Author: Linda Dillenbeck

Executive Search: General Manager, The Surf Club

Date:

General Manager
The Surf Club
Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina

 

The Surf Club: A Timeless Gathering Place

The Surf Club, founded in 1941, was originally inspired by the residents of Wrightsville Beach to have a place to dine and entertain during the summer months when many of the inhabitants of the inland communities would come to escape the summer heat. It quickly became the hub of many of the social activities of the area and became a prominent location to hold upscale dining events during the bustling summer season.

Throughout its history, The Surf Club (the Club) has always had a very distinguished membership roster representing all factions of the business and social community. Today, the Club continues to offer a warm and inviting atmosphere for members and their guests.

Whether members are seeking casual beachside dining or elegant clubhouse events, the commitment to excellence remains unwavering. As the perfect setting to celebrate life’s special moments, the Club is also very popular for beachfront weddings, receptions, and other intimate gatherings.

Steeped in history, the Club maintains a traditional environment where members and their families gather to engage in meaningful social interactions and build lasting relationships.


POSITION SUMMARY

The General Manager reports directly to the Board President and is responsible for leading and inspiring the entire team to consistently provide Members with the best hospitality experience possible. This position oversees all operational functions of the Club. Direct reports include the Controller, Two Assistant Managers, the Culinary Director, and the Pavilion Manager.

Position Description/Requirements

 

SEARCH EXECUTIVES

 

Eric Hutchison
Director
eric.hutchison@ggapartners.com
614.271.9355

 

 

Kelly Simons
Director
kelly.simons@ggapartners.com
435-655-1509

 

Apply Now

 

Executive Search: Golf Course Superintendent, Credit Valley Golf & Country Club

Date:

Golf Course Superintendent
Credit Valley Golf & Country Club

 

“Building relationships that last a lifetime.”

Golf Course Architect Robbie Robinson once stated that when he first viewed the “raw” property, he thought that he had never seen a more perfect natural setting for a golf course. This is a high praise indeed from a man who has built golf courses all over the world.

Credit Valley Golf and Country Club combines breathtaking scenery with a consistently challenging parkland design that combines tight fairways with large and fast, undulating greens. Incorporated with 5 sets of tees, golfers of all skill levels agree that Credit Valley is a true, fair test of golf.

The course is one with nature as the river winds throughout the valley lands. Red-tail hawks and deer are seen on the course early morning and late evening as golfers begin and end their adventures. The finest course conditions are enjoyed by members and guests as the course superintendent and his staff deliver an exceptional daily golf experience.

POSITION SUMMARY
This Golf Course Superintendent is responsible for the overall maintenance and management of the entire (180 acre) property. This includes the golf course, practice facility, clubhouse landscape areas, and all other outdoor spaces. This position involves oversight of all aspects of turfgrass management, irrigation, landscaping, equipment and facility maintenance, and personnel. The person in this role will work closely with the COO and the rest of the leadership team to deliver an exceptional golf and outdoor experience to Credit Valley members and their guests. The individual will lead, educate, and foster an environment for continuous learning and improvement. Direct reports include the Assistant Superintendent and the Equipment Manager.

Position Description/Requirements

 

SEARCH EXECUTIVES

 

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

 

 

George Pinches
Director
george.pinches@ggapartners.com

 

 

Apply Now

 

Innovation…the Key to Success in Private Clubs

Date:

No stranger to innovation, Bob Dylan recorded “Like a Rolling Stone” in early summer of 1965 causing Bruce Springsteen to say of the first time he heard it, “[it] sounded like somebody’d kicked open the door to your mind.” The song was innovative and wildly admired in numerous ways and changed popular music for years to come. Innovation seldom comes in such a lightning bolt.

In the wake of a once-in-a-century event like the coronavirus pandemic, what innovations has your club introduced? Some of the most interesting innovations tie to the growing capabilities of artificial intelligence (AI) where performance diagnostics for golf and tennis; where applications of technology are enabling more seamless facial recognition which enable club personnel to eliminate the confounding “what is your number” question; and where advanced cybersecurity can protect private club members’ identities and confidential information. The possibilities are like a rolling stone.Three innovations worthy of consideration for your club:

1. Performance Enhancement Capabilities – One golf swing analysis chamber is not enough, as most clubs have found. Then, two are found to be lacking in most clubs and only when clubs commit to making athletic performance facilities a central feature in their approach to innovation do they prosper.

The reasons most often found in clubs taking this big step are three-fold:

Enthusiastic users are seen by other members as “hogging” the new amenity and, thus reducing others’ enjoyment or experimentation.

The social enjoyment, where groups of golf or tennis enthusiasts gather for informal “leagues” during off-season and inclement weather conditions. The blend of athletic, competitive, social seems to be popular with club members.

The pressure on club boards to find new and interesting activities escalates with each advancement.

Golf training and swing analysis capabilities are exceedingly popular. Bear in mind that a tennis stroke can be analyzed if a golf swing can be. And then, there will be pickleball.

2. Personnel Development Methods –Many club leaders are answering questions about the quality of member services and innovative managers are turning to new-found programs and resources for teaching service capabilities to a higher and more consistent levels.

“To effectively shape training and development initiatives, it’s crucial to incorporate the employee experience,” says Eric Hutchison, PhD, Director at GGA Partners. “Leveraging new technologies alongside established knowledge has unlocked a vast array of training possibilities for enhancing upscale member services.”

How does it feel to be on your own when capabilities are building all around?

3. Emotion-Based Member Activities – Members join clubs for many reasons. Eric Brey, PhD, another Director at GGA Partners, reports, “Club members indicate they are most satisfied with the emotional value they receive from their membership. This value is created from the feelings they have toward their membership.”

Socialization – The desire to interact with friends and family dominates this point of emphasis. Part of the human condition, socialization is one of the basic needs clubs serve.

One of the most impactful innovations in clubs has been the growth of open-air or al fresco dining experiences that emerged responding to Covid-period social distancing guidelines. From this concept, some clubs are capitalizing on open-air member events like a Sunday afternoon picnic which underscores all members desire for a safe setting for activities which bring friends and families together.

Personalized Service – Many members want to be recognized and treated as “special” as part of feeling comfortable at their club. Clubs that provide personal recognition – like being called by name without prompting – fulfill this need of many members.

Wine programs where members’ names are attached to their own bin filled with wines chosen for them. Next-generation ideas emerging bring forward bespoke menus for small member gatherings…think of a catered event on a smaller scale of 10 to 20 members per event.

Who wants to be a complete unknown with no direction home?

Innovation in private clubs is emerging as a platform for market differentiation and competitive advantage. Club leaders who recognize these opportunities provide valuable opportunities for their clubs’ service to members’ needs.

GGA Partner Henry DeLozier penned this article.

31 Years | 31 Lessons – Balancing Expectations

Date:

Lesson #12
of GGA Director Colin Burns’
31 years | 31 Lessons

We’re all been taught to exceed member expectations, but sometimes that simply isn’t possible.
Colin shares the importance of communications to balance expectations.

Watch Lesson 12

 

Where Governance & Strategy Converge

Date:

Peter Drucker famously advised, “Culture eats strategy for breakfast.”

And he was correct. In a private club “culture” is governance. Club leaders do well to place themselves and their clubs at the intersection of governance and strategy. Five keys for clubs that master blending governance and strategy are shown below:

1. Be intentional. Making your club’s governance better – more trusted…more transparent…more business-like – is one of the primary goals.

Sound and trustworthy governance follows business planning that is organized, deliberate, and time oriented. In day-today parlance it is a matter of telling people what you will do and doing it to the best of your ability. Sound strategic planning for a private club involves: (a) informing members as to what the club’s leaders will do, (b) providing timely updates to inform all members, (c) adjusting to changing or emerging circumstances, and (d) executing a thorough plan that has been shared with all members.

By definition, strategic planning is a process-driven method for identifying key goals and objectives and the methods that will be used to answer the question: what?

2. Build the business case for sound governance. Show how strategy delivers and keeps your club’s members engaged, happy, and supportive. Most club members want to know several simple things: (a) what the Club stands for – as described in its mission, vision, and core values; (b) the primary goals that their board will pursue to deliver on the club’s promises; and (c) accountability by the board to the general membership for the decisions that are made with their resources if time and treasure.

“We need to decide who we want to be when we grow up.” This over-simplified statement is often the one used by club members when describing club’s which lack clearly stated and understood purpose. Club leaders do well when they can clearly state the club’s purpose.

The business case for sound governance involves reliable financial performance on which most members place great importance and the assurance that “the club will continue to be what I want it to be.” Since clubs evolve in real time, club leaders must regularly update and revise the club’s purposes to ensure that the club remains relevant to most members.

3. Set a process map and timetable. Trustworthy, transparent governance requires stating one’s intentions and reporting regularly in a time-oriented manner. Stated simply, “plan your work and work your plan.”

Process maps are everyday corporate tools which provide structure, organization, time references, and accountability. The most useful process maps used in private club settings – such as a GANTT chart – show (a) what is to be done and (b) when it is to be completed. Nothing complicated here.

Timely updates which are redundant messaging using multiple media – such as email, hard copies, and social media links – help interested members to understand how the club is being effectively governed and lead.

4. State the strategic goals clearly and simply. Best practice goal setting relies upon four to six annual strategic goals. Select the goals that will most effectively move the club forward constructively and address the club’s primary needs.

Review the difference between strategy and tactics to ensure that your club’s goals are not tactical. The operating or business plan are the place for the tactical objectives. A key to dependable governance is the board members’ ability to remain focused on the big-picture strategic goals.

5. Measure and report the board’s performance on a strategic scorecard. Demonstrating to ordinary members of the club that they board understands that it is accountable to members is a cornerstone for sound governance.

Keep score on the four to six strategic goals and update the scorecard quarterly. In addition to simple email blasts, conduct quarterly meetings with members to update them regarding strategy…and don’t be dragged into the tactical weeds with concerns of the day.

The intersection of governance and strategy defines the future success of your club.

GGA Partner Henry DeLozier penned this article for Boardroom Briefs. It appeared in the August 3, 2024 edition.

Club Leaders Perspective – 2024

Date:

2024 Club Leaders Perspective Report

GGA Partners and the Club Management Association of America continue the annual Club Leaders Perspective research to understand the industry’s challenges and opportunities.

Launched in 2020 to benchmark operational data and examine trends while exploring timely topics to address new challenges and take advantage of market opportunities, this year’s annual survey shows:

 

  • Club Leaders can take pride in the positive operational performance, continued strength in membership, and ongoing member satisfaction.
  • Even as there is an expected relief from inflationary pressures, there are still existing and emerging challenges that threaten the overall financial health of their clubs.
  • As Club Leaders look to the future, they will focus on engaging members and creating an environment that enhances employee attraction and retention efforts.
  • Clubs continue to increase operating dues and initiation fees to cover the rising operational and capital expenditures, with capital dues rising at the highest rate of all three.
  • Nine out of 10 leaders are concerned about member behavior, and most remedies focus on management-led solutions rather than members self-correcting to address concerns.

Read now

About GGA Partners
GGA Partners™ is an international consulting firm and leading advisor to many of the world’s most successful golf courses, private clubs, resorts, and residential communities.  We work with owners, asset managers, club and community leaders, investors and real estate developers tackle challenges, achieve objectives, and maximize asset performance. Established in 1992 as the KPMG Golf Industry Practice, our global team of experienced professionals leverage in-depth business intelligence and proprietary global data to deliver impactful strategic solutions and lasting success. GGA Partners has offices in Toronto, Ontario, West Palm Beach, Florida, Phoenix, Arizona and Dublin, Ireland.

GGA Partners is proud to be a long-standing CMAA Business Partner.

For further information, contact:

Dr. Eric Brey, Ph.D.
Director
GGA Partners
t: 715.505.7716
e: eric.brey@ggapartners.com

For additional information the Club Management Association of America, visit: cmaa.org

Executive Search: General Manager, The Boulevard Club

Date:

General Manager
The Boulevard Club

Apply Now

The Boulevard Club – An unrivaled social and sporting oasis on the waterfront. 

The Boulevard Club is a vibrant, lakeside community carved out of the peaceful shores of Lake Ontario. As the only lakefront, multi-sport recreation and social club in Downtown/West Toronto, The Boulevard Club delivers an unmatched member experience that’s rich in history and tradition yet focused on the future. From spectacular views and year-round recreational activities to family-friendly services, an easy-access marina, and top-notch sports facilities, it simply does not get more relaxed or vibrant.

For over a century, The Boulevard Club has built a reputation around time-honored traditions, exemplary service, and unrivaled athletics programs for all ages and abilities, including tennis, badminton, water sports, fitness, swimming, pickleball, recreational gym, and more.

The Club takes pride in creating an exceptional Member experience thanks to an equally diverse and inclusive team. Team members are vital to the success of the Club and the Club continues to value and develop their exceptional staff. If you would like to lead a team of professionals and build your career at one of Toronto’s top private clubs, The Boulevard Club may be a great fit.

CORE VALUES

– Welcome and include everyone with warm hospitality.
– Listen to and recognize diverse points of view.
– Treat others with the utmost respect.
– Support continuous improvement and long-term financial viability.
– Commit to being an environmentally sustainable Club.

ABOUT THE CLUB
Member-Owned Private Club
Total Members: ~4,000
Gross Revenue: $18M
Annual Dues Revenue: $6.6M
Annual F&B Revenue: $4.5M
Full-Time Equivalent Employees: 267

AMENITIES

POSITION SUMMARY
The General Manager reports directly to the Board President and is responsible for leading and inspiring the entire team to consistently provide Members with the best all-around sporting and hospitality experience possible. This position oversees all operational functions of the Club. Direct reports include the Director of Marketing, Communications, & Membership; Director of Finance; Human Resources Director; Clubhouse Manager; Racquets Director; Yachting Director; Athletics & Wellness Director; and the Club’s Executive Administrator.

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

Models Hospitality and Service Excellence: Creating a welcoming and exceptional experience for members and guests in all areas of the Club. Setting high standards for service and ensuring staff are well-trained and empowered to deliver.

Leadership – Interpersonal: Building strong relationships with members, staff, and board members. Demonstrating empathy, active listening, and effective communication skills to foster collaboration and address concerns.

Leads Change & Supports Innovation: Championing new ideas and initiatives that improve the club’s operations and member experience. Effectively communicating and managing change processes to gain buy-in from the Board, Members and Staff.

Values & Promotes Diversity: Fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment that respects and celebrates the diversity of the membership.

Club Governance: Understanding the legal and ethical frameworks that guide private club operations, including member rights and responsibilities, board structures, and regulatory compliance.

Emotional Intelligence: Being aware of and managing one’s own emotions, while understanding the emotions of others. This allows for navigating complex situations and building trust.

Strategic Management: Developing long-range strategic and capital planning that aligns with the club’s vision, mission, and competitive landscape. Setting goals, allocating resources, and measuring progress.

Financial Acumen: Understanding financial statements, budgeting, cost control, financial analysis, and capital funding strategies that are specific to the private club industry.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
The following responsibilities align with the competencies outlined above and are crucial for ensuring the Club’s continued success and member satisfaction. The GM must be able to lead with empathy, innovate strategically, and manage the club’s resources effectively while maintaining a strong focus on service excellence and inclusivity.

Models Hospitality and Service Excellence

  • Enhance Member and Guest Experience: Lead the ongoing refinement of the club’s culinary approach and oversee the operational plan to implement these improvements. This includes enhancing service standards, upgrading facilities, and reimagining the food and beverage offerings for the Club.
  • Staff Training and Empowerment: Coordinate and oversee comprehensive training programs to ensure staff are well-equipped to deliver high-quality service. Empower staff by providing them with the tools, resources, and authority to resolve issues on the spot, enhancing the overall member experience.
  • Monitor and Improve Service Standards: Regularly assess service delivery and financial viability through member feedback and performance metrics, while implementing continuous improvement initiatives to maintain high service standards.

Leadership – Interpersonal

  • Build Strong Relationships: Engage regularly with members, staff, and board members to understand their needs, concerns, and expectations. Use active listening and empathy to build trust and foster a collaborative environment.
  • Effective Communication: Maintain open lines of communication with all stakeholders, ensuring that information is shared transparently and that concerns are addressed promptly. Implement feedback mechanisms to gauge member and employee satisfaction, addressing issues proactively.
  • Conflict Resolution: Address conflicts or complaints with empathy and professionalism, ensuring that all parties feel heard and respected.

Leads Change & Supports Innovation

  • Champion New Initiatives: Lead the development and implementation of an innovative Master Plan to modernize club facilities, enhance programming, and improve overall operations. This involves driving improvements in outdated areas (dining spaces, sports facilities), and making recommendations to the Board regarding maintenance and capital allocations.
  • Manage Change Processes: Effectively communicate the benefits of change initiatives to the board, staff, and members, securing their buy-in and managing transitions smoothly. Provide clear timelines, expectations, and support during the implementation of new initiatives.
  • Continuous Improvement: Stay informed of industry trends and member preferences, using this information to drive continuous improvement in club offerings and operations.

Values & Promotes Diversity

  • Foster Inclusivity: Create an inclusive environment where all members feel welcomed and valued, regardless of their background or preferences. This includes ensuring that club programming and events cater to a diverse membership.
  • Cultural Awareness: Provide diversity and sensitivity training for staff to ensure they can effectively interact with and serve a diverse membership.
  • Diverse Programming: Expand the variety of programs and events offered to reflect the diverse interests and backgrounds of the club’s membership.

Club Governance

  • Ensure Regulatory Compliance: Stay updated on legal and ethical guidelines related to private club operations, ensuring that all club activities comply with relevant regulations.
  • Governance Best Practices: Work closely with the Board of Directors to implement governance best practices, including clear communication of member rights and responsibilities, and adherence to board structures and procedures.
  • Policy Development: Assist in the development and enforcement of club policies that align with legal standards and reflect the club’s mission and values.

Emotional Intelligence

  • Self-Awareness and Regulation: Maintain self-awareness and emotional control in all interactions, particularly in high-stress or conflict situations, to model professionalism and composure.
  • Understand and Manage Member Emotions: Be attuned to the emotional states of members and staff, using this awareness to navigate sensitive situations and build strong, trusting relationships.
  • Empathy and Support: Provide support and understanding to both members and staff during challenging times, demonstrating genuine concern for their well-being.

Strategic Management

  • Develop Long-Term Plans: Lead the creation of strategic plans that align with the club’s vision and mission, focusing on long-term sustainability and member satisfaction. This includes addressing capital investment needs and facility upgrades.
  • Resource Allocation: Ensure resources are allocated efficiently to meet strategic goals, including budgeting for necessary maintenance, improvements, and a major facilities upgrade.
  • Measure and Report Progress: Regularly assess progress towards strategic goals, using key performance indicators (KPIs) to guide decision-making and provide updates to the board, staff, and membership.

Financial Acumen

  • Financial Planning and Budgeting: Strong understanding of financial and capital management. Work closely with the Controller to support the development and management of budgets that align with the club’s strategic goals, ensuring financial stability and sustainability. This includes awareness of cost control measures and financial planning for capital projects.
  • Financial Analysis: Regularly review financial statements and performance metrics to identify areas for improvement and ensure the club remains financially healthy.
  • Optimize Revenue Streams: Explore and implement new revenue-generating opportunities while managing costs effectively, particularly in the food and beverage sector and member programming.

CANDIDATE PROFILE

The General Manager is responsible for leading the team to achieve The Boulevard Club’s strategic objectives. The ideal candidate will possess the following qualifications:

Professional Experience: Proven success as a General Manager/Chief Operating Officer at a member-focused hospitality, recreational, or resort facility of similar size and volume. Demonstrated expertise in operational management, enhancing guest experience, and leading high-impact and complex projects.

Leadership: A dynamic, results-oriented leader with a proven ability to build and motivate high-performing teams, effectively engage with a board of directors, drive a strong governance structure, and uphold the mission and vision of the Club.

Business Acumen: Strong financial acumen, including negotiating, budgeting, forecasting, and profit and loss management. Knowledge of investment and financial structuring is preferred.

Member Focus: An understanding of the culture in a membership-driven organization 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 overseeing all aspects of Club operations and events.

Communication and Collaboration: Excellent communication and presentation 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 performance bonus.

INQUIRIES

IMPORTANT: Interested candidates should submit their resume along with a detailed cover letter which addresses the qualifications and describes your alignment/experience with the prescribed position by September 22, 2024. Those documents must be saved and submitted in Word or PDF format (save as “Last Name, First Name, Boulevard Club Resume” and ‘Last Name, First Name, Boulevard Cover Letter”) respectively to: https://bit.ly/4dz1QSb

LEAD SEARCH EXECUTIVE

 

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

 

Apply Now

 

Executive Search: Director of Golf for Oakdale Golf & Country Club

Date:

Director of Golf
Oakdale Golf & Country Club

Apply Now

 

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

 

Apply Now

 

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