If you've ever dreamt of combining a passion for golf with strong leadership and business acumen, a career as a golf club general manager (GM) might be your ideal path.
The general manager role sits at the heart of a golf club's success, responsible for everything from day-to-day operations to long-term strategy.
In this guide, we explore what the role involves, how to get there, and what to expect once you're in.
What Does a Golf Club General Manager Do?
The role of a golf club general manager (sometimes called a golf course general manager) is to oversee the entire operation of a golf club.
That includes managing staff, budgets, member satisfaction, events, and long-term strategy.
It’s a hands-on leadership role, often requiring you to switch between big-picture planning and day-to-day decision-making.
Typical responsibilities include:
- Managing clubhouse operations, golf course maintenance, food and beverage, retail, and golf services
- Leading department heads and coordinating cross-functional teams
- Developing budgets, monitoring financial performance, and reporting to owners or boards
- Overseeing membership recruitment, engagement, and retention strategies
- Ensuring health and safety, HR compliance, and environmental standards
- Representing the club publicly, including with members, guests, local authorities, and sponsors
The GM is often considered the face of the club, balancing the expectations of members with the realities of running a complex business.
Job Market Insights
Demand for experienced and capable golf course managers is growing globally. As golf clubs recover and evolve following the COVID-19 boom in participation, many are investing in facilities, technology, and talent.
Clubs are increasingly looking for general managers who can offer more than operational competence - they want leaders who understand customer experience, marketing, sustainability, and innovation.
Industry trends influencing the role include:
- Increased focus on member experience and lifestyle amenities
- Digital transformation of operations and communication tools
- Greater scrutiny of financial performance and sustainability
- Workforce challenges, especially in seasonal or remote locations
- Higher standards in governance and professional management, especially in member-run clubs
While the role remains highly desirable, it is not without challenges. Managing stakeholders, responding to changing expectations, and delivering consistent service in a dynamic environment require resilience, diplomacy, and adaptability.
How to Become a Golf Club General Manager
There’s no single path to becoming a general manager, but most professionals get there through a combination of practical experience, formal training, and professional development.
1. Start with Industry Experience
Most GMs begin their careers in golf club operations. Common entry points include:
- Food and Beverage Manager
- Clubhouse or Operations Manager
- Head Golf Professional or Director of Golf
- Assistant General Manager
This on-the-ground experience provides insight into the club’s culture and teaches the coordination required to run a complex operation.
2. Gain Relevant Education
Formal education isn’t always required, but it’s increasingly preferred. Degrees in the following areas are especially useful:
- Business Management
- Sports or Leisure Management
- Hospitality and Tourism
- Event Management or Marketing
Some GMs also complete postgraduate qualifications such as an MBA to strengthen their commercial and strategic expertise.
3. Earn Professional Certifications
Certifications help you stand out in a competitive market. They show a commitment to the profession and provide access to global industry networks.
Key programmes include:
- Certified Club Manager (CCM) - Offered by the Club Management Association of Europe (CMAE) and Club Management Association of America (CMAA)
- Principles of Club Management - A popular course in the UK delivered by CMAE or GCMA
- Business Management qualifications - Offered by PGA of Great Britain & Ireland (ideal for PGA Professionals moving into management)
Ongoing CPD is a must, with regular training in HR, finance, digital tools, and customer service best practices.
Career Progression
Career progression in golf management is typically steady, with professionals moving through increasingly senior roles over time. Lateral moves between clubs - especially across borders - are also common.
Typical progression path:
- Entry-Level Manager or Supervisor
- Department Head (F&B, Membership, Golf Ops)
- Assistant General Manager
- Golf Club General Manager
- Regional Manager or Director of Operations (for group operators)
For ambitious GMs, opportunities also exist to consult, join golf management companies, or move into golf resort development or hospitality leadership roles.
Golf Course General Manager Salary
Salaries for general managers vary depending on the type and location of the club. Private member clubs and resorts tend to offer higher compensation, especially with performance bonuses.
Typical salary ranges:
- UK: £35,000 to £60,000
- High-end clubs may exceed £80,000 with benefits
- Europe: €50,000 to €90,000
- Resort and multinational group roles can exceed €100,000
- USA: $60,000 to $250,000+
- Country clubs and private estates may offer bonuses, housing, and other perks
Common benefits include: pension contributions, club membership, healthcare, relocation support, and professional development allowances.
Key Skills and Considerations
Beyond qualifications, successful GMs bring a well-rounded skill set and the ability to handle pressure, politics, and people with equal care.
Critical attributes include:
- Strong communication and people management skills
- Strategic thinking and commercial awareness
- Financial literacy and budgeting capabilities
- Tech-savviness with club management software and CRMs
- A flexible, can-do approach to problem-solving
The role often involves long hours, weekend shifts, and high visibility within the club - so it’s important to ensure work-life balance and mental resilience.
The golf club general manager role is one of the most dynamic leadership positions in sport and hospitality.
For those who combine business sense with a deep understanding of the game, it offers a fulfilling, high-impact career path.
With the right mix of experience, education, and attitude, you can rise through the ranks to lead a successful golf club - and help shape its legacy for years to come.