At Forest Highlands, we believe exceptional experiences begin with exceptional leadership. We are seeking a service-oriented, hospitality-driven Assistant General Manager who embraces a member-first philosophy, is passionate about elevating excellence in every aspect of club operations, and thrives in a collaborative One Team environment. This individual will inspire and support our team, foster meaningful member relationships, and help deliver the outstanding service and culture that define the Forest Highlands experience.
Job Overview
The Assistant General Manager (AGM) works closely with the General Manager / COO to oversee the day-to-day operations of Forest Highlands Golf Club and ensure exceptional experiences for members, guests, and employees. In the absence of the General Manager / COO, the AGM assumes full responsibility for the management, administration, and operational leadership of the club. This role requires strong leadership, strategic planning, financial management, and a deep commitment to service excellence.
Key Responsibilities
Operational Leadership & Club Oversight
- Oversee daily operations of all club departments to ensure smooth, efficient, and high-quality service.
- Serve as the primary administrative link between departments to promote collaboration and communication.
- Approve budgets, staffing plans, and operating procedures for assigned departments.
- Monitor department performance and provide guidance to department heads to ensure operational objectives are met.
- Participate in ongoing facility inspections to ensure cleanliness, safety, and maintenance standards are consistently upheld.
- Assist with planning, supervising, and implementing facility improvements, remodeling, and repair projects.
Financial Management
- Monitor operational budgets and direct corrective action when necessary to achieve financial goals.
- Evaluate and monitor internal cost-control procedures to optimize efficiency.
- Research new products, services, and vendors; prepare cost-benefit analyses for review by the General Manager / COO.
- Assist in developing and implementing strategic business plans, annual operating budgets, forecasts, and performance reports.
Member Experience & Service Excellence
- Maintain direct contact with members to ensure maximum satisfaction and a premium club experience.
- Respond promptly to member and guest concerns, resolving complaints and enhancing relationships.
- Oversee service quality, facility cleanliness, and presentation standards across the club.
- Serve as a club representative within the community, enhancing the club’s image and reputation.
Culture & People, Staffing & Training
- Partner with the Culture & People Department to determine long-term staffing needs, particularly within clubhouse operations.
- Recruit, manage, and develop Department Directors within your purview.
- Assist Department Heads with employee training, performance evaluations, and professional development initiatives.
- Ensure employee and member dress code policies are enforced consistently.
- Counsel managers and staff on employee relations, grievance resolution, and disciplinary matters.
- Assist and be part of departmental meetings and trainings to communicate expectations and performance standards.
Safety, Compliance & Risk Management
- Monitor safety conditions and ensure employee compliance with safety protocols and emergency procedures.
- Oversee accident reporting, investigating incidents, and implementing preventative measures.
- Ensure the club complies with all legal, regulatory, and policy requirements.
- Advise the General Manager / COO on updates to bylaws, policies, and operational procedures.
- Manage the club’s preventative maintenance program and energy management initiatives.
Strategic Planning & Leadership
- Assist the General Manager / COO in developing and executing long-range strategic plans.
- Serve as an ad hoc member of club committees
o Assist in preparation and running committee with the Departments you directly work with.
- Represent the club during management and staff meetings, serving as an ambassador of the club’s mission, vision, and values.
- Complete additional assignments and special projects at the direction of the General Manager / COO and the Board of Directors.
Qualifications
Education & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management, Business Administration, or related field preferred.
- Minimum 5+ years of progressive management experience in private club, resort, or hospitality operations.
- Strong knowledge of club governance, food & beverage operations, golf operations, and recreation programs.
Skills & Competencies
- Exceptional leadership and team-building abilities.
- Strong financial and business acumen, including budgeting and cost-control.
- Excellent communication, interpersonal, and conflict-resolution skills.
- Strategic thinker with the ability to implement plans effectively.
- Highly organized, detail-oriented, and adaptable in a dynamic environment.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite; familiarity with POS, accounting, and scheduling software preferred.
Physical Demands & Work Environment
- Ability to stand, walk, and move throughout the property for extended periods.
- Must be able to lift up to 30 lbs. occasionally.
- Work requires flexibility, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
- Exposure to indoor and outdoor environments during various weather conditions.
Qualifications & Requirements
Education and/or Experience
- Bachelor’s Degree from a four-year college or university
- Hospitality Management major preferred
- Member of Club Managers Association of America (CMAA) and other professional associations
- Attends conferences, workshops and meetings (e.g. CMAA’s World Conference and Club Business Expo and CMAA Chapter Meetings) to keep abreast of current information and developments in the field to enhance his or her value and quality of services to the members.
- Six or more years of related experience with three or more years as a manager.
- Substantial private club or hospitality industry experience with management and supervisory experience and progressive professional advancement
- Management of complex capital projects
- Experience working with volunteer committees.
Job Knowledge, Core Competencies and Expectations
- Ability to perform as the club’s General Manager / COO during his/her absence
- Knowledge of management requirements for housekeeping, engineering, maintenance and repair, utility operations, and recreation & racquet functions at the club
- Must demonstrate appropriate analytical skills, attention to detail, organizational and project management skills
- Ability to develop and maintain awareness of occupational hazards and safety precautions; skilled in following safety practices and recognizing hazards
- Knowledge of and ability to perform required role in emergency situations.
Licenses and Special Requirements
- Certified Club Manager (CCM) designation through CMAA or in current pursuit of this designation desirable
