Deputy Head Greenkeeper
Royal North Devon Golf Club | Westward Ho!, North Devon
An opportunity to help shape the future of England's oldest golf course.
Founded in 1864, Royal North Devon Golf Club holds a unique position in the history of golf. Recognised as the oldest golf course in England, our historic championship links offers a traditional golfing experience shaped by its remarkable coastal environment.
We are seeking an ambitious, knowledgeable and highly motivated Deputy Head Greenkeeper to join our greenkeeping team and play a significant role in the continued development, presentation and management of this historic links.
Working closely with the Course Manager, the successful candidate will combine strong practical greenkeeping skills with effective leadership, sound technical knowledge and a genuine passion for delivering outstanding playing surfaces.
This is an opportunity for an individual who wishes to take ownership of daily operations, contribute to agronomic decision-making and become actively involved in the long-term development of one of the country's most distinctive golf courses.
The Role
The Deputy Head Greenkeeper will work directly alongside the Course Manager, taking an active role in both the practical and operational management of the golf course.
Key responsibilities will include:
-
Course Presentation & Operations: Plan, coordinate and supervise daily maintenance operations, ensuring consistently high standards of course presentation, playing quality and attention to detail
-
Team Leadership: Lead by example through a hands-on approach, supervising, motivating and developing the greenkeeping team while maintaining a positive and professional working environment
-
Agronomy & Turf Management: Work closely with the Course Manager in developing, planning and implementing agronomic programmes, including nutrition, irrigation, aeration, overseeding, disease management and sustainable turfgrass development
-
Course Construction & Development: Take an active role in the planning, supervision and practical delivery of construction, renovation and course improvement projects
-
Health & Safety: Promote and maintain a strong culture of workplace safety, ensuring compliance with relevant legislation, risk assessments, safe working procedures and operational standards
-
Machinery & Equipment: Oversee the safe operation, routine maintenance and care of the machinery fleet, ensuring equipment is maintained and used to the highest professional standards
-
Planning & Organisation: Assist with forward planning, staff deployment, seasonal maintenance programmes and the efficient use of resources
-
Management Responsibility: Deputise for the Course Manager when required, demonstrating the confidence, judgement and leadership necessary to maintain effective course operations
The Candidate
We are looking for an individual who combines practical ability with professional ambition and a willingness to contribute ideas.
The successful candidate will ideally demonstrate:
-
Proven experience in a senior greenkeeping or supervisory position, or the ability and ambition to progress into such a role
-
A recognised qualification in Sports Turf Management or Greenkeeping, ideally NVQ Level 3 or equivalent
-
Strong knowledge of turfgrass agronomy, golf course maintenance and modern greenkeeping practices
-
The ability to lead, organise and motivate a team while remaining fully involved in practical operations
-
Experience or a strong interest in golf course construction, renovation and improvement projects
-
A thorough understanding of machinery operation, maintenance procedures and workplace health and safety
-
Excellent communication, organisational and problem-solving skills
-
A proactive attitude, high personal standards and a genuine commitment to professional development
Experience in links greenkeeping, irrigation management and environmentally sensitive course maintenance would be advantageous, although applicants from other golfing environments are encouraged to apply.
Relevant pesticide application certificates and additional industry qualifications would also be beneficial.
A Unique Working Environment
Royal North Devon presents challenges and opportunities unlike those found at many modern golf facilities.
Our course is situated within the environmentally sensitive Northam Burrows landscape, where traditional links management must be balanced with conservation, coastal processes and the changing demands of the game
The successful candidate will have the opportunity to contribute to ongoing work involving sustainable turfgrass management, irrigation development, course construction, environmental stewardship and the long-term protection and evolution of the links
We are looking for someone who not only takes pride in maintaining a golf course but also wants to understand, influence and improve the way it is managed for future generations
What We Offer
-
A key leadership position at one of the most historic golf clubs in the world
-
The opportunity to work directly alongside the Course Manager and contribute to meaningful management decisions
-
Involvement in a varied programme of agronomy, construction and course development
-
Support for continued education, professional qualifications and career progression
-
The opportunity to develop the experience and leadership skills required for future Course Manager positions
-
A competitive remuneration package appropriate to the responsibilities of the role
Salary: [To be confirmed]
Start Date: By mutual agreement
Applications Close: Tuesday 24th November
How to Apply:
Applicants are invited to submit a CV and covering letter outlining their experience, qualifications and suitability for the position.
For the attention of:
Steven Harvey
Course Manager
Royal North Devon Golf Club
Westward Ho!, North Devon
Course Manager
Royal North Devon Golf Club
Westward Ho!, North Devon
Email: [email protected].
Join us in maintaining the traditions of a historic links while helping shape its future.
