Description:

COURSE MANAGER OPPORTUNITY AT HINDHEAD GOLF CLUB

Hindhead Golf Club is seeking an experienced, forward-thinking, and committed Course Manager to lead the continued development of one of the most highly regarded heathland courses in the South of England. This position has become available following the decision of the long-serving and highly regarded Course Manager to relocate abroad. During his 28 years at Hindhead, he transformed the course and played a significant role in its development. As a key member of the club’s senior leadership team, the successful candidate will be responsible for maintaining and enhancing the quality, playability, and presentation of the course to the highest possible standard, in line with the club’s ambition to be recognised as one of the finest golf clubs in the UK. The role includes an on-site property, which the successful candidate would ideally utilize. 

The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership qualities, excellent agronomic knowledge, and a deep understanding of the game of golf. They will be proactive in introducing innovative and sustainable practices, managing resources efficiently, and developing a high-performing greenkeeping team. Working closely with the General Manager and Board, the Course Manager will also play a crucial role in shaping and delivering the long-term course vision, several planned capital projects, and ensuring that members and guests enjoy an exceptional golfing experience year-round.

ABOUT HINDHEAD GOLF CLUB

Hindhead Golf Club is a stunning heathland course set beside the natural amphitheatre of the Devil’s Punchbowl in Surrey. Founded in 1904 by a group of golf enthusiasts, including Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, the course was designed by J.H. Taylor and is widely regarded as one of the most picturesque and enjoyable layouts in the country. The front nine weaves dramatically through valleys bordered by heather, pines, and seasonal bursts of colour, creating a sequence of holes that are both scenic and memorable. In contrast, the back nine presents a more understated challenge, set against elevated heathland with panoramic views of the Surrey countryside.

The course has been sensitively enhanced in recent years by the current Course Manager, his team, and contractors, following a master plan prepared by Tom Mackenzie of Mackenzie & Ebert, further refining its playability and presentation. Hindhead is consistently ranked in the Top 100 in the UK & Ireland and in the Top 40 in England by the Top 100 Golf Courses website. It has hosted prestigious events, including the Regional Open Qualifying, Senior Open Qualifying, and the English Senior County Finals. The venue is set to host the 2027 Women’s Surrey County Championships and co-host the 2027 Men’s English Senior Championship. With its combination of natural beauty, thoughtful design, and rich heritage, the club offers a golfing experience that captivates both members and visitors alike.

HINDHEAD GOLF CLUB BY THE NUMBERS

- Reports to: General Manager
- Greens Team: Nine full-time & two part-time/seasonal
- Number of holes: 18
- Practice facilities: Driving range, short game area & putting green across different locations
- Rounds per annum: Approximately 38,000
- Course architect: J.H. Taylor
- Course master-plan architect: Tom Mackenzie of Mackenzie & Ebert
- Upcoming capital projects: Irrigation system upgrade, path upgrades & more in line with a master plan
- Grass types: Poa annua, bent, fescue & ryegrass

COURSE MANAGER POSITION OVERVIEW

Key Responsibilities:

- Oversee the maintenance and presentation of the golf course to ensure consistently high standards that reflect Hindhead’s standing as a top-ranked heathland course
- Develop and implement maintenance schedules and programmes to optimise turf health, playability, and aesthetics
- Manage and supervise the greenkeeping team, including recruitment, training, motivation, and performance appraisals
- Maintain and service all course machinery and equipment, including irrigation and drainage systems, ensuring operational efficiency
- Plan and manage the control of weeds, pests, and diseases in an environmentally sustainable manner
- Collaborate with the General Manager, Board, and relevant stakeholders to develop and implement long-term strategies for course development and improvement
- Provide professional advice and support on course conditions, maintenance programmes, and capital projects, including liaising with architects and advisors
- Manage budgets related to course maintenance, equipment, consumables, and staff, ensuring effective financial control and cost efficiency
- Ensure compliance with health and safety legislation and environmental regulations, maintaining a safe working environment for staff and visitors
- Communicate effectively with members, guests, contractors, and club staff, fostering positive relationships and promoting the club’s values
- Lead meetings and contribute to regular planning and operational reviews to continuously enhance course standards and team performance
- Ensure the security of the course premises, equipment, and materials in line with club procedures

CANDIDATE EXPERIENCE, SKILLS & EDUCATION:

- Ideally, 3 years or more experience as a Golf Course Manager, Head Greenkeeper or Deputy Course Manager, with a total of 7–10 years’ experience in golf course maintenance and management
- Relevant nationally recognised greenkeeping or sports turf qualification required to fulfil the role
- A bachelor’s degree in agronomy, turf management, or a related field is preferred
- Comprehensive knowledge of current laws and regulations affecting golf course operations, including employment, health & safety, and environmental standards
- Demonstrated management experience with the ability to lead and continue to develop an established team
- Sound understanding of financial management, including budget planning, control, and cost monitoring
- Strategic and forward planning capability
- Strong communication skills across a variety of stakeholders
- A passion or strong understanding of golf
- Commitment to continuous professional development and staying updated on industry best practices and legislation
- Full, valid UK driving license

SALARY AND BENEFITS:

A highly competitive salary, education support, on-site accommodation, plus benefits.

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 Chris Donovan, General Manager of Hindhead Golf Club, and clearly articulate your alignment with this role, why you want to be considered for this position at this stage of your career, and why Hindhead and the Surrey, UK area will be beneficial to you, your family, your career, and the Club if selected.

You must apply for this role as soon as possible but no later than Friday 4th July 2025. Candidate selections will occur in mid-July, with the first Interviews scheduled for Thursday 24th and Friday 25th July 2025 and the second interview on Tuesday 26th and Wednesday 27th August 2025. 

IMPORTANT: 

 Save your CV and letter in the following manner:

 “Last Name, First Name - CV” & “Last Name, First Name - Cover Letter – Hindhead”

 (These documents should be in Word or PDF format)

Note: Once you complete the application process for this search, you are not able to go back in and add additional documents.

Click here to upload your CV and cover letter.

If you have any questions, please email Patty Sprankle: patty@kkandw.com or Michael Herd: michael.herd@kkandw.com

Lead Search Executive:

 Michael Herd

 Head of International Search & Consulting, KOPPLIN KUEBLER & WALLACE

 O: (833) KKW-HIRE, ext. 710 – United States

 M: +44 (0) 7903 035312 – United Kingdom

 michael.herd@kkandw.com