Executive Search: Golf Course Superintendent, Oklahoma

 

Golf Course Superintendent
Oklahoma

ABOUT THE PROJECT
A confidential new 18-hole golf course development, located 40 minutes south of Oklahoma City, seeks a visionary Golf Course Superintendent to join at the pivotal construction phase and lead the grow-in and long-term agronomic excellence of the premier new golf course to National recognition.

Designed by a renowned architect, this exclusive course aspires to be recognized among the Top 100 golf courses in the country. The Superintendent will be an essential partner in bringing this vision to life, establishing exceptional agronomic standards from the ground up, building a team, shaping the culture, and creating a playing experience that is second to none.

This is a rare opportunity to shape a world-class playing experience from the ground up, starting with irrigation installation and construction oversight, grow-in planning, equipment selection, turf establishment, and progressing into full-scale golf course operations.

POSITION SUMMARY
This Golf Course Superintendent is responsible for the overall maintenance and turf grass agronomy of the golf course. This position involves oversight of all aspects of turfgrass management, irrigation, landscaping, equipment maintenance, and personnel. The person in this role will work closely with the ownership team, construction team, and the rest of the leadership team to create and deliver an exceptional golf and outdoor experience to players and their guests. The individual will lead, educate, and foster an environment for continuous learning and improvement.

Position Description/Requirements

SEARCH EXECUTIVES

 

Kelly Simons
Director
kelly.simons@ggapartners.com
435.655.1509

 

 

Apply Here

 

 

Executive Search: General Manager/Chief Operating Officer, Derrick Golf & Winter Club

General Manager/Chief Operating Officer
Derrick Golf & Winter Club
Edmonton, Alberta

 

The Derrick Golf & Winter Club (The Derrick) is more than just a club; it’s a community. A place where tradition meets innovation, and where members come together to create lasting memories. As the General Manager & Chief Operating Officer (GM/COO) of The Derrick, you will oversee all aspects of club operations and world-class facilities, which include a championship golf course, state-of-the-art fitness center, racket sports including badminton, tennis, pickleball, an extremely popular swimming facility, and a variety of social spaces.  You will have the opportunity to lead a dedicated team and shape the future of this iconic institution.

The Derrick is currently moving through a process to create a Master Plan to ensure the club continues to provide the value and activities relevant to its membership.  Currently this plan is in its final stages of development and will result in a five-to-ten-year program of large capital projects aimed at modernizing and expanding facilities, programming and social spaces throughout the club.  This is a very exciting time for the Derrick Club and its membership, and the new GM/COO is expected to play a significant role in the execution of the club’s Master Plan.

THE POSITION

Note: This opportunity is available as the current GM/COO Jim Hope has announced his retirement effective in early May 2025. 

The GM/COO is the most senior member of the Club’s management team reporting to the Board of Directors through the Board President. The GM/COO is responsible for delivering on the Member Experience at the Club and on its strategic and operational management. Direct reports include the Head Golf Professional, Golf Course Superintendent, Facility Manager, Director of Food and Beverage, Athletic Director, Director of Finance, and Executive Assistant/Membership Director. 

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 Here

 

 

Executive Search: General Manager, Birmingham Country Club

General Manager
Birmingham Country Club
Birmingham, Michigan

 

Birmingham Country Club: Where Tradition Meets Membership.

Birmingham Country Club is a premier, full-service family club rich in history. Tucked away in a quiet corner of Birmingham, the Club is an ideal place for members to unwind and charge up. The Club features a scenic 18-hole championship golf course, racquet and paddle courts, a competition-sized pool and diving area, fitness facilities, fine and casual dining, and a full calendar of events.

Birmingham Country Club, an exclusive family-oriented private club, proudly counts over 600 families as its members, with an impressive 85% residing within a 5-mile radius of the Club. Acknowledged by many as a cherished second home, the Club holds in high esteem the authentic care and camaraderie shared among the members. The devoted staff is unwavering in their pursuit of excellence, exemplified by team members with remarkable tenures of 15, 20, or even 30 years of dedicated service. Embracing communal, family-oriented values, we not only honor our robust history but also forge ahead, building a tradition of excellence that will endure in Birmingham for generations to come. Dining is a popular draw because members have a choice of multiple dining locations. The Club Room offers outstanding a la carte dining (80 seats). A full menu is provided in both the Founders Pub and the Maguire Bar, which is a popular gathering spot because of the panoramic view. Poolside dining includes the Dive Bar and the elevated High Dive Observation Deck, which specializes in custom pizzas.

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, Director of Membership, Golf Course Superintendent, Executive Chef, Director of Golf, Director of Operations, and Director of Racquets.

Position Description/Requirements

SEARCH EXECUTIVES

 

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

 

 

Eric Hutchison, MBA, Ph.D.
Director
eric.hutchison@ggapartners.com

 

 

Apply Now

 

Executive Search: General Manager/COO, Peterborough Golf & Country Club

General Manager/Chief Operating Officer
Peterborough Golf & Country Club

Peterborough Golf and Country Club (PGCC) was established in 1897 and is located along the Trent Canal in the heart of the Kawartha Region. In the late 1920s renowned course architect, Stanley Thompson was engaged to design the 6,472 yard, 18-hole championship layout. The PGCC is proud of its rich tradition and history and provides its more than 1,100 Members with an exceptional year-round experience, offering curling, golf, dining, and meeting facilities. The Club has made important advances in the past years – building a strong year-round member base that is committed to increasing funding for the golf course and other club improvements.

Peterborough Golf and Country Club is seeking an experienced General Manager/Chief Operating Officer to join us in Peterborough – to lead our staff and to work with our Members and our Board of Directors as we build for the future. If you are ready for the next step in your club management career and would value the opportunity to be the leader of this historic club as we continue to make it better, we welcome you to apply for this position.

POSITION SUMMARY

The General Manager/Chief Operating Officer (GM/COO) is the most senior member of the Club’s management team reporting to the Board of Directors through the Board Chair. The GM/COO is responsible for delivering on Members’ and guests’ curling, golf, and other experiences at the Club and on its strategic and operational management. Direct reports include Office Manager, Accounting Manager, Executive Chef, Food & Beverage/ Events Manager (includes Banquet/ Events Coordinator), Sports Director, Maintenance Supervisor, Greens Superintendent (includes Assistant Greens Supervisor).

Position Description/Requirements

 

SEARCH EXECUTIVES

 

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

 

 

Jeff Germond, CCM
Director
jeff.germond@ggapartners.com

 

 

 

Eric Hutchison, MBA, Ph.D.
Director
eric.hutchison@ggapartners.com

 

 

Apply Now

 

Executive Search: Director of Golf, Credit Valley Golf & Country Club

Director of Golf
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
The Director of Golf reports directly to the Chief Operating Officer 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 membership experience while driving the golf department’s success. The Director of Golf 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.

Position Description/Requirements

 

SEARCH EXECUTIVES

 

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

 

 

Jeff Germond
Director
jeff.germond@ggapartners.com

 

 

Apply Now

 

Executive Search: General Manager, The Surf Club

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

 

Michael Leemhuis, CCM, CCE, Master PGA, CMAA Fellow, Joins as a Partner of the Firm

GGA Partners, a ClubWorks company, announced today that Michael Leemhuis, M.A. Ed, CCM, CCE, Master PGA, CMAA Fellow, has expanded his role within the ClubWorks network and joined GGA Partners support the growth of the Executive Search Practice.

As a Partner at GGA Partners, Leemhuis will be focused on growing the firm’s executive search and people services practice. In his role, Michael will leverage the firms leading recruiting practices, along with his vast network of contacts to find and place top-level talent.

“Michael’s experience in the golf and private club industry will be a tremendous asset to GGA,” commented Managing Director and Partner Michael Gregory.  “His experience managing elite private clubs, coupled with his experience recruiting candidates for top clubs over the past five years, will help GGA continue to deliver the highest quality executive search services to clients.”

Leemhuis will continue in his role at ClubWorks as Chairman & Chief Executive Officer as the organization continues adding to its growing platform of leading service providers to the private club, resort, and hospitality industries.

Michael will be based in the West Palm Beach office. He can be reached via email at michael.leemhuis@ggapartners.com.

Jeff Germond, CCM, to Join GGA Executive Search Team

Jeff Germond, CCM, will join the GGA Executive Search Team effective February 1, 2024 after completion of his tenure as COO of Mississaugua Golf & Country Club.

Jeff’s experience encompasses all aspects of club management, from food & beverage to operations, finances and human resources. His vast knowledge of the inner workings of high-end private clubs and all aspects of food & beverage operations will benefit all clients who need to fill culinary and all leadership positions.

Jeff began his career as an Executive Chef with an emphasis on building and fostering high-performance teams. Over the course of his career, he had the opportunity to work at several of Canada’s premier clubs, including the National Golf Club of Canada, Hamilton Golf & Country Club and St. Catharine’s Golf & Country Club, among others. He is currently completing his tenure as the COO at Mississaugua, after which he will bring his experience and knowledge to GGA.

Jeff will be based in GGA’s Toronto office. As of February 1, 2024, he can be reached via email at jeff.germond@ggapartners.com.

Executive Search: Chief Operating Officer/General Manager for Belle Haven Country Club

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER/GENERAL MANAGER
Belle Haven Country Club
Alexandria, Virginia, USA

The Club

Belle Haven Country Club and the surrounding Belle Haven residential community began together in the early 1920’s when David Janney Howell, a civil engineer from Alexandria, purchased the land from owners Mrs. Thomas Wilfred Robinson, Sr. and her brothers. When the transaction was complete, Howell set up two corporations, one to construct a golf course and club and the other to develop a residential subdivision. The land was deeded to the Club on September 1, 1924.

The name Belle Haven is also part of history. When Scottish pioneers settled along the Potomac River in the early 1700’s, they named the settlement after their favorite countryman, the Earl of Belhaven. This early settlement thrived along the Potomac River as a port and was later renamed Alexandria. The Belle Haven Country Club has now become part of the fabric of Alexandria growing together throughout the 20th and into the 21st century.

From the modest beginnings in 1924 to the new 64,000 square foot Clubhouse, Belle Haven has grown to meet the needs of its members. The Clubhouse offers a variety of dining options including formal and informal restaurants, family dining, Bar and Bar Lounge, Terrace and Patio dining along with the Hilliard Room and the relaxing 19th Hole. For special occasions and meetings, Belle Haven offers a beautiful ballroom with views of the golf course. We host banquets and meetings in our spacious Potomac Room with spectacular views of the Potomac River.

Our Athletic Facility houses a complete fitness center and aerobics room along with five indoor DecoTurf tennis courts, a Tennis Pro Shop, Children’s Activity Center, seasonal swimming pool, men’s and ladies’ locker rooms with steam and sauna, a year-round restaurant known as the Center Court Cafe and the famous outdoor Sharks Cafe open throughout the summer season. We have eight outdoor, clay tennis courts and two seasonal platform tennis courts available for our members and their guests.

Vision Statement

To provide a lifelong haven for our members, their families and guests where they can enjoy social, dining and recreational activities in outstanding facilities with a professional staff, consistent with the expectations of our culture and traditions.

Mission Statement

To be a premier, full service, family oriented, private country club committed to excellence. 

Belle Haven Country Club Overview

  • 1105 Members
  • Initiation Fee ($85,000)
  • Annual Dues ($8,676)
  • $12.78M Gross Volume
  • $6.12M Annual Dues
  • $2.32M F&B Volume
  • $6.39M Gross Payroll
  • 244 Employees
  • 13 Board Members
  • Average age of members is 59

The COO/GM Position

The General Manager/Chief Operating Officer manages all aspects of the club including its activities and the relationships between the club and its Board of Directors, members, guests, employees, community, government, and industry. Coordinate and administer the club’s policies as defined by its Board of Directors. Develop operating policies and procedures and direct the work of all department managers. Implement and monitor the budget, monitor the quality of the club’s products and services and ensure maximum member and guest satisfaction. Secure and protect the club’s assets including facilities and equipment.

Primary Responsibilities:

  • Coordinate the development and execution of the club’s long-range and annual business plans to achieve the mission of the club
  • Prepare comprehensive operating plans and budgets, obtain approval from the board, and operate in accordance with approved budgets
  • Maintain a long-term capital budget to assure the sustained material condition of all physical assets of the club
  • Plan, develop and approve specific operational policies, programs, procedures, methods, rules and regulations in concert with board-approved policies
  • Direct the recruiting and training of all staff
  • Establish employee rules and regulations, work schedules, internal controls, and a performance appraisal system
  • Assure that the highest standards are set and achieved in providing member service and satisfaction
  • Ensure that the club is operated in accordance with all applicable local, state, and federal laws
  • Ensure compliance with regulatory and other governmental agencies that have oversight of various club assets and operations
  • Provide the board and committees with relevant information on trends and developments in the club/residential community business
  • Ensure that the committees established by the board are well-supported and operate in accordance with board-approved policies and directives
  • Oversee security, risk management, and health and safety programs to ensure that measures are in place to protect members, employees, staff, and club physical assets
  • Ensure that the board is thoroughly informed on the status of club operations, member satisfaction, and financial performance
  • Provide a comprehensive communications program that keeps all appropriate constituencies informed on relevant matters
  • Interact with local community leaders and organizations
  • Perform other duties and functions as the club board may direct that are consistent with this job description

Direct Reports:

  • CFO
  • Director, Member Services
  • Golf Course Superintendent
  • Head Golf Professional
  • Assistant General Manager
  • Director of Membership and Communication
  • Director of Tennis

Core Leadership Competencies:

  • Ability to define a simple and understandable vision of success for the management team
  • Ability to see the big picture, take stock, identify problems/needs, and conceptualize solutions/strategies
  • Ability to focus on the essentials, to attend to detail, and to follow through on decisions
  • Ability to create a sense of followership among subordinates
  • Ability to attract and develop a strong supporting management team capable of ensuring a smooth transfer of responsibility when tasks are delegated.
  • Ability to demonstrate a strong member satisfaction ethic and to interact with the membership in a frequent and friendly manner
  • Ability to articulate the highest performance and ethical standards, demand compliance, and move swiftly and positively when corrective action is warranted
  • Ability to cope with day-to-day pressures and maintain a healthy and positive culture

Candidate Qualifications:

  • A minimum of 7 years of progressive leadership and management experience in a private club, hospitality, and leisure environment.
  • A Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university, preferably in Hospitality Management or Business.
  • Certified Club Manager (CCM) or in active pursuit of designation preferred.

Note: A pre-employment drug screen and background check will be required.

Salary and Benefits:

Salary is open and commensurate with qualifications and experience. The Club offers an excellent bonus and benefit package.

Inquiries:

IMPORTANT: Interested candidates should submit résumés along with a detailed cover letter which addresses the qualifications and describes your alignment/experience with the prescribed position by Wednesday, October 27, 2021.

Documents must be saved and emailed in Word or PDF format (save as “Last Name, First Name, Belle Haven GM/COO Cover Letter” and “Last Name, First Name, Belle Haven GM/COO Resume”) respectively to execsearchus@ggapartners.com. Please email résumé with references.

Lead Search Executive

For more information about Belle Haven Country Club, please visit www.bellehavencc.com

 

 

GGA Partners and USGA to Collaborate on Golf Course Superintendent Executive Search and Placement Services

New offering combines organizations’ expertise to improve golf facilities’ ability to deliver better playing conditions and enhanced golfer experience

BLUFFTON, S.C., and LIBERTY CORNER, N.J. (April 14, 2021) – The United States Golf Association (USGA) will join with GGA Partners (GGA), an international consulting firm, to launch a new service to place top-notch golf course superintendent candidates at facilities across North America.

As part of its suite of advisory services, GGA has long provided executive search services for facility clients. The collaboration will expand the company’s offerings, with the USGA Green Section’s agronomic and maintenance expertise serving as key factors in targeting the unique needs of each golf course and identifying superintendents with matching skills who can help facilities elevate playing conditions, improve course presentation and foster sustainable practices.

“For any golf facility, the ability to hire the right talent is crucial for long-term success, and we believe in creating and maintaining partnerships with facilities,” said Patrick DeLozier, GGA’s managing director of executive search. “The stakes are higher than ever for facilities looking to hire superintendents, and they are looking for candidates with a wide variety of skills.”

Added Craig Johnston, a GGA partner: “The ability to complement our services in strategy, facility governance, finance and operations with the USGA’s agronomic strength will ensure that we can continue to support our clients with the gold standard in best practices, education, innovative products and research.”

The collaboration will allow the USGA to expand its reach and enhance its ability to inform best management practices for golf course maintenance, including resource prioritization. As part of its mission to champion and advance the game, the USGA is helping to ensure a sustainable game in which course managers are empowered to create a positive experience for their golfers.

“GGA’s values and business areas are strategically aligned with our mission,” said Matt Pringle, managing director of the USGA Green Section. “With this new joint service, we can find the best match between the needs of the golf course and the skill set of their next superintendent, while providing ongoing support to deliver outstanding playing conditions and improved golfer satisfaction.”

The joint service will utilize the USGA’s nationwide network of agronomists, whose extensive knowledge of the facilities and superintendents in their regions will be pivotal to the program’s success. They will work closely with DeLozier, who heads up the firm’s executive search practice.

To learn more, contact Patrick DeLozier at patrick.delozier@ggapartners.com or Elliott Dowling at edowling@usga.org.

 

About the USGA

The USGA is a nonprofit organization that celebrates, serves and advances the game of golf. Founded in 1894, we conduct many of golf’s premier professional and amateur championships, including the U.S. Open and U.S. Women’s Open. With The R&A, we govern the sport via global set of playing, equipment, handicapping and amateur status rules. The USGA campus in Liberty Corner, New Jersey, is home to the Associations, Research and Test center, where science and innovation are fueling a healthy and sustainable game for the future. The campus is also home to the USGA Golf Museum, where we honor the game by curating the world’s most comprehensive archive of golf artifacts. To learn more, visit usga.org.

 

About GGA Partners

GGA Partners™ is an international consulting firm and trusted advisor to many of the world’s most successful golf courses, private clubs, resorts, and residential communities. We are dedicated to helping 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, Phoenix, Arizona, Bluffton, South Carolina, and Dublin, Ireland. For more information, please visit ggapartners.com.

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