Overview
Grasslands Club is seeking an accomplished, energetic, and highly motivated golf professional to lead its Player Development program. This is an exceptional opportunity for a talented instructor and proven program leader to shape the future of golf instruction and player development at one of Middle Tennessee's premier private clubs.
With two championship golf courses, a nine‑hole Short Course, and a state‑of‑the‑art Performance Improvement Center, Grasslands has made significant investments in facilities designed to enhance the golf experience. Our next step is maximizing those investments through exceptional instruction, innovative programming, and meaningful member engagement.
We are looking for more than a talented golf instructor. We are seeking a professional who can build programs, develop relationships, lead people, and create an instructional environment that inspires members of all ages and abilities to improve and enjoy the game.
Reporting to the Director of Golf, the Director of Player Development will have the opportunity to build a comprehensive, year‑round instructional program while leading the daily operations and continued development of the Club's Performance Improvement Center.
Located in Gallatin, Tennessee, just northeast of Nashville, Grasslands Club is a premier, privately owned country club serving approximately 1,300 member families.
Grasslands offers a comprehensive private club experience across two campuses, featuring championship golf, racquets, fitness, aquatics, dining, and social amenities.
Over the past several years, the Club has invested more than $30 million in capital improvements, transforming its facilities and positioning Grasslands for continued growth and excellence.
Our golf facilities include:
- Fairvue Golf Course: An 18‑hole championship course designed by Bill Bergin.
- Foxland Golf Course: An 18‑hole championship course designed by Bill Bergin.
- The Short Course: A nine‑hole course designed to encourage participation, introduce new golfers to the game, and provide a unique recreational and instructional experience.
- Performance Improvement Center (PIC): A five‑bay instructional and performance facility equipped with advanced golf technology, club fitting capabilities, and year‑round teaching opportunities.
- Practice Facilities: Comprehensive practice areas supporting instruction, player development, and recreational golf.
Grasslands is committed to building a club of excellence through exceptional facilities, outstanding people, and unforgettable member experiences.
Experience Required
- Minimum five years of golf instruction experience, including demonstrated success in program development.
- Minimum two years of experience leading instructional programs or supervising staff.
- PGA of America or LPGA Teaching & Club Professional membership preferred.
- Demonstrated experience developing and growing junior golf programs.
- Strong knowledge of modern golf instruction, swing analysis, and instructional technology.
- Experience with launch monitors, club fitting, and golf performance technology preferred.
- Previous experience at a private club or premier golf facility preferred.
- Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work a flexible schedule, including weekends, holidays, and evenings as programming requires.
Essential Responsibilities
The Director of Player Development will provide leadership and direction for all golf instruction, player development programming, and Performance Improvement Center operations, including managing staff and merchandise operation.
This individual will be responsible for creating an engaging, organized, and financially successful instructional program that serves the diverse interests and abilities of the Club's membership.
The successful candidate will combine exceptional teaching skills with the organizational discipline, leadership presence, and business acumen necessary to develop and execute a comprehensive player development strategy.
Instruction and Player Development
- Lead and deliver high-quality private instruction, group lessons, clinics, golf schools, and specialized instructional programs.
- Develop a comprehensive, year‑round player development calendar serving juniors, women, beginners, families, and experienced golfers.
- Build and expand junior golf programming, including camps, academies, leagues, and competitive development opportunities.
- Create innovative programs that encourage new participation and strengthen long‑term engagement in golf.
- Establish instructional standards and support the professional development of other golf instructors.
Performance Improvement Center Leadership
- Oversee the daily operations, programming, and overall performance of the Performance Improvement Center.
- Maximize facility utilization through private instruction, group programming, club fitting, and member activities.
- Manage instructional technology, teaching resources, scheduling, and facility readiness.
- Lead club fitting operations and oversee PIC merchandise sales and inventory.
- Develop programs that position the PIC as a central hub for golf instruction, player development, and member engagement.
Short Course Programming
- Develop instructional programs and recreational activities that fully utilize the Club's nine‑hole Short Course.
- Create opportunities for junior golfers, beginners, women, and families to develop skills and gain confidence.
- Introduce clinics, leagues, competitions, and special events that encourage participation and enhance the member experience.
Leadership and Operational Excellence
- Develop and execute an annual Player Development strategy aligned with the Golf Department's goals.
- Establish quarterly programming calendars and ensure programs are thoroughly planned, communicated, staffed, and executed.
- Recruit, train, mentor, and supervise instructional and program staff as assigned.
- Work collaboratively with Golf Operations, Membership, and Marketing & Communications to coordinate and promote programs.
- Establish clear operating procedures, performance expectations, and accountability.
- Evaluate participation, member satisfaction, program effectiveness, and financial performance to drive continuous improvement.
Financial Performance and Business Development
- Develop and manage the Player Development operating budget.
- Grow instructional revenue through private lessons, group programming, junior development, and specialized offerings.
- Maximize PIC utilization, club fitting opportunities, and related merchandise sales.
- Monitor program participation, pricing, expenses, and profitability.
- Identify opportunities to expand participation and create sustainable revenue growth while maintaining an exceptional member experience.
We are seeking a professional who demonstrates:
- Exceptional Teaching Ability: A strong instructional background and demonstrated success helping golfers of varying ages and abilities improve.
- Leadership and Initiative: The confidence and ability to take ownership, lead others, and turn ideas into successful programs.
- Organization and Execution: Strong planning, communication, and follow-through, with an unwavering commitment to delivering programs at a high standard.
- Member Engagement: An engaging personality, professional presence, and genuine ability to build relationships with members and families.
- Business Acumen: An understanding of instructional revenue, program development, facility utilization, and financial accountability.
- Innovation and Creativity: The ability to introduce fresh ideas, develop new programs, and generate enthusiasm for golf.
- Teamwork and Collaboration: A willingness to work across departments and contribute positively to the Club's culture.
Benefits
Mental, Dental, Vision, 401K