Visit us – www.canterburygolfclub.co.uk
About our Club:
Canterbury Golf Club is a Harry Colt designed course set on the outskirts of the World Heritage cathedral City of Canterbury and in 2027 will celebrate its centenary. Our parkland course is laid out over an area of land that in medieval times was a hunting park for Henry V111 and a military training ground in World War 1 and is in a renowned area of outstanding natural beauty with reputational woodland and a wildlife sanctuary. Recently featuring in the Golf World top 200 Courses in England and in the top 10 courses in Kent, we provide a wonderful experience for our members and visitors with a high quality course that will challenge the experienced golfer and offer enjoyment for the novice.
The Club has a recently upgraded traditional style bar, lounge, meeting room and a function room for internal and external functions. In addition to retail and a purpose built golf club fitting studio the Club boasts a 23 Bay Driving Range with Top Tracer technology and is a popular local sporting, leisure amenity and training facility for members.
General Manager Scope for Position:
We require a replacement General Manager and Company Secretary to take our Members’ Club and business forward to its’ centenary year and beyond building on the foundations set by our departing General Manager who has been with us 12 years.
The General Manager, under the direction and support of the Board of Directors will be responsible for all aspects of the Club’s day-to-day operational activities. The position requires a highly motivated professional capable of working efficiently and to the highest standards. The appointed person will actively participate in the Club’s future strategic development and play a key role in optimising the Club’s full potential maintaining its’ reputation as a premier Harry Colt Course. They will liaise regularly and appropriately with the Chair and Board of Directors together with other sub-committees, Members, Subcontractors and all other relevant Stakeholders that may be required. They will be accountable for delivery on profit and performance targets agreed and set by the Board of Directors. Provide leadership of the Strategic Plan currently set and in place, driving progress in facility upgrades, digital developments and Member engagement.
Primary Responsibilities:
Leadership & Operations Management
- Provide leadership and clear direction across all departments, including golf course, golf services, F&B, and administration.
- Maintain high-quality experience for members and guests, ensuring the Club operates efficiently and profitably.
- Recruit, lead, and develop a motivated team, fostering a positive culture that reflects the Club’s ethos.
- Oversee the presentation and maintenance of the golf course, clubhouse, leisure facilities, and surroundings.
- Ensure compliance with all UK health & safety, employment, governance legislation and GDPR.
- Maintain the Club’s commitment to equality, diversity and inclusivity both with regard to the membership and employees alike to foster the sense of community.
Member Experience & Engagement
- Be a visible and approachable presence throughout the Club, building strong relationships with members.
- Ensure that every interaction reflects warmth, professionalism, and genuine hospitality.
- Support the delivery of an engaging events calendar, including golf competitions, activities, and social occasions.
- Gather and act on member feedback to continually enhance satisfaction and retention.
Financial & Commercial Management
- Prepare and manage annual operating and capital budgets in line with the strategic goals set by the Board.
- Monitor financial performance, implement cost controls, and identify opportunities to maximise revenue.
- Work with the Board to develop commercial strategies that drive sustainable growth.
- Ensure transparent financial reporting and accountability reporting in a timely manner to the Board.
Strategic Leadership & Development
- Collaborate with the Board on the ongoing development and execution of the Club’s strategic plan.
- Identify opportunities for innovation and continuous improvement across all facets of the operation.
- Lead key projects such as facility upgrades, new services, or membership initiatives.
- Uphold the Club’s brand standards and ensure alignment with its long-term vision.
Marketing, Membership & Community
- Oversee marketing, communications, and digital engagement to promote the Club.
- Drive membership growth and retention through effective sales, on boarding, and engagement initiatives.
- Strengthen the Club’s reputation within the local and regional community through partnerships, events, and outreach.
- Ensure the Club remains relevant and appealing to diverse audiences, including families, professionals, and younger members.
Qualifications & Experience:
- At least 5 years management experience as a General Manager or senior leader in a sizeable organisation to include operations and budgetary responsibility. Within leisure, sporting or hospitality environment would be desirable but not essential.
- A knowledge and appreciation of the game of golf and Club environment would be a strong advantage with an understanding of golf operations, membership management, and service delivery.
- Proven capability in terms of managing budgets, oversight of preparation of accurate financial information with an understanding of management accounts and cash flow control.
- Demonstrated people management and leadership skills incorporating a sensible and motivational approach to leading a dedicated workforce.
- Excellent communication, organisational, interpersonal skills and experience of working closely with a non- executive Chair and Board of Directors
- Familiarity with UK employment law, health & safety, and hospitality regulations.
- Relevant qualifications not essential.
Employment Package and Benefits:
Salary – From £60000 per annum, negotiable depending on experience, plus up to 10% performance bonus based on agreed annual revenue and profit targets.
Employer pension contribution 4.5%.
Holidays 25 days plus bank holidays
Contractual 40 hours per week with scheduled weekends plus additional hours as required should the need arise (e.g. Festival of Golf, Centenary Events).
Full use of Club facilities in accordance with club policies.
Subsidised food during hours of work.
Funded professional subscriptions.
Paid absence to attend necessary courses and professional development opportunities as agreed with Board of Directors.
Reimbursement of relevant expenses in the course of duties including mileage for use of own vehicle but not home to work. Note – It is envisaged that the candidate would live in SE Kent or within an hour of the Club premises by vehicle.
Application Process.
Applications will close on Friday 28th November 2025
Applications with up to date CV and a letter of introduction setting out what has prompted your interest in the post and suitability to –
[email protected] or [email protected]
Chairman – Canterbury Golf Club, Scotland Hills, Littlebourne Road, Canterbury , Kent,CT1 1TW
By Mark Shanley
