The Golfer
The director should know all the aspects of the game. Rules, etiquette, safety and current events are just the beginning--he or she should be able to tell you what kind of grass the greens and fairways are made of and when best to aerate them. The driving range and practice greens are under their jurisdiction. The director should be able give a great golf lesson and fit any individual with the right set of golf clubs.
The Manager
The manager side of the job has a long list of responsibilities. Directors are in charge of making sure the facility runs appropriately and cost-efficiently. This means they need to know about the food and beverage operations, budgeting, legal issues, clubhouse administration and they must make sure the people under them are doing their job. Those people include the head golf professional, head greenskeeper and food and beverage manager.
The Marketer
A successful golf course needs to have a following--if no one is there to play, there is no revenue. The director needs to market their golf course to get members and accumulate greens fees. Along with this comes marketing themselves in the community to bring more attention to the golf course. Examples of marketing oneself could occur by winning big tournaments or doing community service.
The Businessman
In most, but not all, job descriptions, the director will be the buyer for the clubhouse, meaning they will negotiate for merchandise and set prices for tees, balls and gloves. The clubhouse should be stocked with women's wear, men's wear and the most important equipment for the members and guests.
Expert Insight
One does not become a Director of Golf right away. It is usually reserved for experienced golf pros who have worked for many years in the industry as an assistant golf professional, a head golf professional or a general manager. Plan to devote around ten years to the industry before being eligible for this accomplished position.
About The Author
Jennifer Stow started golfing young and continued with great success through her "Tour" years. Now she loves to write about golf as a golfer and educator. She have written articles for big name retail giants in the golf industry like Dick's Sporting Goods and Golf Galaxy. She have also written many training manuals and clinics and seminars aimed at educating people. She has a very accurate view on golf but loves to dabble in food, fashion and decor.
