The Opportunity
Ilkley is a historic golf club, known for being a true test of golf. The course is built around the sparkle of the River Wharfe and framed by the majestic Ilkley Moors. With a handful of transformational plans on the horizon, Ilkley Golf Club are seeking the stewardship of an exceptional General Manager to lead the club into its next phase of growth and excellence.
The General Manager will be responsible for overseeing the overall operation and strategic direction of Ilkley Golf Club. This includes managing all aspects of the club’s activities, including golf course operations, membership services, club facilities and staff, whilst ensuring high-quality member and visitor experiences. The General Manager will work closely with the Committee to develop and implement policies, and initiatives to promote the club’s growth and financial sustainability.
The Club
Located in the beautiful Wharfe Valley, with the famous Ilkley Moor as a backdrop, Ilkley Golf Club is one of the most picturesque in the UK. The Club has more than 549 members and attracts a large number of visitors each year.
Formed in 1890, Ilkley is the third oldest golf club in Yorkshire and steeped in history. Over the years some of the greatest golf architects have advised on course design, including Harry Colt and Alister MacKenzie - who was a member. In 1926, months prior to his famous engagements at Royal Melbourne Golf Club and Cypress Point, Mackenzie revisited to perfect the 15th hole and lay out a comprehensive plan for the whole course.
The Role
Strategic Leadership
Develop and execute strategic initiatives aligned with the club's long-term goals, ensuring the delivery of exceptional service and operational excellence.
Financial Management
Oversee and optimise all financial aspects of the club, including budgeting, cost control, and revenue generation to ensure long-term financial stability and success.
Executive responsibility
Day-to-day management, administration and operation of the Club, including:
* The provision of first-class facilities and services to members, guests and visitors consistent with the standards, policies, procedures and ethos of a traditional private members’ Golf Club.
* The leadership of all Club staff.
* Ensuring Compliance in all statutory, legal and health and safety matters.
* Efficient Internal and external communication.
Market positioning
Take advantage of Ilkley Golf Club's world class architectural pedigree and stunning backdrop to strengthen our position in the marketplace across all consumer-facing channels.
Event & Experience Management
Oversee the planning and execution of club events and activities, ensuring they are in line with the club’s standards of excellence.
Capital Projects
Reporting to the Committee, chaired by the President, the successful candidate will oversee all significant projects relating to the development of the clubhouse and course.
The Candidate
The successful candidate will be a passionate and proven leader with a distinguished background in private club management or luxury hospitality. They will have a strong focus on service excellence and community, and possess the operational, financial, and interpersonal skills to manage an ambitious club.
The ideal candidate will have:
* Excellent management skills including strong leadership, diplomacy and communication.
* Team leadership and an ability to collaborate with multifunctional teams in working towards a common goal.
* Experience of marketing, business development and growing revenue streams.
* Demonstrable success in a similar role within a golf club.
* Sound financial and commercial acumen.
* An understanding of golf industry trends and appropriate marketing media/channels to enable you to promote the Club.
* An understanding of the golf travel industry would beneficial.
* Computer literacy relevant to the effective operation of a golf club; a working knowledge of Club V1 and BRS software.
* Working knowledge of licensing law, employment law, health and safety legislation and risk management.
* Sound knowledge of the Rules of Golf and the World Handicap System.
* A flexible approach to working to meet the demands of the position.
Remuneration
An attractive remuneration package is offered and will be commensurate with the successful candidate’s level of responsibility and experience.
Application Process
To apply, candidates should send a cover letter highlighting their relevant experience and motivation for the role and an up-to-date CV to:
The President, Ilkley Golf Club and and email it to manager@ilkleygolfclub.co.uk
Application Closing Date: 28th February 2025