At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the board of a prestigious golf centre and oversee major developments.
- Company: The National Golf Centre at Woodhall Spa, a top-tier golf facility in the UK.
- Benefits: Competitive remuneration and the chance to shape the future of golf in England.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact on golf development and community engagement.
- Qualifications: Experience in leadership roles, ideally in golf, hospitality, or sports management.
- Other info: Join a passionate team dedicated to excellence in golf and member experience.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
This is a unique opportunity for an experienced leader to become the Chair of The National Golf Centre (NGC), which is regarded as one of the best golf facilities in the UK. The new incumbent will follow the retirement of a 17-year tenured Chair who has been instrumental in delivering a significant period of development in the facilities, operating standards, and fiscal growth, leading to self-generated investment into the site of some ÂŁ10M.
The board is looking for an experienced Chair to lead the board of Woodhall Spa Golf Management (WSGM), the company tasked with operating the NGC and a wholly owned subsidiary of England Golf. They will oversee the construction and reopening of a new clubhouse and explore further opportunities to develop the NGC within the overall aims of England Golf. The new Chair of WSGM will inherit a facility and business that is well-positioned to take advantage of the upcoming improvements and a talented and committed management team capable of delivering the enhanced facilities under the guidance of an experienced and thoughtful leader.
ABOUT THE NATIONAL GOLF CENTRE AT WOODHALL SPA
The National Golf Centre at Woodhall Spa is the home of amateur golf in England and provides a first-class coaching environment for the National Squads, as well as excellent golfing facilities available to all players, whatever their handicap. The National Golf Centre encompasses two 18-hole golf courses, The Hotchkin and The Bracken. The practice facilities represent some of the finest in Europe and include: a pitch and putt course, two short-game areas, a 16-bay Toptracer driving range, two indoor coaching and club-fit studios, a dedicated putting studio, a gym, a physio room, and a squad room. Currently, the academy hosts all England-based national squad training, most regional squad training, and other elite coaching groups, which include overseas, warm-weather training. There is also a strong commercial coaching element being developed with the purpose of being a true centre of excellence that incorporates the latest developments in sports science.
The Hotchkin Course at Woodhall Spa has been privately owned by the Hotchkin family since 1919. In 1995, the English Golf Union acquired the golf course at Woodhall Spa and associated facilities to create a National Golf Centre. The Hotchkin is a renowned championship golf course that has consistently been rated in the world’s top 100 courses since records began in the 1930s. Tom Doak’s recent and subtle restoration has further enhanced the quality and reputation of the course. The Hotchkin is also rated as an SSSI, such is the rarity of the habitats that are found within this heathland environment. Created by Donald Steel, one of Britain’s foremost golf course architects of the modern era, The Bracken Course, which opened in 1998, is a contemporary classic and the perfect complement to The Hotchkin Course. The Bracken has evolved into a course of exceptional finesse that is appreciated and enjoyed every day by golfers of all abilities.
The aims of The National Golf Centre at Woodhall Spa include:
- To provide a venue for major championships
- To provide a centre of excellence for coaching the national squads
- To maintain the reputation of the Hotchkin Course in the world ranking lists
- To offer golf and facilities to England Golf members at an appropriate rate
- To continue the current relationship with Woodhall Spa Golf Club members
- To present all facilities and services to the highest possible standard
Approximately ÂŁ10 million has been re-invested back into the site including projects such as new irrigation systems, a full Hotchkin Course Renovation Programme, new buildings, additional facilities, and updating equipment and services. Construction of a new clubhouse incorporating retail, hospitality, tournament facilities and a heritage space will commence in February 2026 with a build time of some eighteen months.
CHAIR POSITION OVERVIEW
Provide strategic leadership as non-executive Chair of the Board of Woodhall Spa Golf Management Ltd, the operating company of The National Golf Centre at Woodhall Spa. Serve a fixed four-year term, ensuring continuity, stability, and effective long-term governance. Lead and support an effective Board, setting clear strategic direction while maintaining appropriate oversight of executive management. Together with the Managing Director, WSGM acts as the principal link between Woodhall Spa Golf Management Ltd and England Golf, maintaining a strong, transparent, and constructive working relationship aligned with England Golf’s values and strategic objectives. Ensure the National Golf Centre operates to the highest standards of governance, commercial performance, facilities, member experience, and national squad delivery. Bring a commercial operator perspective, ideally with a background in golf, membership clubs, hospitality, leisure, or sport, balancing elite performance requirements with sustainable commercial outcomes. Chair four Board meetings per year and take responsibility for agenda setting, preparation, review, and timely circulation of all Board papers, the effective conduct of meetings, and oversee the implementation of the WSGM Strategic Plan. Provide leadership and oversight during a major capital development phase, including the construction and opening of the new clubhouse, ensuring robust governance, risk management, and financial control. Support the executive team in identifying and evaluating future development and investment opportunities aligned with the National Golf Centre's long-term vision. Uphold the heritage, reputation, and environmental responsibilities of Woodhall Spa, including stewardship of The Hotchkin Course as a globally ranked and SSSI-designated asset. Act as an ambassador for the National Golf Centre, representing the organisation with key stakeholders and within the wider golf and sporting landscape.
REMUNERATION AND BENEFITS
The term for this position is an initial four years with a maximum term of eight years; the position is remunerated.
INSTRUCTIONS ON HOW TO APPLY
Please upload your CV and cover letter, in that order, using the link below. You should have your documents fully prepared to be attached when prompted for them during the online application process. Please be sure your image is not present on your CV or cover letter; that should be used on your LinkedIn Profile. Prepare a thoughtful cover letter addressed to the Appointment Panel at WSGM and clearly articulate your alignment with this role and why you wish to be considered for this position at this stage of your career. You must apply for this role as soon as possible but no later than Monday 16th February 2026. Candidate selections and first-stage interviews will be in late February 2026, and the second interviews in early March 2026. The new Chair should assume his/her role by the beginning of April 2026.
IMPORTANT: Save your CV and letter in the following manner: “Last Name, First Name CV” “Last Name, First Name Cover Letter – National Golf Centre” (These documents should be in Word or PDF format)
Chair of the National Golf Centre at Woodhall Spa in Lincolnshire employer: Kopplin Kuebler & Wallace
Contact Detail:
Kopplin Kuebler & Wallace Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chair of the National Golf Centre at Woodhall Spa in Lincolnshire
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the golf industry. Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about reaching out to folks on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the National Golf Centre and its recent developments. Show that you’re not just interested in the role but also passionate about the future of the NGC. Tailor your talking points to highlight how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors. This will help you articulate your vision and leadership style clearly, making you stand out as a candidate who’s ready to take the helm.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about the position. Make sure your CV and cover letter are top-notch before hitting that submit button!
We think you need these skills to ace Chair of the National Golf Centre at Woodhall Spa in Lincolnshire
Some tips for your application 🫡
Get Your CV Spot On: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role. Highlight your leadership experience and any relevant background in golf or sports management. We want to see how you can bring value to the National Golf Centre!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should be more than just a formality. Address it to the Appointment Panel and clearly explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share your passion for golf and how your vision aligns with the NGC's goals.
Follow the Application Instructions: Pay close attention to the application instructions. Upload your CV and cover letter in the specified order and format. We want everything neat and tidy, so make sure to save your documents correctly!
Apply Early!: Don’t wait until the last minute! The sooner you apply, the better. This gives us time to review your application thoroughly. Remember, the deadline is Monday 16th February 2026, so get those documents ready and apply through our website!
How to prepare for a job interview at Kopplin Kuebler & Wallace
✨Know Your Golf
Make sure you brush up on your golf knowledge, especially about the National Golf Centre and its facilities. Familiarise yourself with the history of the Hotchkin Course and recent developments. This will show your genuine interest and understanding of the role.
✨Showcase Leadership Experience
Prepare to discuss your previous leadership roles, particularly in sports or hospitality. Highlight specific examples where you've successfully led a team or managed a project, especially those that align with the goals of the National Golf Centre.
✨Understand Governance and Strategy
Be ready to talk about your experience with governance and strategic planning. The board is looking for someone who can provide oversight and direction, so think of examples where you've set clear strategies and ensured effective execution.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Think about how you would engage with various stakeholders, from members to executive teams. Prepare to discuss your approach to building relationships and maintaining transparency, as this is crucial for the role of Chair.
