Description:

Course Manager 

Thorndon Park Golf Club – Brentwood, Essex 

Thorndon Park Golf Club is seeking an experienced and inspiring Course Manager to lead the continued excellence of its Harry Colt-designed championship course, proudly recognised among England’s Top 100 golf courses. 

This is a unique opportunity to maintain and further enhance one of the country’s finest parkland courses, working with an established, skilled team to deliver world-class playing conditions throughout the year. The successful candidate will oversee the management of poa bent greens, refine the course’s turf management programmes, and uphold the Club’s commitment to sustainability, innovation, and presentation at championship standard. 

This role is ideal for a forward-thinking professional who combines agronomic expertise, team leadership, and a passion for delivering exceptional playing surfaces within a historic, scenic environment and a passion for playing golf. 

About Thorndon Park Golf Club 

Founded in 1920 and set within a magnificent 16th-century deer park, Thorndon Park Golf Club is one of Essex’s most prestigious golfing venues. The course, designed by the legendary Harry S. Colt, flows seamlessly through mature parkland framed by centuries-old oaks and natural features that provide both strategic challenge and timeless beauty. 

Thorndon Park’s heritage is matched by its ambition: maintaining the highest standards of course conditioning while continuing to strengthen its position within England’s Top 100 golf courses. 

Key Details 

Reports to: General Manager & Greens Director 

Team: Nine full-time staff + Course Manager 

Course: 18 holes | Practice: Driving range, short game area & putting green 

Rounds per annum: Approx 20,000 

Architect: H.S. Colt  

Agronomist: STRI 

Grass types: Poa, Fine Rye & Fescue Mix, Pure Fescue 

Role Overview 

The Course Manager will be responsible for: 

- Presenting all 18 holes and practice areas to championship standard year-round. 
- Managing and improving Poa greens through innovative and sustainable turf management. 
- Developing and maintaining fescue roughs and naturalised areas, balancing ecology with playability. 
- Leading, motivating, and developing the greenkeeping team to ensure operational excellence and professional growth. 
- Managing budgets, resources, machinery, and irrigation systems effectively and responsibly. 
- Upholding best practices in health, safety, and environmental compliance. 
- Providing clear communication and reporting to the General Manager, Greens Director, and membership on course condition and strategic planning. 
- Contributing as a key member of the Senior Leadership Team, supporting the Club’s vision for continuous improvement. 
- Overseeing the wider estate presentation, including landscaping, driveways, signage, and ponds, to uphold the Club’s prestigious image. 

Candidate Profile 

The ideal candidate will demonstrate: 

- A minimum of 10 years’ experience in golf course maintenance, including management or supervisory roles. 
- Proven ability to lead, motivate, and develop a high-performing team. 
- Strong turf management expertise, particularly in Poa greens and parkland course environments. 
- Experience managing budgets, planning maintenance programmes, and implementing sustainable practices. 
- Knowledge of irrigation, drainage, pest management, and modern turf care technologies. 
- Excellent communication and organisational skills, with confidence in liaising with management, contractors, and members. 
- A genuine passion for golf and course presentation, with an eye for detail and innovation. 
- Relevant qualifications (HNC, HND, or Degree in Turf/Sports Turf Management preferred). 
- PA1, PA2, and PA6 certificates. 
- Full UK driving licence. 

Salary & Benefits 

A competitive salary and benefits package will be offered, commensurate with experience and aligned with the significance of this leadership role. 

How to Apply 

Please submit your cover letter (written in black ink) and CV (in that order) to Iain Evans, General Manager, Thorndon Park Golf Club. gm@thorndonpark.com  

Your cover letter should outline: 

- Why you are applying for this role at this stage of your career. 
- How your skills and experience align with Thorndon Park’s standards and ambitions. 
- Why Brentwood and the Essex area represent an excellent fit for you and your career.

Application Deadline: Friday, 14th November 2025

Interviews Begin: Monday, 24th November 2025 

For more information about Thorndon Park, visit www.thorndonpark.com