Director of Golf

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The Golf Director is responsible for leading, overseeing, and optimizing all golf-related operations, ensuring that every aspect of the member and guest experience reflects the highest standards of service excellence.
This role combines strategic leadership and operational execution, ensuring seamless delivery of golf services, strong financial performance, and alignment with Discovery Land Company’s philosophy and standards.

RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE POSITION:

Golf Operations Management

• Oversee and manage all golf operations, including the golf shop, driving range, caddie services, golf cart fleet, and tournament operations.
• Ensure daily operations run efficiently while maintaining world-class service standards.
• Develop, implement, and continuously improve operational procedures and service standards.
• Enforce all golf course rules, policies, and etiquette standards to preserve the integrity of play.

Member & Guest Experience

• Deliver an exceptional golf experience for members and guests at all times.
• Actively engage with members to build strong relationships and anticipate needs.
• Address and resolve concerns promptly and professionally.
• Promote participation in golf activities and programs.

Programs & Events

• Plan, coordinate, and execute tournaments, clinics, player development programs, and special events.
• Create initiatives that enhance member engagement and participation.
• Collaborate with other departments to ensure seamless event execution.

Retail & Revenue Management

• Oversee golf shop operations, ensuring profitability and alignment with the Club’s luxury standards and member demographics.
• Analyze purchasing trends and optimize inventory management.
• Identify and develop revenue-generating opportunities within the golf operation.

Financial Management

• Prepare and manage the golf department’s operating budget.
• Monitor financial performance, including revenue, expenses, and cost controls.
• Analyze operational metrics to support strategic decision-making.
• Develop business plans and establish key performance indicators (KPIs).

Team Leadership & Development

• Lead, mentor, and develop the Head Golf Professional and golf operations team.
• Foster a culture of excellence, accountability, and service.
• Set clear goals and monitor team performance.
• Promote internal growth and professional development.

Cross-Department Coordination

• Maintain strong collaboration with Agronomy to ensure optimal course conditions.
• Work closely with other departments to deliver a seamless and elevated member experience.

Representation & Compliance

• Represent the Club at local, national, and Discovery Land Company golf events.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, safety standards, and local regulations.

Additional Responsibilities

• Perform other related duties as assigned by management.
• Responsibly use the company's fixed assets and assigned equipment.

REQUIRED ATTITUDES/ BEHAVIORS  

• Demonstrates integrity, professionalism, and discretion at all times.
• Committed to creating an inclusive, service-driven culture focused on excellence.
• Strong leadership presence with a hands-on management approach.
• Proactive problem-solver who remains calm under pressure.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to adapt to dynamic operational needs.

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE, ABILITIES, and/ or SKILLS

• Minimum 8–10 years of progressive leadership experience in golf or hospitality operations, preferably within a luxury private club or resort environment.
• PGA membership in good standing, or an equivalent professional qualification, strongly preferred.
• Proven experience managing multi-department operations with a focus on financial accountability and service quality.
• Strong understanding of golf operations, agronomy collaboration, and member engagement.
• Proficiency in Jonas, TEI, MS Office Suite, and budgeting systems.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and manage teams effectively while maintaining a high level of motivation and performance.

COMPETENCIES FOR SUCCESS IN THE ROLE

• Leadership & Team Development – Inspires teams through clear communication and accountability.
• Financial Acumen – Strong analytical and budgeting skills.
• Operational Excellence – Ensures efficient and consistent service delivery.
• Strategic Planning – Aligns operations with long-term club goals.
• Decision-Making – Demonstrates sound judgment under pressure.
• Member Focus – Prioritizes member satisfaction and relationship building.
• Innovation & Adaptability – Identifies opportunities for improvement and adapts to evolving needs.

REQUIRED EDUCATION

• Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, Hospitality Management, or related field required.
• Advanced certifications in golf management, leadership, or club operations are a plus. PGA

HEALTH AND SAFETY NEEDS

• Ability to work long hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as required.
• Frequent walking, standing, and outdoor activity across varied terrain and weather conditions.
• Occasional lifting of objects up to 25 lbs.
• Regular use of computers and office equipment for administrative duties.
• Ability to safely operate golf carts and vehicles within Club property.

About Us

About the Project - Zapotal Beach Club

Zapotal Golf & Beach Club is located on the North Pacific shore of Costa Rica in the heart of the Gold Coast.  Costa Ricans are known for their Pura Vida attitude- a “pure life” with low stress, good times, and the great outdoors. Guanacaste is one of National Geographic’s five Blue Zones and retains its allure as one of the most hospitable places in the world. Members can enjoy ad-ventures on sea and land, a leisurely round on the 18-hole Tom Fazio golf course, delight in lo-cal organic meals, and indulge in a spa treatment or a workout. Take this friendliness and infuse it into a one-of-a-kind private family community, and you get pure magic. It’s the Discovery way. Our employees use their personal talent, passion, and resources to meaningfully integrate with diverse cultures and communities to provide the highest level of guest service and be a part of creating memorable experiences. For more information about our club, please visit: https://zapotalbeachclub.com/

About Discovery Land Company

Founded in 1994 by Michael S. Meldman, Discovery Land Company specializes in building luxu-ry residential private club communities and resorts worldwide. We have grown to be the prem-ier player in the high-end resort residential niche with 20 world-class projects in our portfolio. Our communities are distinct with their own architectural styles, world-class amenities, and high levels of service.

We don’t build buildings, but rather we build settings where families can create intergenera-tional memories and enrich their lives in exquisite and untouched sanctuaries. These settings offer a casual and comfortable sense of community through outstanding clubhouses, premier golf courses, welcoming staff, world-class culinary offerings, and outdoor pursuits. To ease and enrich your experiences, Discovery holds itself to the highest service standards. Every decision we make is driven by one fundamental objective: to make the time you spend with the people you care about most not merely enjoyable, but memorable.