Tag: General Manager

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

 

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

 

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: General Manager/Chief Operating Officer for Delray Dunes Golf & Country Club

Date:

General Manager/Chief Operating Officer
Delray Dunes Golf & Country Club

“Delray Dunes Golf & Country Club’s Vision is to Perpetuate a Social Culture Where Members Can Entertain Guests, Nurture Families, and Enjoy Leisure Time Pursuits Among Enduring Friendships.”

The mission of Delray Dunes Golf & Country Club is to enrich the lives of its members, their families, and guests. With many golf and country club options in the area, Delray Dunes stands out due to its small, diverse membership, unique playing protocol, and fair amount of flexibility. The club offers an active, inviting, and enjoyable golf schedule for men, women, mixed groups, and juniors. Women golfers especially appreciate being part of the highly engaged women’s competitions and networking events.

The atmosphere at Delray Dunes is natural, reflecting the surrounding beauty. Carlton Blunt, the Founder of Delray Dunes, envisioned a peaceful, pastoral community—a family club. Delray Dunes has preserved this character and charm, maintaining a standard of excellence for its residents. Financially healthy and privately owned, the club is situated on 337 acres with 323 home sites, including 200 single-family homes and 123 freestanding villas in seven distinct styles. Most homes offer views of the golf course or the lakes. Remarkably, eleven original homeowners from 1969 still reside here, and the community is enriched by multi-generational families. Delray Dunes is a guard-gated community with roving patrols.

What makes something special is when you keep returning time after time. What makes something uniquely special is when your legacy returns as well. Delray Dunes is unique for having many first, second, third, and even fourth-generation residents. Currently, there are over 41 Legacy Members, underscoring the club’s special appeal.

ABOUT THE CLUB

  • Member-owned private club (mandatory membership with home purchase)
  • HOA: separate entity
  • Total members: 425
  • Gross revenue: $10.5M
  • Annual dues revenue: $7M
  • Annual F&B revenue: $2.45M
  • Annual rounds of golf: 30,500
  • Full-time equivalent employees: 95

CORE VALUES

The following values represent the priorities that will drive leadership decisions:

  • Friendship and high-quality social interaction
  • Fun place to be a member or guest
  • Exceptional staff service quality throughout the Club
  • Honesty, integrity and professionalism in governance, management, and communication
  • Leadership and governance with no personal or hidden agendas
  • Financial accountability to the membership
  • Unwavering commitment to excellence and continuous improvement

AMENITIES

  • 26,000 square foot Florida-style clubhouse
  • 18-hole championship golf course designed by Pete Dye
  • Fully stocked Golf Retail Shop (owned by the Golf Professional)
  • Main Dining Room
  • Private Dining/Meeting Room
  • Grille Room
  • Loggia – new outdoor bar and dining area
  • Fitness Center with state-of-the-art True equipment and a studio for fitness classes
  • 2 Har-Tru Clay lighted tennis courts
  • Resort style swimming pool.
  • Children’s playground
  • Men’s & Ladies Card rooms
  • Men’s & Ladies Locker rooms
  • Library

POSITION OVERVIEW
Delray Dunes General Manager/COO is responsible for leading and inspiring the entire team to consistently provide Members with the best all-around golf club and hospitality experience possible. This position oversees all operational functions of the Club including, but not limited to, Accounting, Communications, Guest Services, Events, Golf Course Management, Food and Beverage, the Golf Shop, Tennis, Wellness, Administration, and Housekeeping.

In each of these realms, meeting expectations means Members’ needs are proactively anticipated and delivered upon before they are ever verbalized. The General Manager/COO should set an expectation of excellence in every regard from the largest of visions to the smallest detail. This individual should exemplify each of Delray Dunes’ core values in every interaction with Members, guests, and Delray Dunes team.

It is essential that the General Manager/COO be able to communicate, build relationships with, and ensure common goals and objectives are met with the staff, Members, and Board of Directors. Although the GM/COO does not oversee the Homeowner’s Association (HOA), ongoing involvement and collaboration between with the Club (GM/COO, Golf Superintendent) and the HOA is essential.

KEY COMPETENCIES
To be successful in this role, you 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 – Interpersonal & Values & Promotes Diversity: A charismatic and emotionally intelligent leader with the ability to build strong relationships with members, staff, and board members. This professional demonstrates empathy, active listening, and effective communication to foster a collaborative, inclusive, and respectful environment.

Models Hospitality and Service Excellence: With a passion for exceeding expectations, this individual will set high standards for service across all departments. He/She will ensure staff are well-trained, empowered, and committed to delivering exceptional member experiences.

Club Governance & Strategic Management: Possesses a deep understanding of the legal and regulatory frameworks governing private clubs, member rights/responsibilities, and board structures. This leader will develop and execute long-term plans aligned with the Club’s vision, mission, and competitive landscape. The GM/COO will set clear goals, allocate resources effectively, and measure progress towards strategic objectives.

Financial Acumen: Proven ability to understand and manage the Club’s financial health. This includes overseeing the annual budgeting process, collaborating with the CFO, and ensuring financial stability.

Leads Change & Supports Innovation: Hands-on approach to champion innovative ideas and initiatives that improve operations and the member experience, effectively communicating and managing change processes. Strategic Planning.

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Oversee all operational aspects of Delray Dunes, ensuring seamless member and guest experiences while fostering a high-performing and motivated team.
  • Possess an understanding of the game of golf and translate that knowledge into action for exceptional member experiences.
  • Foster open communication with the Board, Committee Chairs, and staff through regular meetings and updates, ensuring alignment with priorities and objectives.
  • Build strong and meaningful relationships with members and staff, addressing their needs and concerns promptly and professionally.
  • Continuously develop and empower the Delray Dunes team, fostering a culture of learning and career growth.
    Ensure the clubhouse and facilities are maintained to the highest standards, reflecting Delray Dunes’ elegance.
  • Leverage industry networks to identify and implement best practices and cutting-edge concepts while demonstrating continuous learning within the private club space.
  • Lead with a service-oriented mindset, demonstrating confidence and composure while addressing challenging situations.
  • Ensure all staff exemplify the Club’s mission and take swift action when expectations are not met.
  • Remain apprised of legal and legislative trends affecting the Club and work with the Board to ensure compliance.
  • Represent Delray Dunes with professionalism and tact on and off-site, upholding the Club’s values in all interactions.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

  • College degree and CCM or CCE certification required or in progress.
  • 5 years of leadership experience at a premier private club.

REPORTING STRUCTURE
The position reports to the Board of Directors through the Club President.

DIRECT REPORTS
Director of Golf, Tennis Vendor, Executive Chef, Assistant General Manager, Dining Room Manager, Golf Course Superintendent, Membership Director, Controller and Administrative Staff.

COMPENSATION
Delray Dunes Golf Club will offer an extremely attractive compensation package, commensurate with experience, which will include a competitive base salary, bonus opportunity and benefits.

APPLICATION PROCESS HAS CLOSED

Search Team

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

 

 

Eric Hutchison, MBA, Ph.D.
Director, GGA Partners, USA, LLC
eric.hutchison@ggapartners.com
614.271.9355

 

 

Executive Search: General Manager for Country Club of Charleston

Date:

General Manager
Country Club of Charleston

The Country Club of Charleston is a prestigious private club located in the heart of Charleston, South Carolina. Since its establishment in 1900, the club has cultivated a rich heritage, offering its members a well-managed, family-oriented environment that caters to their diverse interests. In 1925, the club moved to its present location on the McLeod Plantation, which consists of 900 acres on the Ashley River. The 26,000 sq. ft. clubhouse, considered a focal point in Charleston, was built on top of a bluff overlooking Charleston Harbor.

The Board of Directors is committed to overseeing the club’s operations to promote a vibrant atmosphere for both social and sporting events, all within the context of its pristine facilities.  The club is currently planning a full golf course renovation to commence in December 2025.

The Country Club of Charleston has a rich tournament history and a long tradition of supporting the game of golf. The Azalea Invitational is hosted every year before the Masters. Today the Azalea has developed into a National Amateur Event with players from across the country and an impressive list of former champions.  The Club also hosts the Beth Daniel Junior Invitational and the Azalea Senior each year.  In addition to the invitational, the Club has hosted 27 State Championships, the 2019 U.S. Women’s Open, and is actively pursuing additional major amateur championships in the next 5-10 years.

CLUB OVERVIEW:

Established: 1900 (124 Years Old)

Initiation Fee: $85,000

Annual dues: Full membership $10,200

Total Number of Members: 896

Total Employees: 162

Direct Reports

Food and Beverage Manager; Executive Chef; Director of Finance and Administration; Director of Golf; Golf Course Superintendent; Director of Tennis; and Director of Facilities.

Amenities

18-hole championship course, par 72, designed by Seth Raynor in 1925.

6 outdoor lighted courts (5 Har-Tru Clay & 1 Har-Tru Hard Court).

Outdoor resort-style, zero-entry pool.

Family Activity Center (FAC), a 24/7 fitness facility with a wide range of equipment and classes.

Dining Facilities:

Lounge/Bar that seats 32

Formal Dining Room that seats 35

Casual Grill Dining Room with Terrace Seating that seats 98

Outdoor Pool Café that seats 70

Upstairs Ballroom that seats 200

 

POSITION OVERVIEW:

Lead a thriving private club environment:  The General Manager plays a pivotal role in shaping the member experience by overseeing all Club operations. Your focus will be on creating a welcoming and exceptional environment that fosters member satisfaction and loyalty.

Champion Strategic Growth:  You’ll work collaboratively with the Board of Directors to develop and execute a long-term vision for the Club.  This includes identifying and implementing innovative strategies that enhance member experience and optimize financial performance.

Build a High-Performing Team:   You’ll foster a collaborative and results-oriented work environment, empowering your team to deliver exceptional service.  Your leadership skills will be crucial in building strong relationships with staff, identifying and developing top talent.

Drive Operational Excellence:  You’ll ensure efficient and cost-effective club operations, implementing continuous improvement initiatives that elevate service standards and member satisfaction.

Competencies:

To be successful in this role, you 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. 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.
  • Displays 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.
  • 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 members and staff.
  • Club Governance: Understanding the legal and ethical frameworks that guide private club operations, including member rights and responsibilities, board structures, and regulatory compliance.
  • Strategic Management: Developing long-term plans that consider the club’s vision, mission, and competitive landscape. Setting goals, allocating resources, and measuring progress.
  • Accounting: Understanding financial statements, budgeting, cost control, and financial analysis specific to the private club industry.

Targeted Qualities:

 Leadership

  • Builds High-Performing Teams: Creates a collaborative environment where staff thrive and departments work seamlessly together.
  • Develops Top Talent: Identifies and mentors high-potential staff, addressing any skill gaps through training and development.
  • Member-Centric Leadership: Cultivates a “Members First” culture by prioritizing member needs and fostering strong relationships.

 Strategic Vision

  • Innovation Champion: Drives positive change by championing new ideas and initiatives that enhance member experience and club operations.
  • Action-Oriented Planning: Develops clear action plans to achieve strategic goals, translating vision into tangible results.

 Financial Acumen

  • Cost-Conscious Management: Demonstrates a strong understanding of private club finances and implements strategies to optimize costs while maintaining service excellence.

 Communication & Results

  • Engaging Communicator: Effectively communicates with members and staff, fostering transparency and buy-in for changes.
  • Data-Driven Decisions: Analyzes member feedback (surveys) and other data to identify areas for improvement and measure the success of initiatives.
  • Results-Oriented: Sets clear goals, motivates the team, and ensures achievement of objectives.

Candidate Qualifications

Educational Requirements

  • Hospitality/Business Management degree preferred.
  • In lieu of a degree, substantial private golf club or hospitality experience will be considered.
  • CCM and CCE certification preferred.

EXPERIENCE:

  • Previous success as a General Manager at a Private Country Club.
  • A minimum of 5 – 7 years of progressive Private Club management experience, strong financial acumen, exceptional administrative skills, and thorough knowledge of food and beverage. We are looking for someone who:
    • Has identified and led initiatives and programs to enhance member experience and increase Club usage.
    • Has implemented a vision of success for F&B, addressing staffing, service, training, standards, consistency, member experience, policies/procedures, etc.
    • Experience hosting Invitational and Championship Tournaments.
  • Experience developing/implementing long-range (strategic) and annual (business) plans, operating reports, forecasts, and budgets, with a strong understanding of hospitality and service balanced against financial efficiencies.
  • A team builder in the industry who has a history of attracting, developing, and retaining a high-performing team.
  • A personable style and visibly engaged presence with members, guests, and staff.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

The successful applicant will receive an attractive compensation package commensurate with experience and qualifications. Other benefits include:

  • Health, Dental, and Vision insurance per Country Club of Charleston benefit package.
  • 401(k) plan, paid time off
  • Professional dues and educational allowance with emphasis on continuing education.
  • Relocation assistance

This position has been filled.

Lead Search Consultant: 

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

For more information about the Country Club of Charleston please visit: https://www.countryclubofcharleston.com/

 

Executive Search: General Manager for Royal Colwood Golf Club

Date:

General Manager
Royal Colwood Golf Club

Apply Now

Royal Colwood Golf Club is a private golf club located in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. Designed by Arthur Vernon Macan in 1913, Royal Colwood is a traditional style parkland championship course set amongst 450 year-old Douglas Firs and majestic Garry Oaks. The course continues to be ranked amongst Canada’s best. The membership of Royal Colwood includes all ages, skill levels, and walks of life, and is united by the common love for the grand game of golf. One of a select few in the world, Royal Colwood received its Royal designation from King George V in 1931. Royal Colwood members enjoy full reciprocal playing privileges at 68 private clubs, of which 42 enjoy the Royal designation, around the world.

ABOUT THE CLUB

Age of Club: 111
Entrance fee: $15,000
Annual dues: $4,500
Total Number of Members: 731
Total employees: 73

Vision, Mission, and Values:

VISION
To Be the Club of Choice on Vancouver Island

MISSION
To be the best golf club on Vancouver Island operated for the benefit of all members, their guests and future members, in a financially sound manner that promotes the game of golf, the unique heritage of our club and the benefits and responsibilities of private club membership.

VALUES

  • Community of Members – We recognize and celebrate member contributions, accomplishments, shared values and common interests.
  • Fun – Each and every day members have fun and enjoy their club.
  • Stewardship – Each generation of members leaves the club in better condition for the next generation.
  • Grow the Game – We further the development, growth and enhancement of the game of golf.
  • Accountability – We conduct our business with sound financial management practices and in a transparent, fair, and consistent manner.
  • Respect – We maintain positive and respectful relationships with employees, vendors, neighbours, local governments etc.

GENERAL MANGER RESPONSIBILITIES

Position Summary:

Reporting directly to the elected President, and thereby the Board of Directors (Board) at large, the General Manager (GM) serves as chief operating officer of the Club. In alignment with the Club’s vision, mission and values, the GM’s primary role is to lead and ensure the effective operations of the Club, to build continuously the quality of the Royal Colwood experience by the Club’s members and guests, and ensure our course continues to be ranked and known as amongst Canada’s best.

  • You will manage all aspects of the Club including; all activities; communications involving members, their guests, employees, community, government and industry; coordination of the development, and implementation of marketing programs for member recruitment and food and beverage services. You will be responsible for all operating policies and procedures, for developing, implementing, and monitoring the operating and capital budgets, and for controlling costs, and for all human resource policies and processes.
  • You will lead the management team, demonstrate modern and innovative leadership practices and will promote a positive, engaging and superior service culture. You are a pro-active, empowering leader and developer of teams, ensuring that appropriate superior standards of operation are in place and consistently executed.
  • Highly visible and interactive, you are professional in personal style, demeanor and presence, and are comfortable interacting with our members, guests, staff and all other stakeholders. You possess proven experience leading a team of friendly, engaging and passionate staff who are sincere about delivering an excellent member experience. Extensive and progressive management experience in a well-regarded hospitality, private club or exceptional member/guest service environment is required. Experience leading a golf club will be a definite asset.
  • You must be able to demonstrate strong financial literacy, proven skills relevant to success in a changing golf club world, and have an intuitive strength in building consensus, setting clear and measurable goals, and executing effectively to meet these targets. You understand the elements of good governance, best practices, human resource management and legislative responsibilities. Leader and developer of teams, ensuring that appropriate superior standards of operation are in place and consistently executed.

The GM will be responsible for the following:

  • Implements and administers all policies and direction established by the Board and provides strategic advice and recommendations to the Board and Committees about all matters of operation. Attends and records meetings of the Club’s Executive Committee and Board and coordinates and serves as ex-officio member of appropriate Club committees.
  • In alignment with Board direction and approval, leads development of the Club’s annual business plan and provides regular reports to the Board on progress.
  • For effective Club operations, develops, implements and evaluates operational policies, programs, initiatives, procedures and processes, ensuring the Club is operated in accordance with all applicable local, provincial and federal laws and ensuring the appropriate care and maintenance of all the Club’s physical assets and facilities.
  • Leads development of operating and capital budgets according to the budget calendar, monitors monthly and other financial statements, manages cash flow and establishes controls to safeguard funds and proposes effective corrective actions to the Board as required. This includes ensuring compliance with purchasing policies and procedures.
  • Leads development, implementation and evaluation of marketing initiatives for member recruitment and retention and ensures a strong new member orientation experience to all aspects of the Club.
  • Establishes and pursues opportunities for promotion and marketing of the Club’s facilities and services.
  • Develops and maintains a robust communications strategy for internal and external audiences to support the effective recruitment and retention of members, ensure a professional, high-quality guest and member experience, and safeguard the well-regarded reputation of the Club. This includes leadership presence and connection with members and guests and developing and implementing feedback opportunities and/or surveys of members’ satisfaction to identify actions to improve member and guest experience at the Club.
  • Represents the Club locally, nationally and internationally and communicates the Club’s positions in discussions with neighbours, community, governments, and the golf industry to enhance the prestige of the Club, protect the interests of the Club, and support the community.
  • Supervises all department heads ensuring the highest standards and effective operation of their respective departments and the effective operation of the managerial team at large. This includes developing and implementing human resources programs, initiatives, policies and procedures to ensure effective recruitment, training, development, and retention of motivated, engaged and service-oriented staff. The GM also serves as the representative of the Club as employer in negotiating the union agreement for grounds crew employees.
  • Maintains membership with the Club Management Association of Canada and other professional associations. Attends conferences, workshops and meetings to keep abreast of current information and developments in the field.

Knowledge Skills & Abilities:

  • Strong leadership and empowerment skills – demonstrating modern and innovative leadership practices to ensure a positive, engaging and superior service culture.
  • Passion for service excellence – pursues and ensures a culture of superior service through all Club operations.
  • Exceptional interpersonal skills – highly visible, interactive, personable and professional and comfortable interacting with members, guests and stakeholders at all levels.
  • Strong strategic planning and implementation skills.
  • Strong relationship builder with an intuitive strength in building consensus, fostering trust, listening to understand, and solving problems creatively.
  • Exceptional results orientation and goal setting – strong administrative/managerial skills and exceptional results orientation with the ability to translate Board direction into actions and results and executing effectively to ensure success of Club operations.
  • Strong financial literacy to effectively oversee all financial operations and ensure financial success.
  • Proven skills relevant to success in a changing golf and club industry world.
  • Proven skills providing internal and/or external data to support Board decisions and strategic direction. This is supported by developing good external and internal relationships.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Knowledge of good governance, best practices, human resource management and relevant legislation (e.g. BC Society Act, Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, BC Liquor Control and Licensing Act, BC Employment Standards)

Direct Reports:

Food and Beverage Manager; Executive Chef; Director of Finance and Administration; Head Golf Professional; Golf Course Superintendent; and Maintenance Manager.

Compensation:

The salary range for this position is $160,000 – $230,000 and commensurate with experience and qualifications. The successful applicant will receive an attractive compensation package along with a comprehensive health benefits plan and pension program.

APPLICATION

IMPORTANT: Interested candidates should complete an application, including a resume along with a detailed cover letter which addresses the qualifications and describes your alignment/experience with the prescribed position by June 10th, 2024.

The documents must be saved as a PDF (save as “Last Name, First Name, Royal Colwood).

Apply Now

Lead Search Consultants: 

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

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

 

 

 

 

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