Executive Search: Assistant General Manager for Biltmore Forest Country Club

                   

Assistant General Manager
Biltmore Forest Country Club
 Asheville, NC

The Club

From the earliest days of the Roaring Twenties, Biltmore Forest Country Club has played a significant role in the distinguished social history of Asheville and the Carolinas.

Founded in 1922, the Club is situated on 135 acres in the town of Biltmore Forest, a planned residential community in North Carolina with a culture rich history. Biltmore Forest Country Club features a pristine Donald Ross golf course, an elegant Clubhouse, fitness center, tennis facilities, pool and offers a wide variety of member activities.

The clubhouse, covering nearly 48,000 sq. ft., is the center of activities for our members. In addition to the golf shop, fitness center and separate locker rooms for men and women, members enjoy dining and socializing in the Club Room, Main Dining Room, Turn Room, Men’s Locker Room Bar, Jake’s Bar, Grill Room and Porch, Terrace and in private meeting rooms. The clubhouse also features 19 guest rooms to accommodate members and guests.

The Club is currently completing construction of a new athletic complex to include a state-of-the art fitness facility, swimming pool, poolhouse, tennis courts and tennis shop. The tennis facility will include four outdoor Har-Tru courts and one hard tennis court. The pool facility will feature a 25-yard pool and a zero-entry pool. The Pool Grill, including an outdoor bar, will offer many options for casual and poolside dining.

The Club excels in providing an incredible dining experience for members in both casual and formal settings along with special events such as wine-tasting dinners, Sunday brunch and holiday gatherings.

The Club has been recognized by Club Leader’s Forum as a Platinum Club of America®, a distinction awarded to the top 3% of private clubs. The golf course is ranked #12 in the state of North Carolina by Golf Digest.

Biltmore Forest Country Club has been chosen by the USGA as the host site of the 2025 U.S. Senior Amateur Championship. The club previously hosted the 1999 U.S. Women’s Amateur Championship and the 2013 U.S. Women’s Mid-Amateur Championship.

Overview

  • Members – 800
  • Initiation Fee, Resident Member Golf – $60,000
  • Annual Dues, Golf – $12,400
  • Gross Volume – $13M
  • Annual Dues – $6.1M
  • F&B Volume – $3.0M
  • Gross Payroll – $6.5M
  • Board Members – 12
  • Average Member Age – 64

The Assistant General Manager Position

The Assistant General Manager (AGM) is ultimately responsible, on a daily basis, for all clubhouse, food and beverage, aquatics, recreation and facilities operations including general housekeeping in these areas. The AGM is also responsible for all aspects of the operation in the absence of the General Manager/COO and performs specific tasks as requested.

This AGM works closely with, and reports directly to, the General Manager/COO, providing quality leadership and contributing to the positive atmosphere of the Club and associated operations. He/she will also prepare annual department budgets in concert with the GM/COO.

The AGM must enhance the club culture and is responsible for the dissemination of hospitality, friendliness and goodwill among members, guests and staff. His/her goal is always to assist members and guests in the enjoyment of the facilities and activities at the Club. In addition to building relationships, the AGM also provides support to the respective committees and advisory groups. As the public face of these operations, a hands-on approach, and understanding that full member and staff engagement is critical, is required to succeed in this position.

The AGM should anticipate and provide enhanced hospitality along with superb dining and other memorable experiences for the Club’s membership and their guests. Alignment with the Executive Chef, Event Director and Food & Beverage Managers is very important in this position to ensure collaborative, innovative, harmonious relationships between front- and back-of-house operations.

Primary Responsibilities

Member Services

  • Consistent, highly visible, sincere and significant engagement with members and staff
    in the dining areas of the club is of the utmost importance. It is the ultimate responsibility of the AGM to ensure all member dining, amenities and club events are well-conceived and executed.
  • Provide quality leadership in a positive and upbeat manner for the members, guests
    and staff.
  • Create and maintain a first-class service culture throughout the club campus.
  • Listen to member and guest suggestions and resolve all complaints in areas that may include general service, employee attitude, maintenance, and presentation of the clubhouse operations.

Employee Relations

  • Oversee the seasonal recruitment, hiring and development of clubhouse and food service personnel.
  • Oversee ongoing training programs complete with up-to-date training manuals to ensure exceptional service in all parts of the club’s operation.
  • Provide for training and future development of all subordinate managers and supervisors, subject to budget approval by the General Manager/COO. Coach, counsel, and evaluate departmental staff on a consistent and ongoing basis.
  • Ensure a positive spirit and healthy work environment exists throughout all club operations, one that is free of safety risks and all forms of employee harassment.
  • Maintain an effective two-way communications program with employees to ensure they are treated in a fair, structured and consistent manner.
  • Function as an administrative and communication link between all departments.
  • Guarantee that all clubhouse employees are regularly trained and certified in areas that help guard the safety and well-being of our members, guests and other employees including, but not limited to responsible alcohol service, safe food handling, etc.
  • Help to facilitate a team environment with morale, high ethical standards and efficient use of resources to position Biltmore Forest Country Club to be a preferred employer of choice in the community.

Financial Management 

  • Work jointly with the Controller and General Manager/COO to prepare the annual operating and capital budgets for all clubhouse and service operations; assist in the management and control of operations to attain the desired results.
  • Monitor the budget each week/month and direct any corrective action, as necessary,
    to assure budgeted goals are attained.
  • Provide input to all clubhouse and service personnel regarding annual budgets, capital spending plans, fiscal controls and operational guidelines.
  • Manage all labor cost and maintain them within the constraints of the budget, and through close coordination and approval from the General Manager/COO and Controller.
  • Monitor payroll records to control overtime and maintain labor costs within budgetary guidelines.
  • Supervise the purchase, receipt, safekeeping and disbursement of operating supplies and equipment to maximize quality and profitability.

Personnel Management

  • Be approachable to staff, members and guests. Lead by example.
  • Assist the General Manager/COO in developing and implementing long-range (strategic) and annual (business) plans, operating reports, forecasts and budgets.
  • Work with Human Resources to develop long-term staffing needs for each area of responsibility.
  • Hiring, discipline, terminating and preparing all related documentation for all clubhouse and service staff.
  • Review all accidents and work with HR and Safety Committee to complete accident reports and implement improved procedures to prevent the situation from reoccurring.
  • Attend senior management meetings and carry out directives agreed upon during the meetings along with any other requests of the General Manager/COO. All actions must be carried out in a timely manner.
  • Serve as an ad-hoc member of appropriate club committees and advisory groups.
  • Possess a warm personality, a sense of humor and the ability to work effectively with all levels of the internal staff and members.
  • Work with the Executive Chef, Event Director, Food & Beverage Managers and others to develop P&L statements prior to each special event. Produce an event recap along with all appropriate documentation/history, keeping it on file for future use.
  • Work with Executive Chef on menu development and strategy for the food and beverage operation.
  • Work with the F&B team to organize and market special club events.
  • Further personal continued development as a club management professional through membership in CMAA. With the assistance and approval of the General Manager/COO participate in appropriate seminars/training programs, thereby enhancing your value and quality of services to Biltmore Forest Country Club.

Operational Responsibilities

  • Understand and abide by Biltmore Forest Country Club policies and departmental procedures. Suggest changes, and when appropriate, direct the implementation of all approved changes.
  • Provide content for, and manage, communications and marketing information for departments.
  • Assure Clubhouse operations and campus venues are run in accordance with all applicable local, state and federal laws.
  • Disseminate information effectively and coordinate activities between departments
    in a timely manner.
  • Keep the General Manager/COO informed of all potential problems and activities related to the smooth operation of the clubhouse and other food service venues.
  • Oversee inventory management throughout departments and complete a periodic china, glass and silver inventory to maintain par levels.
  • Coordinate and approve all entertainment in consultation with General Manager/COO and others.
  • Possess a sharp eye for detail in the overall management and presentation of the operation and the facility.

Candidate Qualifications

  • Minimum 5 to 7 years of progressive leadership and management experience in a private club or hospitality environment.
  • Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university, preferably in Hospitality Management or Business preferred.
  • Certified Club Manager (CCM) or in active pursuit of designation preferred.

Salary & Benefits

Salary is open and commensurate with qualifications and experience. The Club offers an excellent compensation 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  Friday, January 20, 2023.

Documents must be saved and emailed in Word or PDF format (save as “Last Name, First Name, Biltmore AGM Cover Letter” and “Last Name, First Name, Biltmore AGM Resume”) respectively to: execsearchus@ggapartners.com. Please e-mail resume with references.

All requested information, along with references, should be emailed to the address above.

 

For more information about Biltmore Forest Country club, please visit  www.biltmoreforestcc.com

Executive Search: General Manager for Pine Lake Country Club

                   

General Manager
Pine Lake Country Club
Mint Hill, NC

The Club

Celebrating it’s 70th year, Pine Lake Country Club has been a retreat for families to enjoy an active lifestyle. The centerpiece of the club is the 18-hole Gene Hamm golf course that opened for play in 1958, and renovated in 1988 by architect John LaFoy, a devotee of Donald Ross.

Distinguished by its understated elegance and traditional southern touches, the clubhouse overlooks 157 acres of natural beauty nestled in the heart of Mint Hill, NC just 15 miles from the center city Charlotte.  Alongside the clubhouse is the golf shop, range and short-game practice facility. Beyond golf, members enjoy casual and formal dining, a fitness center, six Har-Tru lighted clay tennis courts, two hard courts (one converted for pickleball courts) and a pool complex featuring an Olympic-size pool, kiddie pool and play area along with a water slide and diving board.

The club hosts a variety of weddings and events ranging in size from 25 to 225 in its three meeting rooms and on the ceremonial lawn. These spaces are also used for a wide range of social activities year-round for members and guests of all ages.  

By the Numbers

  • Members: 580 total
  • Initiation fee: Resident member golf, $10,000
  • Annual dues: $1,827,000
  • Gross volume: $4,117,000
  • F&B volume: $1,188,000
  • Employees: 75 employees
  • Board members: 11
  • Average age of membership: 55

The General Manager Position

The General Manager reports to the board and coordinates with its president on a regular basis to implement the established policies and Club bylaws.  He/she also coordinates all management functions and works in concert with committee chairs to assist in the development of proposed policies, programs, events, etc.

The General Manager develops operational policies and is responsible for the creation and implementation of standard operating procedures for all departments. This includes the preparation of the annual operating and capital budget in partnership with the club Controller.

This position requires leading the coordination of programming at the club and the development of departmental cooperation. Another critical requirement of the position is to oversee the internal and external marketing strategies for membership growth, and member engagement and retention.

A strong and visible presence will be a daily requirement to set the example for all employees to consistently treat members with warm hospitality and professional service.

[Pine Lake is currently evaluating a golf course renovation to be implemented in the next 2-3 years and the General Manager will be expected to lead renovation efforts in partnership with the Architect and Course Superintendent]

Direct Reports

  • Head Golf Professional
  • Golf Course Superintendent
  • Food & Beverage Director
  • Membership and Marketing Director
  • Executive Chef
  • Events Manager
  • Tennis Director
  • Facilities Maintenance Manager

Important Individual Characteristics

  • Ability to act as a thought partner with the board and committees.
  • Disciplined follow-through to ensure the vision and goals of the club are attained.
  • The ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
  • A natural leadership style which promotes staff and membership engagement.
  • An enthusiastic personality and passion for the club management profession.
  • Ability to cultivate a high-level of member services and satisfaction.
  • A strong understanding of how to deliver remarkable food and beverage experiences.
  • Effective fiscal management through delivery of operational and capital results in alignment with approved budgets.
  • A high level of visibility to members and staff as the face of the club.
  • Proficiency in using web and social media tools to communicate with staff and members.
  • Ability to develop a dedicated team with a shared vision.

Candidate Qualifications

  • A minimum of 5 years of progressive leadership and management experience in a private club environment. Current Assistant General Managers or Clubhouse Managers at well-recognized clubs, with verifiable records of achievement will also be considered.
  • A Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university, preferably in Hospitality Management or Business preferred.
  • Certified Club Manager (CCM) designation or pursuing preferred.

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

Salary & 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 resumes along with a detailed cover letter which addresses the qualifications and describes your alignment/experience with the prescribed position by Wednesday, October 12, 2022.

Documents must be saved and emailed in Word or PDF format (save as “Last Name, First Name, Pine Lake GM Cover Letter” and “Last Name, First Name, Pine Lake GM Resume”) respectively to execsearchus@ggapartners.com. Please e-mail resume with references.

 

For more information about Pine Lake Country Club, please visit www.pinelakecountryclub.com and find out about Pine Lake culture on Facebook and Instagram.

Executive Search: Assistant General Manager for Shelton Vineyards

                   

Assistant General Manager
Shelton Vineyards
Dobson, NC

Overview

Shelton Vineyards, located in the heart of Yadkin Valley, is the largest family-owned vineyard in North Carolina and one of the largest vineyards on the East Coast. Founded in 1999 by brothers Charlie and Ed Shelton, Shelton Vineyards spans over 400 acres, including 200 dedicated to growing several varieties of vitis vinifera grapes. The estate and acreage surrounding the vineyards includes a 33,000 square foot winery building, the Harvest Grill, a walking path, picnic area and a Hampton Inn and Suites.

The Harvest Grill offers a bistro-style atmosphere with an intimate indoor dining area and enclosed patio for al fresco meals. Open Wednesday-Sunday and featuring a menu the chef has deemed “sophisticated comfort food”, the Harvest Grill has been awarded the Triple A three diamond rating for its food, service and decor.

Shelton Vineyards also serves brides and grooms year-round, providing the picture-perfect grounds to host the ceremony and reception along with the convenience of on-site accommodations at the Hampton Inn and Suites.

As stewards of the land, Shelton Vineyards is committed to sustainable farming practices and hand-on attention to its vineyards. Its care of the vineyards along with expert winemaking techniques has produced many award-winning wines over the past 25+ years.

Shelton Vineyards Companies

  • Shelton Vineyards
  • Harvest Grill
  • Hampton Inn & Suites at Shelton Vineyards, and
  • The Village Market at Shelton Vineyards

For more information about Shelton Vineyards, please visit www.sheltonvineyards.com.

The Assistant General Manager Position

Shelton Vineyards is entering an exciting period in its history with a continued growth in the number of visitors who enjoy and appreciate everything this award-winning vineyard and estate has to offer.

The existing management team is comprised of both long-tenured employees and recent hires. The Assistant General Manager (AGM) will have operational responsibility for all sales and execution events, functions and retreats as well as involvement in the entire food & beverage operation. He or she will be expected to be highly visible and engaging with the customers, team members and vendors. The AGM will work closely with the GM and Owners, providing innovative thought leadership as the organization continues to evaluate continued investments in facilities and employees.

Job Knowledge, Core Competencies and Expectations

  • Food and beverage cost controls and operating procedures
  • Accounting
  • Menu design
  • Marketing and promotions
  • Wine, spirits and bar operations
  • Point-of-sales systems
  • Strong interpersonal and organizational skills
  • Polished, professional appearance and presentation
  • Stress and time management
  • Hire, training and maintain a strong, motivated team
  • Effective communicator at all levels
  • Knowledge of, and ability to, perform required role during emergency situations

Primary Responsibilities 

  • Develop and monitor an operating budget for the department’s revenue outlets; take corrective action as necessary to help assure budgeted sales and cost goals are attained.
  • Develop a capital budget for all necessary food and beverage equipment; recommend facility renovation needs.
  • Ensure adequate cash and charging procedures are followed with documentation reported in an accurate and timely manner.
  • Assist in recruitment, training, supervision and termination of food and beverage staff.
  • Assure effective orientation and training in place for new staff and professional development activities for experienced staff are planned and implemented.
  • Monitor employee records to minimize overtime and keep labor costs within budget.
  • Assure that all standard operating procedures for revenue and cost control are in place and consistently followed.
  • Help plan and execute external and internal marketing and sales promotion activities for the vineyard and events.
  • Approve menu items, pricing, and menu designs for all events and catering.
  • Establish quantity and quality output standards for personnel in all positions within the department.
  • Research new products and evaluate respective cost/profit benefits.
  • Monitor purchasing and receiving procedures to ensure proper quantity, quality and price for all purchases.
  • Consult daily with the Executive Chef, Catering Director, Purchasing Agent and other administrators to help ensure guest satisfaction is at the highest level and lowest cost.
  • Greet guests and oversee actual service on a routine, random basis.
  • Establish, update and maintain all required standards and procedures in a written document.
  • Address guest complaints and advise the General Manager of appropriate corrective actions taken.
  • Approve all product invoices for submission to the Accounting Department.
  • Monitor or manage physical inventory verification and provide updated information to
    the Accounting Department.
  • Responsible for the proper accounting and reconciliation of the point-of-sale and guest revenues.
  • Maintain records of special events, guest counts, food covers and daily business volumes.
  • Ensure an accurate reservation and event system is in place.
  • Audit and approve weekly payroll for their scope of responsibility.
  • Source all entertainment and prepare recap of annual layout for approval by the General Manager and Owners.
  • Establish and maintain professional business relations with vendors.
  • Work with Shelton’s Controller and/or Chief Financial Officer to identify and develop operating reports and for ongoing control of the department.
  • Serve as manager-on-duty on a scheduled basis.
  • Complete other appropriate assignments from the General Manager and Ownership.

Candidate Qualifications

  • A minimum of 5 years of progressive leadership and management experience in the hospitality, hotel, resort and/or club environment.
  • A Bachelor’s Degree or Associate Degree from an accredited college or university, preferably in Hospitality Management or Business preferred.

Note: A pre-employment drug screen and background check will be required. The position is available immediately.

Salary & Benefits

Salary is open and commensurate with qualifications and experience. Shelton Vineyards offers an excellent bonus and benefit package.

Inquiries

Interested candidates should submit résumés along with a detailed cover letter. The detailed cover letter should clearly outline your qualifications, why you would like to be considered for this position at this stage of your career and why Shelton Vineyards and the Dobson, NC area will be beneficial to you, your family, your career, and the Vineyard, if selected. The resume and cover letter should be submitted by October 12, 2022.

These documents must be saved and emailed in Word or PDF format (save as “Last Name, First Name, Shelton AGM Cover Letter” and “Last Name, First Name, Shelton AGM Résumé”) respectively to: execsearchus@ggapartners.com.

All requested information, along with references, should be emailed to the address above.

Executive Search: COO/General Manager for Highlands Falls Country Club

                     

Chief Operating Officer/General Manager
Highlands Falls Country Club
Highlands, NC

The Club

Founded in 1958, Highlands Falls Country Club is a private, member-owned club in Highlands, North Carolina. The quaint town of Highlands, NC sits at 4,118 feet in the mountains of western North Carolina and is surrounded by the neighboring states of Georgia, Tennessee and South Carolina. Highlands is a short drive from Atlanta, Greenville, Knoxville, Charlotte and Asheville. For more information on Highlands, visit www.highlandschamber.org.

Perched high atop the Highlands Plateau, where incredible views stretch for miles and miles, is Highlands Falls Country Club, a small and close-knit club community which has just completed a $3.5 million renovation of the clubhouse to expand outdoor dining and create a unique indoor/outdoor bar and grill area. With updated features, extended dining areas, and sweeping views, it serves as a stylish, luxurious gathering place for members and guests – the response from the membership has been overwhelmingly positive.

Highlands Falls offers all the amenities and activities you’d expect, and then some.  Whether members prefer golf, croquet, pickleball, tennis, bridge, fishing, swimming, dining, working out, participating in the convertible club, or a combination of all the above, they enjoy their play surrounded by mountain views, cool summer temperatures, an incredible waterfall, and folks who can’t wait to welcome you to the community.

Highlands Falls offers a newly renovated 18 holes of pure golf pleasure on a dramatically beautiful course designed by Bill Bergin, a noted golf course designer. The Club also works closely with the USGA, who have spoken highly of the course conditions. The Croquet facilities include two full Croquet lawns, and a stunning Croquet Pavilion. Highlands Falls recently hosted the USCA championships at their croquet facilities.  The Sports Complex includes a tennis center with three Har-Tru courts and four pickleball courts, all of which offer interactive programs and regular social events for all skill levels. The Club has a Fitness facility with wonderful views of mountains and lakes that includes a weight room, locker rooms, a group fitness room, and is replete with spa services, personal training, and group classes. The Pool complex includes the swimming pool and aquatic fitness activities. The Clubhouse consists of the administrative offices, kitchen, member dining areas, lounge, and banquet facilities, and offers engaging activities for all ages, such as the highly popular Bridge program and fun-filled Junior Camp.

Members love to talk about how incredible the dining experience is at Highlands Falls, which offers both casual and formal dining options, well-priced lunch and dinner menus, special theme dinners, phenomenal wine dinners, a la carte brunch every Sunday, and special dietary accommodations upon request. The kitchen is lead by executive chef Shawn Olah, who has been featured in Club + Resort Chef and Golf Kitchen magazines. Whether hosting a small private party, throwing a large private event, or entertaining special guests, Highlands Falls provides the perfect combination of private elegance and impeccable service.

Highlands Falls Country Club Overview

  • 308 Members (Golf: 218, Other: 90)
  • Initiation Fees (Golf: $65,000, Social: $55,000 )
  • Annual Dues (Golf: $13,836)
  • $5.0M Gross Volume
  • $3.6M Annual Dues
  • $1.0K F&B Volume
  • 9 Board Members serving rotating three-year terms
  • JONAS is used for accounting and POS
  • Average age of members is 73
  • Club season currently runs from May 1 to November 1
  • Club is located in the Highlands Falls community which has a separate homeowners association

For more information about Highlands Falls Country club, please visit clubhfcc.com.

The COO/General Manager Position

Highlands Falls is replacing a highly-regarded retiring 16-year leader who has strong relationships with members and staff and a passion for the food and beverage operations. The remaining management team includes a combination of long-tenured employees and recent hires.  The General Manager (GM) has total operational responsibility for the Club and reports to the president of the Club, who also chairs the Board of Directors (Board). The GM oversees a private country club with one golf course, multiple dining venues, and a broad array of other amenities including croquet, tennis, pickleball, pool, and fitness center. The General Manager will be expected to be highly visible and engaging with the membership and team members. The GM will also work closely with the Board as an innovative thought leader as the Club continues to evaluate continued investments in facilities and employees.

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
  • Manage capital projects including budgeting, contracting, scheduling and reporting regularly to the Board
  • 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 including designing a recruiting strategy that is economical and delivers consistent and appropriate staffing levels and training
  • Work with legal advisors and others to successfully recruit seasonal food and beverage and golf course maintenance employees through government regulated seasonal employee programs (e.g., H2B, F1 and J1 visa programs)
  • Build a team to deliver a strong Food and Beverage experience to a seasoned membership, many of which are seasonal members at other successful clubs
  • 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, including utility regulation, water quality, and environmental statutory law compliance
  • 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
  • Oversee new membership development initiatives and be involved in new member activities
  • Provide a comprehensive communications program that keeps all appropriate constituencies informed on relevant matters
  • Provide regular membership communications via Club email, social media updates, member meetings, and casual interactions
  • 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

  • Controller
  • Executive Assistant & Administration
  • Director of Food and Beverage
  • Executive Chef
  • Director of Agronomy/Golf Course Superintendent
  • Director of Golf
  • Director of Sports and Fitness
  • Head Tennis Professional
  • Director of Facilities and Infrastructure
  • Membership Coordinator

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 achieve results and complete tasks/projects
  • Ability to create a sense of followership among subordinates
  • Ability to attract and develop a strong supporting management team
  • Ability to demonstrate a strong member satisfaction ethic and to interact with the membership in a frequent and friendly manner
  • Ability to communicate effectively
  • Ability to articulate the highest performance and ethical standards, demand compliance, and move swiftly and positively when corrective action is warranted
  • Ability to be hands-on and very engaged when needed
  • 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 environment.
  • A Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university, preferably in Hospitality Management or Business preferred.
  • Certified Club Manager (CCM) or in active pursuit of designation preferred.

Note: A pre-employment drug screen and background check will be required. The position is available immediately.

Salary & 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. The detailed cover letter should clearly outline your qualifications, why you would like to be considered for this position at this stage of your career and why Highlands Falls Country Club and the Highlands, NC area will be beneficial to you, your family, your career, and the Club if selected. The resume and cover letter should be submitted by September 7, 2022.

These documents must be saved and emailed in Word or PDF format (save as “Last Name, First Name, HFCC GM Cover Letter” and “Last Name, First Name, HFCC GM Résumé”) respectively to: execsearchus@ggapartners.com.

All requested information, along with references, should be emailed to the address above.

Executive Search: General Manager for Camp Lake James

                         

    General Manager
Camp Lake James
Nebo,  North Carolina

The Club

Located in the beautiful mountains of North Carolina, Camp Lake James offers the ultimate in lake lifestyle. The Camp has everything members need to relax, play and create special memories with family, friends and neighbors.

Activities and amenities abound at Camp Lake James. From our outdoor amphitheater, pools (adult and kids), hot tub, disc golf course and campsites to our beach sports, fitness center and sport courts that include pickleball, tennis, bocce and shuffleboard, the biggest decision our members make it what to do next.

After a day of activities, members like to kick back at the Expo Bar, County Line Canteen or Social Hall to enjoy great food, drinks and company served with warm hospitality.

At Camp Lake James, you’ll find a staff skilled at hospitality and dedicated to providing a wide range of events and activities that appeal to all age groups. Their goal is to make each new member gathering more memorable than the last.

Members become part of Camp Lake James by owning property at one of two communities on Lake James – 1780 and Olde Wildlife. At present, approximately 60 member families are full-time residents; the remaining members consider their residence at the Camp a second home. Additionally, the Board has authority to sell a limited number of annual Recreational Licenses which grant Camp access.

Camp Lake James Overview

  • 321 members (homesites)
  • $1.60M Gross volume
  • $950K Annual dues
  • $350K F&B/Events volume
  • 25 Employees in-season; 4-6 off-season
  • 5 Board members

The General Manager Position

The General Manager reports to the Board and coordinates with the President of the Board on a regular basis. The General Manager implements the policies established by the Board of directors and the Club’s bylaws. He/she develops operational policies and is responsible for the creation and implementation of standard operating procedures for all areas. This includes the preparation of the annual operating and capital budgets and management of operations to attain the desired results.

The General Manager coordinates all management functions and works in concert with committee chairs in assisting them in the development of proposed policies, programs, events, etcetera.

The General Manager is the lead coordinator of programming and development of synergy among all departments. Overseeing the strategies for high levels of member engagement and experience is a critical part of the position.

The General Manager should have a strong presence and seek to be highly visible to the membership and staff. They set the tone for consistently treating members with first-class hospitality and communicate this expectation to the entire staff as well.

Important Individual Characteristics:

  • A naturally enthusiastic personality and passion for hospitality and excellent customer service.
  • Experience and knowledge running a year-round club with attendance fluctuations based on season.
  • A natural leadership style which promotes staff and membership engagement.
  • Ability to act as a thought partner with the board and committees and homeowners.
  • Able to step into any functional area, as needed, including budget and financial oversight, HR, F&B, Activities, and facilities management with a hands-on approach when needed.
  • The ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
  • Disciplined follow-through to ensure the vision and goals of the Club come to fruition.
  • Ability to cultivate a high-level of member services and satisfaction.
  • Possess a strong understanding of top-notch food and beverage and event experiences for Club members and guests.
  • Effective fiscal management through delivery of actual operational and capital results in alignment with approved budgets and cash flow management.
  • Maintain high level of visibility among members and staff.
  • Understands the importance of digital communication and can utilize web and social media tools to communicate with the staff and membership.
  • Ability to develop a dedicated team with a shared vision.

Candidate Qualifications:

  • A minimum of 5 years of progressive leadership and management experience in a private club or hospitality environment. Current Assistant General Managers or Clubhouse Managers at well-recognized clubs, with verifiable records of achievement will also be considered.
  • Solid experience in Resort Management and Resort Hospitality will be considered
  • A Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university, preferably in Hospitality Management or Business is preferred, but not required.

Salary & 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 resumes along with a detailed cover letter which addresses the qualifications and describes your alignment/experience with the prescribed position by Friday, May 13, 2022.

Documents must be saved and emailed in Word or PDF format (save as “Last Name, First Name, Camp LJ GM Cover Letter” and “Last Name, First Name, Camp LJ GM Resume”) respectively to: execsearchus@ggapartners.com Please e-mail resume with references.

 

For more information about Camp Lake James, please visit camplakejames.com

Executive Search: Clubhouse Manager for Governors Club

Clubhouse Manager
Governors Club
Chapel Hill, NC

Governors Club
The Club
Governors Club is a nationally recognized private club community located in Chapel Hill built around an award-winning 27-hole Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course and member-owned country club. A Platinum Club of America and Distinguished Club, Governors Club is the Triangle’s only gated golf community.

The Clubhouse serves as the social center of the community and provides members with world-class dining and events, while the Wellness Center is a separate facility dedicated to members’ health and fitness. Governors Club is committed to continually improving facilities – nearly all amenities have been renovated over the past 5 years, including a full reconstruction of the Clubhouse kitchen, casual and formal dining rooms, and bar area; expansions and enhancements to the Wellness Center gym, group fitness studios, indoor and outdoor pools; and the addition of a Pickleball facility to the tennis complex.

Governors Club members hail from across the U.S. (from almost every state) and many have lived in various countries around the world. The Club hosts more than 400 events and activities year-round—there is something for everyone.

Governors Club is governed by a Board of Directors and supported by various committees, which are responsible for setting policy. A professional management team manages daily operations and oversees a staff of more than 100 employees. The Club operates independently from the Governors Club Property Owners Association, which handles the affairs of the gated community, such as roads, signs and gate house.

Club facilities include:

Dining: The Club Room, The Nicklaus Room, The Outdoor Terrace, The Grab N Go, Summer Pool Grill (seasonal)

Golf: 27-hole Jack Nicklaus Course divided into 3 9-hole courses: The Lakes, The Foothills, and The Mountain course, Golf Practice Areas, Private Lessons

Wellness: Wellness Center, Fitness Classes, Personal Training, Indoor & Outdoor Pools

Tennis: 8 Tennis Courts (6 Har-Tru Clay courts & 2 MondoTen hard courts), Pickleball courts

Youth: KidCare, Social Events, Summer Camps, Tennis & Golf Instructional Programming

Governors Club Overview
667 memberships – (Golf: 459; Sports: 179, Social: 29
Initiation fee – Full: $45,000; Other: $20,000
Annual Dues – Full golf:  $9,840
Gross Volume – $10.37M
Annual dues – $6.62M
F&B Volume – $2.37M
Gross payroll – $4.19M
Employees – 150 in-season; 110 off-season
Board members – 9
Average member age – 64

The Clubhouse Manager Position
The Clubhouse Manager is ultimately responsible on a daily basis for all clubhouse and food/ beverage operations, including the general housekeeping over these areas. In the absence of the Assistant General Manager (AGM), the Clubhouse Manager is also responsible for all aspects of the operation and performs specific tasks as requested.

This managerial position requires working closely with, and reporting directly to the AGM, providing quality leadership and contributing to the positive atmosphere of the Club and associated operations. The Clubhouse Manager will also prepare annual department budgets in concert with the AGM.

The Clubhouse Manager will enhance the club culture and is responsible for the dissemination of hospitality, friendliness and goodwill among members, guests and staff. His/her goal is always to help members and guests enjoy the facilities and events of the Club. In addition to building relationships with Club members, guests, and employees, he/she also provides support to the respective committees and advisory groups. As the public face of these operations, a hands-on approach, and understanding that full member and staff engagement is critical, is required to succeed in this position.

The Clubhouse Manager consistently provides anticipated and enhanced hospitality along with superb dining and other food and beverage experiences for the Club’s membership and their guests. Alignment with the Executive Chef and Food & Beverage Manager is very important in this position to ensure collaborative, innovative, harmonious relationships between front- and back-of-house operations.

Primary Responsibilities

Member Services

  • Consistent, highly-visible, sincere and significant engagement with members and staff in the dining areas of the club is of the utmost importance. It is the ultimate responsibility of the Clubhouse Manager to ensure all member dining, amenities and club events are well-conceived and executed.
  • Provide quality leadership in a positive and upbeat manner for the members, guests
    and staff.
  • Create and maintain a first-class service culture throughout the club campus and its amenities.
  • Address and resolve all member and guest complaints and suggestions, general service, employee attitude, maintenance, and presentation of the clubhouse operations.

Employee Relations

  • Oversee the recruiting, hiring and development of clubhouse and various food service venue personnel.
  • Oversee ongoing training programs complete with up-to-date training manuals to ensure exceptional service in all parts of the club’s operation.
  • Provide for training and future development of all subordinate managers and supervisors subject to budget approval by the Assistant General Manager. Instill a “team player” concept in all employees. Continue to coach, counsel, and evaluate departmental staff.
  • Ensure a positive spirit and healthy work environment exists throughout all club operations, one that is free of safety risks and all forms of employee harassment.
  • Maintain an effective two-way communications program with employees to ensure they are treated in a fair, structured and consistent manner.
  • Serve as an administrative and communication link between departments in the club.
  • Guarantee that all clubhouse employees are regularly trained and certified in areas that help guard the safety and well-being of our members, guests and other employees including, but not limited to responsible alcohol service, safe food handling, etc.
  • Help to facilitate a team environment with morale, high ethical standards and efficient use of resources to position the Governors Club to be a preferred employer of choice in the community.

Financial Management

  • Work jointly with the Controller and Assistant General Manager to prepare the annual operating and capital budgets for all clubhouse and service operations; assist in the management and control of operations to attain the desired results.
  • Monitor the budget each week/month and direct any corrective action, as necessary, to assure budgeted goals are attained.
  • Provide input to all clubhouse and service personnel regarding annual budgets, capital spending plans, fiscal controls and operational guidelines.
  • Manage all labor cost payouts and maintain them within the constraints of the budget, and through close coordination and approval from the Assistant General Manager and Controller.
  • Monitor payroll records to control overtime and maintain labor costs within budgetary guidelines.
  • Supervise the purchase, receipt, safekeeping and disbursement of operating supplies and equipment to maximize quality and profitability.

Personnel Management

  • Display a strong hands-on approach and lead the staff by example. Must be approachable to staff, members and guests.
  • Assist the Assistant General Manager in developing and implementing long-range (strategic) and annual (business) plans, operating reports, forecasts and budgets.
  • Work with Human Resources to develop long-term staffing needs for each area of responsibility.
  • Responsible for hiring, discipline, termination and documentation of all clubhouse and service staff.
  • Review all accidents and work with HR and Safety Committee to complete accident reports and implement improved procedures to prevent the situation from reoccurring.
  • Attend senior management meetings and carry out directives agreed upon during the meetings along with any other requests of the Assistant General Manager. All actions must be carried out in a timely manner.
  • Serve as an ad-hoc member of appropriate club committees and advisory groups.
  • Possess a warm personality, a sense of humor and the ability to work effectively with all levels of the internal staff and members.
  • Work with the Executive Chef, Food & Beverage Manager and others to develop P&L statements prior to each event. Produce an event recap along with all appropriate documentation/history, keeping it on file for future use.
  • Work with Executive Chef on menu development.
  • Work with the F&B team to organize and market special club events.
  • Further his/her own continued development as a club management professional as a member of CMAA. With the assistance and approval of the Assistant General Manager participate in appropriate seminars/training programs, thereby enhancing his/her value and quality of services to Governors Club.

Operational Responsibilities

  • Understand and abide by Governors Club policies and departmental procedures. Suggest changes, and when appropriate, direct the implementation of change.
  • Provide content for and manage communications and marketing information for departments.
  • Assure Clubhouse operations and campus venues are run in accordance with all applicable local, state and federal laws.
  • Disseminate information effectively and coordinate activities between departments
    in a timely manner.
  • Keep the Assistant General Manager informed of all potential problems and activities related to the smooth operation of the clubhouse and other food service venues.
  • Oversee inventory management throughout departments and complete a periodic china, glass and silver inventory to maintain par levels.
  • Coordinate and approve all entertainment in consultation with Assistant General Manager and others.
  • Possess a sharp eye for detail in the overall management of the operation.
  • Report performance and financial data, e.g., weekly report to Assistant General Manager in a timely and regular manner.

Candidate Qualifications

  • Minimum 3-5 years of progressive leadership and management experience in a private club environment.
  • Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university, preferably in Hospitality Management or Business.

Note: A pre-employment drug screen and background check will be required. The position is available immediately.

Salary & 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 Friday, February 25, 2022.

These documents must be saved and emailed in Word or PDF format (save as “Last Name, First Name, Governors Clubhouse Cover Letter” and “Last Name, First Name, Governors Clubhouse Résumé”) respectively to: execsearchus@ggapartners.com.

All requested information, along with references, should be emailed to the address above.

 

For more information about Governors Club, please visit www.governorsclubnc.com

Executive Search: GM/COO at Grandfather Golf & Country Club

GENERAL MANAGER/CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
GRANDFATHER GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB

Linville, NC

 

THE CLUB

The history of Grandfather Golf and Country Club starts in 1885 when businessman Hugh MacRae first viewed the Linville River Valley and the rugged peaks of Grandfather Mountain. MacRae was so awestruck by the area’s natural beauty that he immediately wrote his father, Donald MacRae of Wilmington, N.C., for support to purchase a tract of land. The tract, which stretched from Pineola past Linville Gap, encompassed all of Grandfather and Grandmother Mountains, Linville Ridge, lnvershiel, part of Sugar Mountain, and what is now Grandfather Golf and Country Club.

Donald MacRae consented to the purchase, and along with a few other investors, including department store founder of Philadelphia John Wanamaker, Linville Improvement Company was formed. By 1889, Hugh MacRae had purchased a total of 15,570 acres, mostly from S.S. Lenoir, for whom the city of Lenoir is named.

The area quickly became a popular summer resort for golf and health and is a visual reminder of MacRae’s native Scotland. By 1944, Linville Company sold 3,000 acres to the Linville Resorts Property Owners Association. Included in the sale were the golf course designed by Donald Ross (creator of the Pinehurst Golf Club), Eseeola Lodge, horseback riding facilities, and the townsite of Linville. In 1952, the Linville Company was dissolved, and the remaining 11,000 acres were divided between four family members, including Mrs. Hugh MacRae, daughter Agnes MacRae Morton, as well as Agnes’ children, Agnes Morton Cocke Woodruff and Hugh Morton.

Aggie’s share of the lands included 1,958 acres in the Linville River Valley, two miles north of Linville. Having spent most of her summers growing up in Linville, her love of the High Country remained strong. Aggie, a three-time state ladies’ amateur golf champion, invested her inheritance, and – with the help of highly-respected golf course designer Ellis Maples and cofounders Hugh Morton, her brother, and John Williams, their friend – her vision turned to reality with the opening of Grandfather Golf and Country Club in 1968, where friendly amenities surround some of the best mountain golf in the world.

Vision Statement: “To be one of the pre-eminent, family-oriented clubs in the Southeast.”

 

 

GRANDFATHER GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB OVERVIEW

 

  • 480 Members: capital of 434, club/social of 28, legacy of 18
  • Initiation Fee of $85,000
  • Annual Dues: $18,100 for club operations and capital expenses and $4,500 for village fees
  • Budgeted total expenditures for fiscal year 2021 of $15 million (includes club, capital, and village)
  • Food and beverage volume of $1.5 million
  • Gross payroll of $6 million
  • Strong balance sheet and positive cash flow
  • 220 employees (165 seasonal, 55 year-round)
  • Nine board members plus one ex-officio
  • Average age of members is 67
  • Championship Golf Course ranked second in North Carolina and first in the West Regional ranking and first among private courses in North Carolina per the North Carolina Golf Panel
  • Club community ranked seventeenth in the top 200 resort communities in the U.S. by GolfWeek
  • Grandfather Village is an incorporated municipality

THE GENERAL MANAGER/CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER POSITION

The General Manager (GM) has total operational responsibility for the club and reports to the president of the club, who also chairs the board of directors. The GM oversees a country club with two golf courses, multiple dining venues, and a broad array of other amenities. Further, the GM has comparable responsibilities to a city or county manager as it pertains to overseeing all aspects of the incorporated municipality of Grandfather, including managing common property and infrastructure, maintaining roads, operating a state-regulated water/sewer utility, and providing security services. Finally, the GM directs a real estate operation that markets and sells residential properties within the village and that supports the attraction of new members.

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, including utility regulation, water quality, and environmental statutory law compliance
  • 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

 

  • Chief Financial Officer
  • Manager of Human Resources & Administration
  • Director of Agronomy
  • Director of Golf
  • Director of Recreation
  • Head Tennis Professional
  • Head Croquet Professional
  • Director of Security
  • Director of Facilities and Infrastructure
  • Clubhouse Manager
  • Executive Chef
  • Communications Director
  • Membership Coordinator
  • Manager of Community Housekeeping
  • Head Broker of Grandfather Club Properties

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
  • 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 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. The position is available August 1, 2021.

 

Salary & 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, May 12, 2021.

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

For more information about Grandfather Golf & Country Club, please visit www.grandfatherclubnc.com.

Executive Search: Executive Chef at Highlands Falls Country Club

EXECUTIVE CHEF
HIGHLANDS FALLS COUNTRY CLUB
Highlands, NC

 

The Club:

Founded in 1958, Highlands Falls Country Club is a private, member-owned club in Highlands, North Carolina. Perched high atop the Highlands Plateau, where incredible views stretch for miles and miles, is Highlands Falls, a small and close-knit community which has just completed a $3.5 million renovation of the clubhouse to expand outdoor dining and create a unique indoor/outdoor bar and grill area. With updated features, extended dining areas, and sweeping views, it serves as a stylish, luxurious gathering place for members and guests – the response from the membership has been overwhelmingly positive.

Highlands Falls offers all the amenities and activities you’d expect, and then some. Whether members prefer golf, croquet, pickleball, tennis, bridge, fishing, swimming, dining, working out, tennis, competing in “yacht club” races, or a combination of all of the above, they enjoy their play surrounded by mountain views, an incredible waterfall, and folks who can’t wait to welcome you to the community.

Highlands Falls offers 18 holes of pure golf fun on a dramatically beautiful course, a Croquet Pavilion, a tennis center with three Har-Tru courts and pickleball, all of which offer interactive programs and regular social events. The Club has a Fitness facility that includes a weight room, locker rooms, a group fitness room, and is replete with spa services, personal training, group classes, and a private swim complex. The Pool complex includes the swimming pool and aquatic fitness activities. The Clubhouse consists of the administrative offices, kitchen, member dining areas, lounge and banquet facilities, and offers engaging activities for all ages, such as the highly popular Bridge program and fun-filled Junior Camp.

Members love to talk about how incredible the dining experience is at Highlands Falls, which offers both casual and formal dining options, well-priced lunch and dinner menus, special theme dinners, phenomenal wine dinners, a la carte brunch every Sunday, and special dietary accommodations upon request. Whether hosting a small private party, throwing a large private event, or entertaining special guests, Highlands Falls provides the perfect combination of private elegance and impeccable service.

Highlands Falls Country Club Overview

 

  • 284 Members (Golf: 187, Other: 97)
  • Initiation Fee (Resident Member Golf: $45,000)
  • Annual Dues (Golf: $13,086)
  • $5.5M Gross Volume
  • $3.1M Annual Dues
  • $600K F&B Volume
  • 14 Employees Culinary
  • 9 Board Members
  • Average age of members is 73

The Executive Chef Position:

Highlands Falls Country Club is searching for a committed, proactive, and passionate culinary professional, an Executive Chef who would enjoy working in an exciting private club environment and can select the perfect enhancements to make a lasting impression. The Executive Chef will coordinate and oversee all aspects of the kitchen to ensure quality and consistency of the dining experience. This professional should have strong leadership skills and a proven track record in recruiting and attracting culinarians to the team. Experience in seasonal hospitality operations offering similar services is a plus.

Important Individual Characteristics:

 

  • A naturally enthusiastic personality and passion for the culinary industry.
  • Ability to hire, trains, motivates and develops a high performing team in a seasonal environment.
  • A natural leadership style which promotes an engaging, motivated staff.
  • A mind for innovation and action with an ability to act as a thought partner with General Manager and other department leaders.
  • Creativity in menu design, exhibiting an appreciation for the Club’s culinary traditions while exploring fresh and innovative culinary trends.
  • The ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
  • Disciplined follow-through to ensure the vision and goals of the Club come to fruition.
  • Ability to cultivate a high-level of member satisfaction through consistency in ding services.
  • Possess a strong understanding of top-notch food and beverage experiences for Club members and guests.
  • Effective fiscal management through delivery of actual operational and capital results in alignment with approved budgets.
  • Maintain a high level of visibility to members and staff as the face of the Club’s dining and catering programs.
  • Understands the importance of digital communication and can utilize web and social media tools to communicate with the staff and membership.
  • Ability to develop a dedicated team with a shared vision.

Additional Dining Information:

The Formal Dining Room seats up to 200 people for special events, with 120 for normal dining. Formal dining in the mountains is more casual than in typical in town clubs, as is the trend nationwide.

The Grille/Bar area seats approximately 60 people and can also accommodate 20-40 people for cocktails, not counting the bar, which can seat an additional 20 people between the indoor and outdoor bar stools. For the upcoming year, a new bar menu is anticipated to accommodate the desire for dining at the bar, especially in the fall for sporting events.

The Outdoor Dining area has been expanded to seat up to 110-130 patrons, depending on table configurations. All outdoor dining is covered and has drop down plastic curtains and heaters when to protect diners from inclement weather.

Private Events such as weddings can accommodate up to 300 people, utilizing both the indoor and outdoor spaces. For events of this size, the dining services will be closed to the membership. There are also two private meeting rooms, capable of seating up to 40 people for special events.

Candidate Qualifications:

 

  • A minimum of 5 years of progressive leadership and management experience in a hospitality environment. Current Executive Sous Chefs at well-recognized organizations, with verifiable records of achievement will also be considered.
  • Food safety certification.
  • Certification from American Culinary Federation or other hospitality association.
  • A degree from a post-secondary culinary arts program.

Note: A pre-employment drug screen and background check will be required. The position is available January 1, 2021.

Salary & 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, December 3, 2020.

Those documents must be saved and emailed in Word or PDF format (save as “Last Name, First Name, HFCC Chef Cover Letter” and “Last Name, First Name, HFCC Chef Résumé”) respectively to: execsearchus@ggapartners.com. Please e-mail résumé with references.

For more information about Highlands Falls Country Club please visit clubhfcc.com.

Executive Search: General Manager at Camp Lake James

 

GENERAL MANAGER
CAMP LAKE JAMES
Nebo, NC

The Club:

Camp Lake James is an incredible lakeside adventure center in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, just 45 minutes east of Asheville, NC, surrounded by thousands of acres of public land with access to hundreds of miles of hiking and biking trails.

Perfectly situated in the beautiful mountains of North Carolina, Camp Lake James is a private, member-owned social club which offers the ultimate in lake lifestyle. The Camp is a rustic resort where neighbors socialize, stop by for lunch or drinks on the dock, lounge by the pool or slip into the hot tub, take a paddleboard or kayak out on the lake, hit up the gym, or play lawn games and roast marshmallows at the fire pit.

The Camp has everything members and guests need to relax, play, and create special memories with family, friends, and neighbors. Members of the community spend their days kayaking or canoeing on clear mountain waters, cooling off in the pool, or unwinding around a crackling campfire while roasting marshmallows. After a day on the lake, nothing is better than kicking back at the Social Hall and getting a bite to eat at the County Line Canteen.

The expert staff at the Camp ensure that time spent here is truly memorable and the Activities Director organizes events throughout the year and plans unique, popular events for all ages. Members enjoy wine tastings, camping and ski trips, holiday parties, bonfires on the beach, movies under the stars, family sports, games, crafts, and a dinner club.

Members soak-in nature walks along the shores of Lake James while listening for native frog calls or enjoy a glass of wine during Friday nights “Drinks at the Dock” and Saturday Socials with friends and neighbors. A day at the Camp holds as much or as little diversion as they desire.

Members are warmly welcomed and enjoy resort-style amenities at Camp Lake James when they purchase a home or homesite in 1780 or Old Wildlife Club, both dazzling communities on Lake James. A limited number of recreational licenses enable others to join the Camp, affording access to a resort-style pool, outdoor spa, tennis courts, fishing pond, state-of-the-art fitness facility, and much more.

Camp Lake James At A Glance

– Social Hall & County Line Canteen
– Resort-style pool, outdoor spa, and toddler pool
– State-of-the-art indoor fitness facility
– Beach area with canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards
– Expo Center with bar, snacks, lounge and fireplaces
– Tennis and pickleball courts
– Outdoor amphitheater & fire pit
– Game room & lawn games
– Hully Gully fishing pond
– Boat docking for members
– Neighborhood trail access

Camp Lake James Overview

– 321 Member families (homesites)
– $1.80M Gross volume
– $750K Annual dues
– $600K Rental revenue
– $250K F&B/Events volume
– 25 Employees in-season; 8-9 off-season
– 5 Board members

The General Manager Position:

The General Manager of Camp Lake James is responsible for maintaining a constant focus on the Camp’s commitment to instill a culture of continuous improvement and elevation of the member experience in every area of the operation. An understanding of and appreciation for the nuances and training involved in cultivating this type of cultural environment is required.

The General Manager reports to the Board of Directors and coordinates with the President of the Board on a regular basis. The General Manager implements the policies established by the Board and the Camp’s bylaws. He/she develops operational policies and is responsible for the creation and implementation of standard operating procedures for all areas. This includes the preparation of the annual operating and capital budgets and management of operations to attain the desired results consistent with strategic vision and planning.

The General Manager coordinates all management functions and works in concert with committee chairs in assisting them in the development of proposed policies, programs, events, etcetera.

The General Manager is the lead coordinator of programming and development of synergy among all departments. Overseeing the Camp’s strategies for high levels of member engagement and satisfaction with Camp experience is a critical part of the position.

Connecting with members and staff is a top priority, the General Manager should have a strong presence and seek to be highly visible to the membership and staff. He or she sets the tone for consistently treating members with first class hospitality and communicates this expectation to the entire staff as well. The overarching focus of the General Manager, and the focus instilled in his or her team, should be on the overall member experience.

Important Individual Characteristics:

The General Manager is responsible to “lead by example”, the camaraderie and engaging nature that is seen throughout the Camp must be exemplified by the General Manager in a natural and intuitively engaging style. He/she must “walk the talk” and exhibit a passion for developing and maintain an environment of extreme hospitality.

– A naturally enthusiastic personality and passion for the club management and hospitality profession.
– A natural leadership style which promotes staff and membership engagement.
– A mind for innovation and action with an ability to act as a thought partner with the board, committees, and homeowners.
– The ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
– Experience overseeing small-scale and large-scale service and facility enhancements.
– Ability to create and implement strategic plans, with disciplined follow-through to ensure the vision and goals of the Camp come to fruition.
– Ability to cultivate a high-level of member services and satisfaction.
– Possess a strong understanding of top-notch food and beverage and event experiences for Camp members and guests.
– Effective fiscal management through delivery of actual operational and capital results in alignment with approved budgets.
– Maintain a high level of visibility to members and staff as the face of the Camp.
– Understands the importance of digital communication and can utilize web and social media tools to communicate with the staff and membership.
– Ability to anticipate how the Camp needs to evolve, done by being actively networked in the club industry and being on the forefront of trends in hospitality, club management, and lifestyle communities.

Candidate Qualifications:

– A minimum of 3-5 years of progressive leadership and management experience in a private club or hospitality environment.
– A Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university, preferably in Hospitality Management or Business.
– Active involvement in CMAA or similar organizations where there is a strong network of peers that stay actively abreast of the industry, trends, and opportunities is preferred. Possessing a Certified Club Manager (CCM) designation, or working toward achieving one, is an advantage for applicants.

Note: A pre-employment drug screen and background check will be required. The position is available October 20, 2020.

Salary & Benefits:

Salary is open and commensurate with qualifications and experience. The Camp offers a compensation package which includes a performance bonus plus full benefits.

Inquiries:

IMPORTANT: Interested candidates should submit resumes along with a detailed cover letter which addresses the qualifications and describes your alignment/experience with the prescribed position by Friday, November 13, 2020.

Documents must be saved and emailed in Word or PDF format (save as “Last Name, First Name, Camp LJ GM Cover Letter” and “Last Name, First Name, Camp LJ GM Resume”) respectively to: execsearch@ggapartners.com. Please email resume with references.

For more information about Camp Lake James, please visit camplakejames.com and lakejames.com for videos and information about the area.

 

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