Director of Golf Operations

Placements24; East London; Hybrid; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive salary + bonus structure

Hybrid work arrangement

Medical and dental insurance

Generous vacation policy

Complimentary golf privileges

Relocation assistance

Professional development support

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Director of Golf Operations for a premier East London resort. You will shape strategy, manage golf operations and lead staff to deliver world-class service and profitability.

The role requires strong financial acumen, leadership and industry savvy, with a hybrid work model blending on-site management and strategic planning.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a related field is required or equivalent.
• 8+ years in golf operations with 4+ years in a director role.
• PGA Class AA or equivalent preferred.
• Strong budget, financial planning and revenue generation experience.
• Proven leadership and team development abilities.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily golf course operations and course conditioning.
• Manage golf staff including pros, caddies and maintenance crew.
• Drive revenue from greens, tournaments, merchandise and F&B.
• Develop annual golf operations budget and ensure targets.
• Enhance member/guest experience through service and events.
• Oversee golf retail, inventory, merchandising and sales targets.
• Lead instructional programs, clinics and lessons.
• Organize high-profile tournaments and corporate events.
• Ensure compliance with safety and environmental regs.
• Collaborate with resort departments to integrate golf services.

Skills

Leadership

Budget management

Customer service

Team development

Financial planning

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Golf Course Management

Hospitality Management

Business Administration

Tools

Jonas

ForeTees

Golf Genius

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a premier golf resort located in the scenic surroundings of East London, Eastern Cape , is looking for a distinguished Director of Golf Operations. This senior leadership role is responsible for the overall management and strategic direction of all golf-related activities. The ideal candidate will possess a profound understanding of golf course management, club operations, customer service excellence, and revenue generation strategies within the hospitality and leisure industry. You will oversee course maintenance, player services, golf instruction, retail operations, and special events, ensuring a world-class experience for all members and guests. This position requires strong financial acumen, exceptional leadership skills, and a passion for delivering unparalleled service. You will be instrumental in enhancing the resort's reputation as a top golfing destination, driving profitability, and fostering a positive environment for staff and patrons. This role will involve a hybrid work model, blending strategic planning and oversight with on-site management.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the daily operations of the golf course, including course conditioning, playability, and overall aesthetic appeal.
• Manage and develop the golf professional staff, including golf pros, caddies, and maintenance crew.
• Implement and manage strategic plans to maximize revenue from green fees, tournaments, merchandise sales, and F&B outlets associated with golf.
• Develop and manage the annual golf operations budget, ensuring financial targets are met or exceeded.
• Enhance the member and guest experience through superior service, organized events, and effective communication.
• Oversee the golf retail shop, ensuring inventory management, merchandising, and sales targets are achieved.
• Develop and promote golf instructional programs, clinics, and lessons to attract and retain golfers of all skill levels.
• Organize and manage high-profile tournaments, corporate events, and social golf functions.
• Ensure compliance with all safety, environmental, and health regulations related to golf course operations.
• Collaborate with other resort departments to ensure seamless integration of golf services with other resort offerings.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Golf Course Management, Hospitality Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in golf operations management, with at least 4 years in a director-level role.
• PGA Class AA certification or equivalent is highly preferred.
• Proven experience in budget management, financial planning, and revenue generation.
• Demonstrated success in leading and developing teams.
• Exceptional customer service and interpersonal skills.
• In-depth knowledge of golf course maintenance practices, tournament operations, and golf retail management.
• Strong understanding of marketing and sales strategies within the golf industry.
• Proficiency in golf management software (e.g., Jonas, ForeTees, Golf Genius).
• Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and public holidays.

Benefits

• An attractive executive salary and performance-based bonus structure.
• Hybrid work arrangement offering flexibility.
• Comprehensive medical and dental insurance plan.
• Generous vacation and leave policy.
• Complimentary golf playing privileges and discounts on F&B and retail.
• Professional development opportunities and support for continuing education.
• Relocation assistance available.
• Be part of a renowned luxury golf resort.