Course Manager

Founded in 1910, West Hove Golf Club is a friendly private members club situated in the midst of the South Downs National Park, an area of outstanding natural beauty approximately 5 miles from the centre of Brighton.

Well-known for superb views across the South Downs and English Channel, our 18-hole golf course is laid out over rolling, free draining chalk downland in one of the warmest and driest parts of the country.

We have an exciting opportunity for an enthusiastic and committed Course Manager to help lead and continue with our ambitions and plans. The ideal candidate will be responsible for the day to-day management of green staff, 18 holes of golf and the substantial practice facilities including a Trackman Driving Range.

In conjunction with a Golf Course Policy, 10 Year Golf Course Improvements Plan and Ecology & Habitat Management Plan, we are currently progressing several ambitious projects including a full bunker refurbishment programme, future installation of a new golf course irrigation system, creation and restoration of key scrub/vegetation areas to support an important reptile translocation project which will enhance the long-term landscape values.

We have recently completed the construction of a brand new Greenkeepers Welfare Building, designed to enhance the comfort, convenience and well-being of our dedicated greenkeeping team.

The successful applicant will require vision & ambition and have the character and skills to take responsibility for decision making and leadership. They will also need to demonstrate a professional and modern approach to green keeping whilst having the enthusiasm to enhance the biodiversity and ecology of the site to the mutual benefit of both the environment and the golf course.

Key Responsibilities:

The Course Manager will be responsible for the general management and maintenance of the golf course, practice areas and other external amenity areas. This role also requires effective leadership skills, an extensive knowledge of turf management and the ability to successfully manage a dedicated greenkeeping team while being part of an agile and focused Management Team.

Attributes, Qualifications and Experience:

The ideal candidate will be organised, professional and reliable with a positive flexible approach to work. Have excellent attention to detail, strong problem solving skills with an ambitious approach towards developing their own career within the golf industry and have a desire to improve and keep abreast of industry advances. 

• Proven record in golf course management 
• Experienced in producing excellent putting surfaces 
• Strong knowledge of greens maintenance practices 
• A minimum of 5 years in golf course experience/management 
• PA1, PA2, and PA6 spraying certificates 
• Qualified to NVQ level 3 or above 
• Good understanding of Health & Safety and Environmental Management 
• Enthusiastic approach to building and following an integrated agronomy and pest management plan 
• Flexible and co-operative 
• Passion for providing members and visitors with exceptional playing conditions

Team Management:

The successful candidate must be able to build and maintain professional relationships with staff, members, and suppliers. Excellent staff management and motivational skills to develop your team. Communication skills to keep members up to date on course progress and plans.

What you can expect: 

• Competitive salary based on experience 
• 28 days paid annual leave including Bank Holidays (increased based on length of service) 
• Contributory pension scheme 
• Full support to further develop your career with training and education 
• Discounted food

To apply: Please send your CV, with a covering letter highlighting your suitability for the role to: Gary Salt, General Manager, West Hove Golf Club, Badgers Way, Hangleton, Hove, East Sussex, BN3 8EX E-mail: [email protected]

Closing date for applications: 31st May 2024