Course Manager in Stratford-upon-Avon

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced and highly motivated Course Manager to lead the team at one of the most well-respected clubs in the Midlands. Stratford on Avon Golf Club is located in the heart of Stratford Upon Avon, set in beautiful surroundings, a parkland course on a subsoil of sand and gravel providing a free draining course enjoyed for 12 months of the year.

The club was established in 1894 moving to the current site in 1924 and was officially opened in 1928 by Sam Ryder. Today the club boasts a thriving and friendly private membership with a healthy waiting list. Over the last 7 years the club has prioritised investment back into the course, and as a result now provides some of the best if not the best playing surfaces in the County. Recent upgrades include the TORO LYNX Irrigation system which covers fairways, tee, greens and approaches plus our water licence for two bore holes have just been renewed for another 10 years. A new warm up area is currently being developed which includes the following:

• 3 bay covered practice net area
• New chipping green
• New putting green

In recent years the team has grown to a total of 8 staff which includes an in-house mechanic and fully stocked workshop; the fleet of machines is healthy with considerable investment to support the needs of a premier golf club.

Main Accountabilities:

• Oversee all aspects of golf course management and operations, ensuring the course is presented in excellent condition for members and guests.
• Develop and implement a comprehensive maintenance program with support from the General Manager and Golf Director, including turf management, irrigation and fertilisation.
• Manage and lead a team of greenkeeping staff providing guidance, training and support.
• Carry out regular course inspections, identifying and addressing any issues.
• Maintain main playing surfaces, such as greens, tees, approaches, surrounds, fairways, rough, and semi-rough, as well as maintenance of bunkers, ponds, woodland and tree areas, pathways and tee banks.
• Renovate worn and damaged turf, carry out spraying operations, recognising turf pests and diseases.
• Keep accurate records of maintenance activities, equipment maintenance and inventory management.

Requirements:

• Proven experience in a similar role as a Head Greenkeeper/Course Manager or deputy management role for a minimum of 4 years is required.
• NVQ Level 3 qualification or equivalent in Sports Turf Management or a related field is required.
• Thorough knowledge of modern greenkeeping equipment, industry changes and practices within fine turf management.
• PA1, PA2 and PA6a chemical application licence required and chainsaw certificates (desirable).
• Excellent leadership and team management skills with the ability to motivate and develop a diverse workforce.
• A strong work ethic and dedication to golf course management.
• Project management and organisational skills.
• Strategic and budgetary planning skills.
• Good interpersonal and communication skills.
• Knowledge of and ability to implement Health and Safety processes and legislation.
• Experience in managing capital projects and course development.
• IT literacy, including Microsoft Word and Excel, course management software, budgeting and resource planning tools.

Management structure: The Course Manager reports directly to the General Manager and sits on the Course Committee as a valued member of the management team.

Salary & Benefits:

• Competitive remuneration package which will align with CGCS recommendation based on experience and qualifications.
• BIGGA membership.
• Staff golf privileges.
• Training opportunities including funding for C2L/BTME, regional conference, time given for BIGGA events.
• Accommodation / relocation – There is a 2 bedroom flat on site which would be available to support a relocation.

To apply: If you meet the above requirements and are passionate about developing and maintaining exceptional golf course conditions, please submit your CV and cover letter to the club. Applications close on Friday 3rd April at 4pm. 1st Stage interview dates Thursday 9th and Friday 10th April. Final interview will be held on Thursday 23rd April.