Director of Golf
Oakdale Golf & Country Club

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Where friends and family connect—for nearly a century.

Oakdale Golf & Country Club (Oakdale) is a family-focused golf and country club providing high quality services and amenities to its members. Centrally located in the GTA, Oakdale has been a treasured part of members’ lives for nearly 100 years. Oakdale members enjoy a world-class 27-hole golf course complimented by a beautiful swimming pool, 6 Har-Tru tennis courts, a fitness facility and a full-service dining and lounge facility. Oakdale is Toronto’s club of choice for families. For decades, friends and family have played on its wonderful course, and generations have connected over incredible family dinners in Oakdale’s welcoming clubhouse.

The Golf Facilities
Oakdale is divided into three nines—the Thompson and Homenuik, which make up the original 18 created by Stanley Thompson, and the Knudson, which was created in 1957 by Robbie Robinson. Golfers enjoy a stunning course that is equally challenging for both the recreational and scratch golfer. A comprehensive practice facility, golf simulators and well-stocked, full-service Pro Shop round out the Club’s facilities. The Club has hosted several professional and amateur championships, including the 2023 RBC Canadian Open.

For more information on Oakdale Golf & Country Club, please visit www.oakdalegolf.com

THE POSITION

The Director of Golf reports directly to the General Manager and is part of the Senior Leadership Team. The person in this position will oversee all aspects of golf operations, including instruction, pro shop management, and member relations. This role requires a strong focus on enhancing the overall member experience while driving the golf department's success. The Director is responsible for developing and executing a retail marketing plan to boost pro shop revenue and member satisfaction. This includes identifying and recommending amenities to enhance member retention. A key performance indicator will be the management of the retail operation's profitability while simultaneously growing the golf business through increased usage, tournaments, and exceptional member engagement.

KEY COMPETENCIES

To be successful in this role, the Director of Golf will need to demonstrate the following competencies. These same areas will be a focus for your performance evaluation, ensuring clear expectations and ongoing support.

Leadership: Strong leadership skills to motivate and inspire staff and players to achieve their best. Create a positive and inclusive environment, delegate tasks effectively, and lead by example through professionalism and a strong work ethic.

Business Management: An understanding of basic business principles and applies them to the golf operation. This involves setting and managing budgets, monitoring labor, controlling inventory, analyzing sales data, and developing strategies to balance the importance of revenue growth with member experience.

Professional Development: Continuously improve their own skills and coaching techniques. Stay up to date on industry trends, technologies, and best practices, actively seeking opportunities to learn through workshops, conferences, and certifications. They may also share knowledge through mentorship or coaching colleagues.

Innovation and Technology: Being aware of current industry trends, best practices, and competitive landscape. Embracing new technologies that enhance the golfer's experience. This includes launch monitors, swing analysis tools, course management systems, and online platforms.

Golf Operations & Member Experience: Understanding golf course maintenance principles, work collaboratively with the Director of Property (Superintendent) to ensure course playability and aesthetics. Maintain practice facilities and identify any maintenance concerns promptly. Enforce golf course regulations and Rules of Golf. Includes a proactive approach to identifying and mitigating risks to member and employee safety.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Leadership and Team Building

• Build and lead a high-performing golf team, fostering a culture of excellence and teamwork.
• Develop and implement staff training programs to enhance skills and knowledge.
• Create a positive and inclusive work environment that promotes employee engagement and satisfaction.
• Engage with the Golf Committee to coordinate events while ensuring adherence to Oakdale’s policies and procedures.

Member Experience and Satisfaction

• Prioritize member satisfaction by delivering exceptional service and creating memorable experiences.
• Develop and implement programs and events to enhance member engagement and retention.
• Foster strong relationships with members, understanding their needs and preferences.

Golf Operations and Course Management

• Oversee daily golf operations, including tee time management, course setup, and pace of play.
• Collaborate with the Golf Course Director of Property (Superintendent) on course maintenance, playability, and the golf calendar.
• Enforce golf course rules and etiquette to ensure a positive playing environment for all members.
• Manage golf cart fleet, rental equipment, and range facilities.

Instruction and Player Development

• Develop and implement comprehensive golf instruction programs for members of all skill levels.
• Recruit and manage a team of qualified golf professionals to deliver high-quality instruction.
• Create a vibrant junior golf program to foster the next generation of golfers.

Pro Shop Management

• Manage the pro shop operations, including merchandise selection, inventory control, and staff development.
• Develop and implement marketing strategies to increase pro shop sales and revenue.
• Ensure the pro shop provides exceptional customer service and meets the needs of members.

Financial Management

• Develop and manage the golf department budget, including revenue and expense forecasting.
• Analyze financial performance and implement strategies to improve profitability.
• Explore new revenue streams and opportunities to increase golf department revenue.

Membership Marketing and Communication

• Communicate effectively with members, staff, and external stakeholders.
• Utilize technology and social media to promote the golf course and club amenities.

Security and Safety

• Collaborate with club management to implement and maintain security protocols.
• Ensure a safe and secure environment for members, staff, and guests.

CANDIDATE PROFILE

The Director of Golf plays a pivotal role in achieving Oakdale's strategic objectives. The ideal candidate will possess the following qualifications:

• Professional Experience: Class A member of the PGA of Canada with Director of Golf/Head Professional or comparable experience.
• Leadership: A dynamic, results-oriented leader with a proven ability to build and motivate high-performing teams.
• Business Acumen: Strong financial acumen, including budgeting, forecasting, and profit and loss management.
• Member Focus: A deep understanding of private club culture and a commitment to fostering exceptional member experiences.
• Strategic Thinking: Ability to develop and implement strategies to drive revenue, enhance member satisfaction, and ensure the club's long-term success.
• Operational Excellence: Experience in managing all aspects of golf operations, including course maintenance, pro shop, and events.
• Communication and Collaboration: Excellent communication skills and the ability to build strong partnerships within the club and with members.
• Professional Development: A passion for continuous learning and staying current with industry trends.

COMPENSATION

The Club will offer an attractive year-round compensation package, commensurate with experience, which will include a competitive base salary, benefits, and potential for bonus.

INQUIRIES - APPLICATION PERIOD HAS CLOSED.

LEAD SEARCH EXECUTIVES

 

Michael Gregory
Managing Director & Partner
michael.gregory@ggapartners.com
905.475.4030

 

 

Jeff Germond
Director, GGA Partners
jeff.germond@ggapartners.com

 

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