At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and manage all operations at Forres Golf Club, ensuring an exceptional experience for members and visitors.
- Company: Forres Golf Club, a historic parkland course in Moray with stunning scenery.
- Benefits: Competitive salary of £40-45k, flexible working hours, and performance-related bonuses.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a vibrant community-focused environment.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team and shape the future of a celebrated golf club.
- Qualifications: Experience in senior management, financial oversight, and a passion for golf.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 45000 £ per year.
Reporting to: Club Chair / Board of Directors
Direct Reports: Head Greenkeeper, Business Manager, Hospitality Manager, Golf Operations Team
Accountability: All Club operations, departments and staff
About Forres Golf Club
Forres Golf Club is one of the north of Scotland’s most celebrated parkland courses, established in 1889 and designed by legendary architects James Braid and Willie Park. Set in the heart of Moray, just 30 minutes from Inverness Airport, the Club offers 18 holes of outstanding year-round golf amid mature woodland and stunning scenery. Forres attracts members, visitors and societies from across Scotland and beyond, complemented by The Muiry — the Club’s welcoming bar and restaurant with panoramic views over the course. With a proud heritage and an ambitious vision for its future, Forres Golf Club is entering an exciting period of development and is looking for an exceptional General Manager to drive the Club forward.
Purpose of the Role
The General Manager is responsible for the overall leadership, operational management and commercial performance of Forres Golf Club. Working closely with the Board, Committees, Captain, Vice-Captain and staff, the General Manager will ensure delivery of an outstanding experience for members, visitors and guests whilst safeguarding the traditions and heritage of the Club. This includes a clear commercial mandate: to generate the revenue and financial resilience that enables the Club to invest in its course, facilities, people and long-term future.
Job Description and Key Responsibilities
- Strategic Leadership and Governance
- Develop and implement a Club Business Plan in alignment with Board objectives
- Advise and report to the Board and committees on operational, financial, membership and commercial matters
- Oversee member communications including newsletters, AGM documentation, Board reports and the professional management of member correspondence and complaints; conduct regular member surveys to measure satisfaction and inform service improvements
- Support the Captain, Vice-Captain and Committee Convenors in delivering club priorities
- Support the relaunch of a Junior Development Programme in collaboration with the Junior Committee and the club’s Professional Partner
- Ensure the Club operates in accordance with its constitution, governance framework and applicable legislation
- Financial Management and Commercial Performance
- Working with the Business Manager, set and be accountable for annual operating and capital budgets in line with Board objectives
- Review financial performance against budget, taking corrective action where required and presenting regular reports to the Board
- Set targets for all key revenue streams including membership subscriptions, visitor green fees, societies, competitions, functions, Golf Shop and food and beverage operations
- Ensure appropriate expenditure control whilst supporting investment in staff, facilities and equipment
- Oversee supplier relationships and contracts, ensuring value for money and cost efficiency
- Marketing, Visitor Development and Membership Growth
- Develop and implement a marketing strategy to grow visitor numbers, society bookings, Open competition and function revenue in line with Board-approved targets — delivering activity directly or through third-party support as required
- Manage and enhance the Club’s digital presence including website, booking platforms and social media to drive enquiries and conversions
- Build and maintain relationships with golf tour operators, local businesses, hotels and tourism organisations to generate bookings and partnership opportunities
- Lead member recruitment, engagement and retention initiatives to achieve membership targets
- Golf Operations
- Working with the Golf Operations Committee and providing leadership to the Golf Operations team, ensure delivery of a high-quality golfing experience for members and visitors
- Drive Golf Shop retail sales and margin, overseeing tee time management, visitor bookings and competition administration
- Support delivery of the Club’s golfing calendar and maintain effective relationships with governing bodies and industry partners
- Course and Greenkeeping
- Working with the Course Committee and providing leadership to the greenkeeping team through the Head Greenkeeper, ensure the course is maintained to a high and consistent standard
- Set targets for, and monitor, course maintenance budgets, equipment and resource allocation
- Support the development of long‑term course maintenance and improvement plans
- Keep members informed regarding course conditions and improvement projects
- Clubhouse, Hospitality and Catering
- Working with the Clubhouse and Events Committee and providing leadership to the Hospitality team, develop and oversee the Club’s events, hospitality and functions offering
- Set and monitor standards and targets for food quality, service and hospitality for members, visitors and functions
- Oversee stock control, supplier relationships and licensing compliance
- Ensure contractual obligations, service standards and commercial performance targets are met across all hospitality operations where third‑party operators are involved
- Human Resources and Team Leadership
- Provide leadership and clear direction to all teams; set performance expectations and targets and oversee staff recruitment, development and performance management
- Promote a positive and collaborative workplace culture
- Ensure compliance with employment law, health and safety, safeguarding and HR policies; oversee implementation of the Club’s Safeguarding and Child Protection policy including appropriate vetting and training
- Should Bar, Catering or Golf Shop operations be transitioned to external franchise/lease arrangements in the future, take responsibility for managing the partnership on behalf of the Club, acting as the primary point of contact between the Club and the franchisee
- Facilities and Asset Management
- Oversee the maintenance, presentation and insurance of all Club assets including the clubhouse, Golf Shop, course, practice facilities and surrounding grounds
- Support long‑term capital investment planning with the Board
- Plan seasonal operational needs and off‑season maintenance works
- Sustainability and Community Engagement
- Promote environmentally responsible practices across course and clubhouse operations
- Support engagement with relevant environmental frameworks including the Golf Environment Organisation (GEO) certification programme and the R&A’s Golf Course 2030 guidance
- Strengthen the Club’s relationships within the local community and regional golf network
Person Specification
The ideal candidate will demonstrate strength across the criteria set out below. We welcome applications from those who bring a combination of relevant experience, transferable skills and a genuine commitment to delivering an outstanding club experience, even where individual criteria are not fully met.
- Experience
- Senior management experience within a golf club, hospitality, leisure or membership‑based organisation
- Experience managing multi‑department operations and staff teams
- Experience in financial management, budgeting and commercial performance
- Experience in marketing, visitor attraction or hospitality venue promotion
- Proven ability to deliver high standards of customer or member service
- Previous experience within a golf club environment
- Knowledge of golf course management and greenkeeping operations
- Familiarity with golf management software (e.g. BRS, ClubV1 or similar)
- Knowledge of the rules of golf and the World Handicap System
- Qualification in business management, hospitality, sport management or a related field
- Experience managing outsourced services, commercial partnerships or franchise agreements
- Membership of, or willingness to join, the Golf Club Managers Association (GCMA) or equivalent professional body
- Skills and Competencies
- Strong leadership and people management ability
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
- Sound commercial judgement and financial awareness
- Strategic thinking combined with strong operational delivery
- High level of organisation, planning and problem‑solving capability
- Strong IT and digital communication skills
- Ability to work effectively with volunteer committees and governance structures
- Working knowledge of relevant regulatory requirements including employment law, licensing, health and safety and data protection
- Personal Attributes
- Professional, approachable and member‑focused
- Strong relationship builder with diplomacy and integrity
- Flexible approach to working hours in line with club operations and events
- Passion for delivering an exceptional member and visitor experience
Performance
Performance will be reviewed annually against KPIs agreed between the Board and the General Manager. These will typically include: annual operating surplus or deficit against budget; membership numbers and retention rate; visitor, society and function revenue; member and visitor satisfaction scores; staff engagement and turnover; digital and marketing performance; and delivery of agreed milestones within the Club Business Plan.
Place of Work / Hours: Based at Forres Golf Club. Flexible working pattern averaging approximately 40 hours per week, including evenings, weekends and bank holidays in line with club operations and events.
Salary & Benefits: A competitive salary and benefits package in the region of £40–45k, commensurate with experience. The package will include a performance‑related element linked to agreed KPIs.
Closing Date: Midnight on Sunday 19 July 2026
Interviews: Week commencing Monday 3 August 2026
General Manager, Forres Golf Club employer: Chestfield Golf Club
Forres Golf Club is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead one of Scotland's most celebrated golf courses while enjoying the stunning scenery of Moray. With a strong focus on employee development, a collaborative work culture, and a commitment to delivering outstanding member experiences, the Club provides a supportive environment for professional growth. The competitive salary package, coupled with the chance to shape the future of the Club, makes this role particularly rewarding for those passionate about golf and hospitality.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land General Manager, Forres Golf Club
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like Chestfield Golf Club. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Chestfield Golf Club
Don't be shy about reaching out to Chestfield Golf Club directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace General Manager, Forres Golf Club
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about Chestfield Golf Club and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at Chestfield Golf Club
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!
