29 Oct
|
The Hospitality Tribune
|
Pickering
29 Oct
The Hospitality Tribune
Pickering
CLUB OVERVIEW
Whitevale Golf Club (“the Club”), located in Pickering, Ontario, is a member-owned private equity club and a proud history dating to 1958. One of the few equity membership clubs in Ontario, Whitevale is a highly golf-centric club distinguished by its competitive membership, active playing culture, and high volume of annual rounds.
At the heart of the Club is its 18-hole golf course, extensively renovated by renowned Canadian golf course architect Thomas McBroom. The Club also features a comprehensive McBroom-designed practice facility that includes a 350-yard driving range, dedicated short-game and bunker areas, and multiple putting greens. Together, these facilities support regular member play, competitive events, player development, and an engaging golf experience for golfers of varying skill levels.
This is a visible leadership role within a tight-knit and highly engaged golf member community. The opportunity is attractive for a leader who values a hands-on, member-facing environment, while the challenge lies in consistently delivering excellence within a seasonal operating model and supporting the Club’s continued excellence, thoughtful renewal, and long-term stewardship.
ABOUT THE CLUB
- Members: 531 Equity members & 200+ Associate members
- Gross Revenue: Approximately $ 5.5 million
- Annual Dues Revenue: Approximately $ 3.2 million
- Employee Count: Approximately 100 employees during peak season
AMENITIES & SERVICES
- 18-Hole Golf Course (Renovated 2006 – Thomas McBroom)
- 36,000 annual rounds of golf
- Full Golf Practice Facilities
- Competitive member golf tournament and events
- Intermediate program
- Junior / Kids Programming
- Robust Social Calendar and Dining Programs
POSITION SUMMARY
The General Manager/Chief Operating Officer (“GM/COO”) is responsible for the overall leadership, management, and execution of Whitevale Golf Club’s strategic and operational priorities. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the GM/COO oversees all aspects of Club operations and ensures delivery of a consistent, high-quality member experience.
This role requires a highly visible, engaged, and approachable leader who builds trust through regular interaction with members, staff, and the Board. Financial management and oversight to implement strategic initiatives set by the board are essential. The Club places particular emphasis on hospitality and service excellence, interpersonal leadership, emotional intelligence, and the ability to lead through change. The GM/COO must communicate transparently, manage competing expectations, and navigate complex situations with consistency, empathy, and professionalism.
The GM/COO leads the senior team, establishes clear performance expectations, and strengthens coordination and accountability across all areas of the Club. In partnership with the Board, the GM/COO will clarify and advance Whitevale’s strategic direction, align service expectations with available resources, oversee thoughtful facility and capital renewal,
and support operational excellence and long-term financial sustainability.
KEY LEADERSHIP PRIORITIES
To be successful in this role, the GM / COO must demonstrate the following competencies, identified through extensive job analysis. These core capabilities are essential for success and will serve as key benchmarks for performance evaluation, ensuring clear expectations and ongoing support.
Leadership & Visibility
- Serve as a highly visible and engaged leader, maintaining a consistent presence throughout the Club, particularly during peak operating periods.
- Build robust, trust-based relationships through responsiveness, approachability, and regular interaction.
- Lead with a high degree of emotional intelligence, demonstrating self-awareness, good judgment, and the ability to navigate interpersonal situations effectively.
- Establish clear expectations and hold the leadership team accountable for performance, culture, and service delivery.
- Develop, align, and motivate a high-performing team through effective delegation, coaching, and support.
Member Experience & Engagement
- Define and champion clear service standards across golf, dining, facilities, and every major member touchpoint, ensuring that employees are trained, empowered, and held accountable for delivering a consistent high-quality experience.
- Foster a welcoming, inclusive, and well-connected Club environment that strengthens member engagement and satisfaction.
- Actively seek member feedback and ensure it informs decision-making and continuous improvement efforts.
- Address member concerns in a timely, thoughtful, and constructive manner.
- Ensure that programs, amenities, and service d
📌 Whitevale Golf Club, General Manager/COO (Pickering)
🏢 The Hospitality Tribune
📍 Pickering