and continuous process improvements.
  • Develop key performance indicators which can be used by the GM and Board to initiate business process improvement, establish a performance management plan and to measure success.
  • Develop strong relationships with key outside stakeholders, including the Club’s landlord and the surrounding communities.
  • Build on the already strong culture at Earl Grey, making the Club a preferred choice for prospective employees and new members.

CANDIDATE PROFILE

The GM reports to the Board. Given the leading role this individual will play in achieving the strategic objectives of Earl Grey Golf Club, it is essential that the successful candidate possess the following core competencies, experience, and attributes:

  • A dynamic leader with the ability to build strong teams by motivation and leading by example. Has the ability to provide direction and expectations, performance feedback and recognition that leads to positive outcomes.
  • Previous experience as a senior leader at a private golf club or other similar facility, experience in the hospitality industry beneficial.
  • A self-starter and results-oriented work style combined with excellent communication and interpersonal skills with all the Club’s stakeholders.
  • Strong professional deportment with a clear commitment to member service through an open and transparent customer/member approach.
  • A strategic thinker with a strong business acumen that has the ability to identify opportunities for maximizing club revenues.
  • Politically astute with the ability to identify potential issues and deal effectively with them while exercising tact and diplomacy.
  • An entrepreneurial style combined with a background in all aspects of business management including business development, finance, information technology, human resources, risk management and performance management.
  • Previous experience hosting national amateur or professional golf tournaments, championships, or major events an asset.
  • Readily accepts and responds to challenges. Directly confronts problems and persists in finding a solution.
  • Demonstrates integrity and ethical conduct in words and deeds.
  • Incorporates succession planning by preparing staff for key leadership roles.
  • Ensures compliance with all regulatory and matters affecting the Club.
  • Displays a definite business presence complemented with personal drive, resourcefulness, maturity, integrity, and sound business judgment.
  • Has experience reporting to a Board that has adopted a club governance structure and processes to lead the Club and GM to success.
  • A post-secondary degree in business or a related discipline preferred.
  • A Certified Club Manager designation (CCM) is preferred.

NOTE

The previous General Manager’s last day with the club is February 29, 2024 due to accepting another position within the club industry.

COMPENSATION

Earl Grey will offer a very attractive compensation package, commensurate with experience, which will include a competitive base salary, bonus opportunity and benefits.

INQUIRIES:

IMPORTANT: Interested candidates should submit a resume along with a detailed cover letter which addresses the qualifications and describes your alignment/experience with the prescribed position by January 29, 2024.  The documents must be saved as a PDF (save as “Last Name, First Name, Earl Grey) and email to: execsearch@ggapartners.com.

 

Lead Search Consultants: 

Michael Gregory
Managing Director & Partner
GGA Partners™
michael.gregory@ggapartners.com

 

George Pinches
Director
GGA Partners™
george.pinches@ggapartners.com

 

To learn more about the club please visit: https://www.earlgreygolfclub.com/  

 

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