Executive Search: Controller, Bigwin Island Golf Club

September 4, 2025
Glen Dowbiggin, Michael Gregory, Placement, Private Clubs, Leadership, Executive Search

Controller
Bigwin Island Golf Club
Baysville, Ontario

CLUB OVERVIEW
Bigwin Island, first known as Bigwin Inn, opened in 1920 as a 9-hole Stanley Thompson course and become an 18-hole golf course by 1930. Bigwin Island was once billed as North America’s largest and most luxurious summer destinations, hosting numerous extravagant galas and events. More than 100 years after Bigwin Inn first opened, Bigwin Island’s glory days are back again.

Nestled within a private island paradise on Lake of Bays, Bigwin Island Golf Club (“Bigwin Island” or the “Club”) is an exceptional golf experience in a spectacular setting that provides a top private club atmosphere for its members. Members and guests to the island can play a round on a sensational golf course… savor a fine meal in the restaurant-clubhouse housed in Bigwin Inn’s historic original dining room or enjoy a meal lakeside at the newly renovated Dockside… and take advantage of an opportunity to make Bigwin Island their summer home.

Today, Bigwin Island is an exclusive equity membership club, with a limited number of 260 equity members (490 total members) and an estimated 6-to-8-year waitlist for membership. On the 520-acre island paradise, members enjoy glorious lake vistas and utmost privacy, complemented by world-class golf and top tier amenities.

Bigwin Island is currently seeking a Controller to join its elite team and support the Club in driving forward its vision and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the Club.

ABOUT THE CLUB

Member-Owned Private Club
Member Count: 260 Equity Members; 490 Total Members
Gross Revenue: $7.6 million
Annual Dues Revenue: $3.9 million
Employee Count: 130 Total Employees (in-season)

AMENITIES
Golf
Tennis
Outdoor Dining
Indoor Dining
Basketball

POSITION SUMMARY
The Controller serves as a key member of the Club’s management team, responsible for overseeing all financial activities, including accounting, budgeting, financial reporting, and internal controls. This position ensures the integrity of financial information and provides leadership in strategic financial planning. The Controller works closely with the general manager, board of directors, and finance committee to support the Club’s financial goals and long-term stability. Additional responsibilities may include overseeing information technology and insurance programs and assisting with membership coordination.

Position Description/Requirements

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