A rare opportunity to lead one of Yorkshire’s most respected heathland clubs — where course quality, member experience, and a clear strategic direction set the agenda.

Founded in 1906, Pannal Golf Club is entering an exciting new chapter following the retirement of its long-serving General Manager. The Club is seeking an exceptional leader to build on a proud legacy — someone who will champion course quality as the Club’s primary asset, drive an outstanding member and guest experience, and work closely with the Board to deliver the Club’s Strategic Plan. This is a Board-level appointment.

About the Club

Pannal Golf Club combines a distinguished heathland course with a welcoming culture and a strong reputation across the Yorkshire and wider UK golfing community. The Club is actively delivering a multi-year Course Development Plan, supported by an advisory relationship with The R&A through its Sustainable Agronomy Service.

In 2026, in only its second year of association with 59club, the Club achieved Silver Flag status at the 59club UK & Ireland Service Excellence Awards — recognition of the high standards delivered by the team every day.

This is not a turnaround role. The Club is financially stable, strategically focused, and supported by an engaged Board and membership.

The Role

The General Manager will sit on the Board of Directors and work in close partnership with the Chairman and non-executive Directors to shape the Club’s strategic direction. The successful candidate will hold overall responsibility for the leadership, operational performance, and member experience of the Club.

Key Responsibilities

• Champion course quality as the Club’s primary asset, working closely with the Head Greenkeeper to deliver the Course Development Plan to the highest agronomic standards.
• Drive an exceptional member, guest, and visitor experience, building on the Club’s 59club Silver Flag accreditation and pursuing continued service excellence.
• Lead, develop, and motivate the senior management team across greens, golf operations, hospitality, finance, events, and administration.
• Partner with the Board on Strategic Plan delivery, capital investment priorities, and long-term financial sustainability.
• Manage budgets, operational efficiency, revenue generation, cost control, and investment decisions with strong commercial awareness.
• Drive membership engagement, retention, and recruitment in collaboration with the Membership Operating Sub-Committee.
• Ensure the highest standards of governance, compliance, health & safety, and operational policy across the Club.
• Build strong relationships with members, suppliers, governing bodies, and the wider golf community.
• Support the successful delivery of Club competitions, social events, and corporate functions.

The Ideal Candidate

The successful applicant will demonstrate:

• Senior leadership experience within a private members’ golf club or comparable hospitality or membership environment.
• A proven track record of getting the best from a greenkeeping team, recognising that course quality is the foundation of the Club’s success.
• Genuine commitment to customer experience, with experience of externally benchmarked service standards such as 59club, GEO, or equivalent.
• A visible, hands-on leadership style focused on coaching, accountability, and people development.
• Strong commercial and financial acumen, with confidence engaging at Board level.
• Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage warmly and effectively with members and stakeholders.
• The ability to balance the traditions of a 1906 club with progressive thinking and continuous improvement.
• CMDip, CCM, or equivalent qualifications are desirable but not essential.

What We Offer

• A seat on the Board of Directors with genuine influence and accountability.
• A financially stable, well-governed Club with a clear Strategic Plan and Course Development Plan already in place.
• A supportive and engaged Board and membership.
• Competitive salary package commensurate with experience, plus pension and additional benefits.
• A genuine long-term career opportunity within one of Yorkshire’s most respected golfing environments.

Application Process

Applicants should submit:

• A current CV
• A covering letter outlining their suitability, relevant experience, and motivation for the role

Applications will be treated in the strictest confidence.

Key Dates

• Closing Date: Friday 26 June 2026
• First-Stage Interviews: Week commencing 6 July 2026
• Final Interviews: Week commencing 13 July 2026

Apply / Further Information

Graeme Pryde – General Manager