Tag: General Manager

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

 

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

 

 

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