Executive Search: General Manager/COO for La Crosse Country Club

                   

General Manager/Chief Operating Officer
La Crosse Country Club
 Onalaska, WI

The Club

The La Crosse Country Club, located in Onalaska, offers country club services and programs to members in the Western Wisconsin area.

The centerpiece of this family-centric facility is the 7,181-yard Arthur Hill-designed golf course occupying two separate valleys among the rolling hills of Emerald Valley along with a spacious practice facility. Beyond golf, members can choose from a variety of other activities to entertain the entire family. The tennis center features five courts, including a stadium option with Nova ProBounce and pickleball. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, members and their families take advantage of fun in the sun at the Club’s main pool and the family pool. When it is time for a meal, members have four options including the Main dining room, Grill room, Mulligan’s bar and at the cabana bar and patio.

The Club does a robust event business and is known as a premier wedding venue available to members and non-members year-round. The elegant facility, which features both indoor and outdoor space, is available to host up to 250 guests and the experienced professional staff has a reputation for taking care of every detail.

Club Overview

  • Members – 436
  • Initiation Fee – $5,000
  • Annual Dues – $7,015
  • Gross Volume – $4.2 million
  • Total Annual Dues – $2 million
  • F&B Volume – $1.2 million
  • Gross Payroll – $1.9 million
  • Employees – 104
  • Board Members – 9
  • Average age of members – 36

The General Manager/Chief Operating Officer 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. The GM/COO coordinates and administers the club’s policies as defined by its Board of Directors, develops operating policies, procedures and directs the work of all department managers. Additional duties include the implementation and monitoring of the budget, the Club’s products and services and maximization of member and guest satisfaction. The GM/COO must also secure and protect the club’s assets, including all facilities and equipment.

Primary Responsibilities:

  • Leads the senior management team to maintain and improve the member experience and foster a unified team culture. Builds strong teams by motivating staff and leading by example. Provides direction and expectations, continuous performance feedback and recognition that leads to positive outcomes to enhance member experiences through inspiring department managers and employees. Exhibits leadership skills in team building, employee motivation and service training while promoting employee well-being. Respectful and professional in all interpersonal dealings.
  • Properly manages all aspects of the Club’s activities to ensure the highest quality standards for food, beverage, sports and recreation, entertainment, and other Club services. Reviews and initiates programs to provide members with a variety of popular events.
  • Coordinate the development and execution of the club’s long-range and annual operational plans to achieve the club’s mission.
  • 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.
  • Work with board-established committees to ensure they are well-supported and operate in accordance with approved policies and directives.
  • Performs competitive analyses of Clubs and other businesses providing member alternatives through personal observations and historical reports. Provide the board and committees with relevant information on trends and developments.
  • Oversee security, risk management, and health and safety programs to implement and manage measures put in place to protect members, employees, staff, and club physical assets.
  • Maintain clear, consistent dialogue with the board and develop a comprehensive communication program to keep appropriate constituents apprised of club operations, member satisfaction, and financial performance.
  • Operate the club 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.
  • Perform other duties and functions the board may direct that are consistent with this job description.

Direct Reports:

  • Controller
  • Director of Events
  • Golf Course Superintendent
  • Head Golf Professional
  • Director of Food and Beverage
  • Executive Assistant

Candidate Profile:

The successful candidate should possess the following core competencies, experiences, and attributes.

Leadership:

  • Ability to define a simple and understandable vision of success for the management team.
  • See the big picture, take stock, identify problems/needs, and conceptualize solutions/strategies.
  • Focus on the essentials, attend to detail, and follow through on decisions.
  • Attract and develop a strong and supportive management team capable of ensuring a smooth transfer of responsibility when tasks are delegated.
  • Demonstrate a strong member satisfaction ethic and to interact with the membership in a frequent and friendly manner.
  • Manage day-to-day pressures and maintain a healthy and positive culture.

Communication:

  • Excellent written and verbal, timely communications to appropriate constituents.
  • Encourages two-way communication from all stakeholders alike.

Service Excellence:

  • Experience as a senior leader at a private members club or other similar top tier facility, with an understanding of what it means to provide a premium member experience and a passion for delivering it.

Financial/Business Acumen:

  • Knowledge and understanding of business and financial acumen, both from an operational and a strategic perspective.
  • Strong understanding of private club governance and ability to implement strategic club initiatives.

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 preferred.
  • Certified Club Manager (CCM) or in active pursuit of designation preferred.

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

Compensation

The successful applicant will receive an attractive compensation package commensurate with experience and qualifications along with a comprehensive health benefits plan and retirement savings matching program.

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 12, 2023.

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

Lead Search Executives

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

Dee Anna Clarke
Director
GGA Partners™
deeanna.clarke@ggapartners.com

For more information about La Crosse Country Club, please visit www.lacrossecountryclub.com.

Executive Search: General Manager for Wisconsin Club – City Club

                   

General Manager
Wisconsin Club – City Club
 Milwaukee, WI

The Club

Built in 1843 by Alexander Mitchell, grandfather of General Billy Mitchell, the current City Club clubhouse has been a fixture of the rich history of Milwaukee and is listed on the National Registry of Historical Places. The Wisconsin Club is a connected community of inclusive, diverse and caring people that has everything a club can offer. We strive to provide our members and their guests with the absolute best club experience possible, highlighted by incredible personalized service. We offer an exceptional private club experience at great value. The senior staff have years of Club experience and that ongoing caring and consistency go a long way in providing personalized service to members and guests.

In addition to our top-notch facilities, members enjoy a variety of social events for all ages offering terrific opportunities to mingle with old friends or meet new ones.

**As of May 10, 2023, the members of the Wisconsin Club voted in favor of selling the Country Club. This position of General Manager is to oversee the City Club.**

City Club Facts & Figures

Reporting Relationships: This position reports to the President of the Board of Directors with a secondary reporting relationship to the Board Executive Committee and Board of Directors of 9 to 12 members. Position oversees management of a staff of 200 in the off-season, 300 in-season and a combined club membership of 1,244 including 514 regular members and 302 members in other social categories, 310 golf members and 118 pool/fitness/tennis members. The overall average age of members at 63. Note these figures reflect the membership through the end of fiscal year 2023 (October 31). Numbers will alter at the start of the 2024 fiscal year based on the number of golf and pool/tennis/fitness members that remain affiliated with the City Club as an add-on after the sale of the Country Club.

This position has direct reports from the Senior Staff, including the Chief Financial Officer, Club House Manager, Director Marketing and Communications, Membership Director, Executive Chef and Director of Transportation and Concierge Services.

Internal Relationships: This position requires relationship building and interface with Senior Staff, all full-time and part-time staff and the Board of Directors.

External Relationships: This position requires relationship building and interface with

  • the general membership of the Club.
  • the management team of Concert Golf Partners and the Wisconsin Country Club.
  • business and community leaders and community opinion makers.
  • government officials at the local, county and state level.

Budget Responsibility: After the Country Club sale, responsible for budget of $7.0 MM with $2.7 MM in revenues from membership dues $3.0 MM revenues from food and beverage; a staff of 150 and a payroll of $4.0 MM.

The General Manager Position

Serve as the Chief Executive Officer of the Club managing all aspects of the Club including its activities and the relationships between the club and its Board of Directors, members, guests, employees (staff), community, government, and industry.

Provide direction, clarity, and confidence to the end of supporting and encouraging fulfillment of the organization’s primary mission and shared vision.

Ensure that a dedicated team of professionals is in place to effectively execute the Club’s business plan and hold them accountable to meet operating standards and to achieve a high level of member satisfaction while simultaneously achieving the financial objectives of the club.

Serve as the face of the club both internally and externally.

Principal Accountabilities

  • Articulate a “Shared Vision” and provide the leadership to achieve it by motivating the entire organization.
  • Lead strategic planning and implement plan, adapting and providing solutions and a plan of action as necessary.
  • Build effective relationships and open and ongoing communications with Board, staff and general membership, business and community leaders, influential members of the community, opinion makers and with local and state government and with vendors.
  • Take a leadership role in initiating programs for increased financial and operational efficiencies.
  • Encourage team building. Develop a solid understanding throughout the organization of how the activities of team members and departmental areas of responsibility interact and impact one another and drive the shared vision of the organization and Club as a whole.
  • Create greater awareness and visibility for the Club in the community.
  • Works to promote diversity in membership development and staff hiring.
  • Increase revenue through membership development and initiatives to increase club facilities and program usage.
  • Demonstrate fiscal responsibility through prudent budget management and expense controls.
  • Instill effective and efficient management disciplines and accountability among all members of the staff.
  • Work to build synergy with staff and membership.
  • Ensure facilities are maintained and kept in prime condition including both front of house and back of house, club interiors and club grounds.
  • Ensure high standards, excellence and quality of food and beverage offerings and food service.
  • Develop effective, measurable performance metrics for implementation throughout all departments of the organization, including measurement and evaluation of staff performance.
  • Ensure the Bylaws and Code of Conduct are adhered to throughout the organization.
  • Serve as the liaison to the management team of Concert Golf Partners and the Wisconsin Country Club.

Nature and Scope (Functional Job Responsibilities)

Business Management and Leadership

Responsible for short- and long-range business plan development, Board management and governance, relationships with business, community and government leaders and leadership of the organization as a whole. Sets the standard for effective management, maintaining a high level of ethics, prudence, creativity, productivity, and innovation. Apprises the Board of trends, changing circumstances and unexpected occurrences that could call for adaptation of the strategic plan, providing solutions and a plan of action accordingly. Monitors long and short term objectives and financial reports.

Organizational Management

Develops, maintains and disseminates a basic management philosophy to guide and empower all personnel toward optimal operating results and positive employee morale to insure member satisfaction. Work with senior staff to schedule, supervise and direct the work of all employees. Provides proper and ongoing training in all club areas to ensure smiling, friendly and efficient service throughout all levels of the organization. Convene and preside over meetings with departmental managers; conduct all-facility personnel meetings. Has ultimate authority over inter-departmental, inter-club matters and implementation of policies concerning employee-employer relations. Write policy and rule directives or approve those written by department heads. Act as mentor and developer of professional talent with the staff. Interact with department managers pursuant to the appraisal, discipline, and or discharge of any employee. Ensure job descriptions and job accountabilities are in place for all salaried staff. Initiate annual performance evaluations.

Membership Development

Responsible for development and implementation of strategies to expand all classifications of membership. Welcome new members, ensure they are informed about the club and integrated into its activities. “Meets and greets” all club members as practical during their visit to the club. Gets to know the members and their desires. Ensures member satisfaction and engagement by providing members with premier friendly service, high quality casual and fine dining experiences, an exciting calendar of events and entertainment, exceptional product offerings of sports, cultural and travel experiences, informative member communications and membership recognition programs. Establish methodology to get member satisfaction input and feedback. Monitor overall membership management to ensure membership retention. Report member infractions to the Board for necessary action.

Finance and Budget Management

Responsible for preparation of annual goals and budgets for day-to-day operations and recommended capital improvements. Oversee budget management, financial reporting and annual audits. Oversee investment planning and management. Initiate revenue generating products and programs though earned revenue and contributed income. Ensure operational guidelines, best practices and fiscal accountability are implemented across all operating departments. Coordinate development of operating and capital budgets with department heads, monitoring monthly and other financial statements taking effective corrective action as needed. Install controls and cost-effective procedures related to employee payroll, purchasing, inventory management and supplies. Actively look for efficiency opportunities in all areas. Maintain an up-to-date management information system which can be counted upon for all operations of the club including online dues payment.

Revenue Generation

Responsible for revenue generation through contributed income and earned revenue including member dues and fees, member assessments and/or minimums if deemed necessary; food and beverage; branded merchandise offerings, events, and sports, cultural and travel offerings. Develop a special events annual calendar to increase revenues and member engagement. Make sure every product, program or special event has a budget in place to ensure proper pricing and profitability. Initiate a plan to increase revenues generated through catering, banquet and meeting facilities with the goal of having bookings at maximum capacity with a full calendar, thus maximizing revenues.

Operations & Management

Responsible for management of all office and administrative details of the club in a manner that is consistent with good management practices in accordance with all applicable local, state and federal laws. Plan, develop and approve specific operational policies, programs and procedures to ensure efficient club operations. Ensure that club by-laws and code of conduct are adhered to throughout the organization, making recommendations for updates as necessary. Serve as ultimate authority over all inter-departmental and inter-club matters.

Attend all meetings pertinent to management of the club including executive committee and board of directors. Serve as ex-officio member of all club committees. Oversee preparation of reports and other support materials for the board and committees. Assist leadership of the governing board in assessing progress of the club, creating solutions and providing a plan of action related to any issues of concern. Serve as liaison between all management staff and the board. Prepare and negotiate any contracts for board approval. Hire outside consultants, as needed, with the approval of the Board President and Executive Committee. Participate in community activities deemed appropriate and approved by the board of directors to enhance the prestige of the club.

Manage relationship with Concert Golf Partners and the Wisconsin Country Club regarding reciprocity arrangements and other operational issues in relation to the terms of the Purchase and Sale Agreement.

Ensure the highest standards for food, beverage, sports, travel, entertainment and other club services.

Monitor the safety of all staff and membership ensuring crisis management protocols are in place and staff properly trained to deal with weather, fire and medical emergencies, bomb threats, robberies or theft and active shooter incidents. Maintain relationship with fire, police, liquor control board, health department and other government agencies. Insure proper security measures are in place including security cameras and protocols for securing cars and property.

Oversee the care and maintenance of all of the club’s physical assets and facilities, both internal and external. Ensure proper cleanliness and sanitation of all club facilities and environments. Provide advice and recommendations to the board and building committee about construction, alterations, maintenance, materials supplies, equipment, and services. Develop and implement an annual and long range plan for interior and furniture upgrades or replacement.

Build relationships with, provide direction to, and work closely with vendors, outside contractors, firms and individuals providing services to the club. Maintain an active vendor directory across all disciplines of the club. Establish and monitor compliance of purchasing policies and procedures across all club disciplines. Direct inventory controls, purchasing, receiving, storage, maintenance and control of all products, supplies and equipment.

Provide oversight and management of transportation program including scheduling and purchasing and maintenance of vehicles ensuring all drivers are properly licensed.

Maintain membership with professional associations such as the Club Managers Association of America and attend conferences, workshops and meetings to keep abreast of current information, trends and developments in the field, and programs available to aid in club management and staff training and continued education.

Perform other duties as directed by the President of the Board of Directors.

Marketing & Communications

Responsible for overall communications and marketing plans to enhance image, visibility and awareness of the club among target audiences. Provide oversight and approval of all internal and external promotion and communications materials in support of club programs. Supervise media relations. Serve as spokesperson as required. Direct and approve content selection, writing and publishing of the club newsletter and website.

Ensure all member communications are received in a timely way to allow members to take action and ensure all programs are promoted well in advance to allow members to add them to their calendars. Maintain archives of the club including club history and chronological timeline of milestones. Direct development and management of an annual events calendar providing members and their families with a variety of events and experiences. Provide oversight of club travel program serving as traveling companion and host to members on all trips.

Food and Beverage & Food Service Management

Provide Club members with an unsurpassed excellent dining experience with well-plated, beautifully prepared, tasty food and impeccable service. Ensure menus in the Mitchell Room and Veranda and Alexanders are different from one another providing members a variety of food choices. Work in conjunction with Club House Manager and Executive Chef to ensure rotation of menus, making fresh options available seasonally and specials available daily or weekly, offering variety and new options for frequent diners. Ensure options are available for members with special dietary needs. Work with catering to provide high quality menu options for meetings, banquets, parties, weddings and events. Ensure that all food venues and events are properly staffed and that staff is well-trained to offer welcoming, friendly impeccable service.

Work with dining room managers and banquet managers to make sure all wait staff knows how to properly pace service, and how to maximize food and beverage revenues by graciously suggesting drinks, appetizers, salad and soup, wine with dinner, a second drink or other beverage, and dessert or after dinner drinks without being intrusive. Review food and beverage ordering and inventories with executive chef and beverage manager to create efficiencies and avoid waste. Ensure bars at all venues and events are stocked with top shelf liquor and high-quality house brands and that bartenders are well trained and able to accommodate any member request, including non-alcoholic choices. Ensure all dining options are priced properly for profitability.

Candidate Qualifications 

  • A minimum of 7-10 years of progressive leadership and management experience in the Hospitality Industry and Private Club Environment preferred. 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 working towards one 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 Friday, June 9, 2023. Documents must be saved and emailed in Word or PDF format (save as “Last Name, First Name, Wisconsin Club GM Cover Letter” and “Last Name, First Name, Wisconsin Club GM Resume”) respectively to: execsearchus@ggapartners.com. Please e-mail resume with references.

Lead Search Consultants: 

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

Dee Anna Clarke
Director
GGA Partners™
deeanna.clarke@ggapartners.com

For more information about Wisconsin Club, please visit www.wisconsinclub.com.

Executive Search: General Manager for Ozaukee Country Club

General Manager
Ozaukee Country Club
Mequon, Wisconsin

The Club

Founded in 1922, Ozaukee Country Club (the Club) is located in Mequon, Wisconsin, a short, 15-mile drive from downtown Milwaukee. This member-owned club is known for its challenging golf course, featuring pristine greens and fairways. The club has been honored to host several Wisconsin State Golf Association (WSGA) and United States Golf Association (USGA) tournaments, including the 2014 Wisconsin State Amateur Championship. In 2022, the Club will celebrate its 100th anniversary and host the 2022 Wisconsin State Open.

The welcoming atmosphere, beautiful grounds and personalized service are what make Ozaukee Country Club a special place. The Club’s focus is family entertainment, offered through strong youth programs that include junior golf, Kidz Klub, a swim team, and Kamp Oz. The spectacular golf course, elegant and casual dining, and outdoor bar/patio and pool complex combined with the warm, friendly atmosphere ensures that Ozaukee Country Club offers something for all seeking to enjoy the benefits of a private club lifestyle.

Club Facts and Figures

  • 378 memberships – Golf: 268, Social: 77, Other: 33 (Social Dining and Honorary)
  • Initiation fee – Golf: $15,000
  • Annual Dues: $12,235
  • $5.8M Gross Revenue
  • $2.8M Annual Dues
  • $1.6M F&B Volume
  • $2.2M Gross Payroll
  • 140 Employees in-season; 40 off-season
  • 7 Board members
  • Average age of members is 56

The General Manager Position

The General Manager reports to, and interfaces with, the Board on a regular basis to establish and implement programs, policies and procedures in accordance with the Club’s bylaws. He/she is responsible for managing all club operations, including preparation of the annual operating plan and budget, and building and leading the management team and all staff to achieve the desired results.

The General Manager coordinates all management functions, and works in concert with the Board and its committees to assist in the development of policies, programs, events, etc…, to meet the club’s near- and long-term objectives

Overseeing internal and external marketing strategies for membership growth and member engagement is a critical part of the position, as is serving as the lead coordinator of programming. The General Manager will be responsible for developing and maintaining synergy among all departments. The ideal candidate will be a capable leader with a strong presence who will maintain high visibility with the membership and staff. He/she will set the tone for consistently delivering first- class hospitality and will communicate this expectation to the entire team.

Important Individual Characteristics

  • A naturally enthusiastic personality with a passion for the club management profession.
  • A natural leadership style which promotes staff and membership engagement.
  • Ability to act as a thought partner with the board and committees.
  • 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 golf and food & beverage experiences for Club members and guests.
  • Knowledgeable and proficient in all aspects of golf shop operations and tournaments/events.
  • Effective fiscal management through delivery of actual operational and capital results in alignment with approved budgets.
  • Skilled in maintaining high visibility among members and staff as the face of the Club.
  • Strength in communicating through digital tools, including the website and social media to correspond with the staff and membership.
  • Ability to develop a world-class team with a shared vision.

Direct Reports

  • CFO
  • Head Golf Professional
  • Golf Course Superintendent
  • Maintenance and Facilities
  • Food & Beverage Manager
  • Executive Chef
  • Events and Marketing Manager
  • Recreations Department

Candidate Qualifications

  • A minimum of 5 years of progressive leadership and management experience within private club, hospitality or leisure environments. Current Assistant General Managers or Clubhouse Managers at well-recognized organizations, 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.
  • Certified Club Manager (CCM) designation preferred or working towards one.

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 Monday, November 29, 2021.

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

For more information about Ozaukee Country Club, please visit www.ozaukeecc.com.

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