Links Superintendent
About The Island Golf Club
The Island Golf Club, founded in 1890, is a traditional Members' club with a proud history. Situated on a peninsula and overlooked by the coastal village of Malahide, the links is nestled within some of the most stunning sand dune formations on the East coast of Ireland. It is generally regarded as one of Ireland's finest links courses.
The Club enjoys a strong international reputation, attracting large numbers of overseas visitors and has played host to many national and international championships.
Recent changes to the links, undertaken under the direction of architects McKenzie & Ebert, reflect the Club's ambition to strive for continuous improvement. In 2026, the Club is hosting three R&A events: the Ireland Regional Qualifying for The Open Championship, and the Jacques Leglise and Junior Vagliano Trophies.
The Role
Following the departure of the current Links Superintendent, the Club is now inviting applications for this position. The Club seeks to recruit a highly motivated and ambitious individual who can demonstrate strong abilities in all aspects of golf course management.
The successful candidate will be capable of organising, motivating and managing the greenkeeping team and must bring a very high standard of presentation to the links. They will have a proven track record of success in a similar working environment and the vision to build on the significant investment already made in the course.
Responsibilities & Duties
The Links Superintendent will be responsible for, but not limited to, the following:
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Managing the day-to-day operations of the links, including the delegation and supervision of duties to ensure works are completed to the expected standard
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Preparing and implementing a planned programme of works to maintain the course at the required high standard, with this programme documented and communicated to all relevant stakeholders
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Agronomic management of the links including fine grass maintenance, bunker management, and the ongoing care of the distinctive dune landscape
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Developing the greenkeeping team to enhance performance, instiling a strong work ethic and promoting a positive workplace culture
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Carrying out a skills audit of existing staff and preparing and implementing personal training plans to address any gaps
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Carrying out annual performance appraisals and setting KPIs for team members
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Managing the budgeting and financial processes for the links department, including budget preparation, forecasting, expenditure monitoring, cost analysis and supplier relationships
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Overseeing the overall water management of the links and maintaining the computer-controlled irrigation system
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Planning, managing and maintaining the maintenance equipment inventory, ensuring all preventative maintenance is carried out and machinery is kept in the best possible condition
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Leading preparation for and delivery of major events, including R&A and national championship events hosted by the Club
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Participating in Greens Committee meetings and providing regular reports to the relevant committee and management structure
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Ensuring full compliance with health and safety legislation and the Club's Safety Statement
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Implementing and maintaining an environmentally sustainable maintenance programme, with a genuine interest in the ecology and natural environment of the links
Requirements
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A minimum of five years' experience as a Head Greenkeeper or Deputy Superintendent, with links experience strongly preferred
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Recognised industry qualifications in golf course management, greenkeeping and pesticide application techniques (PA1, PA2 and PA6 as a minimum)
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Experience working with sustainable fine grasses, particularly fescues and bent grasses, which are the preferred grasses in a links environment
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Proven ability to motivate, manage and supervise a greenkeeping team, with strong leadership and interpersonal skills
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Proven ability in record keeping, budgetary preparation, forecasting and monitoring
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Proficiency with modern communications and IT systems, including golf course management software (e.g. Turf Keeper) and irrigation management systems
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Knowledge and understanding of health and safety legislation and requirements
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The ability to prepare and implement personal training plans for existing staff
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The ability to implement an environmentally sustainable maintenance programme
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The ability to plan, manage and maintain the maintenance equipment inventory
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A commitment to ongoing professional development and keeping abreast of advances in greenkeeping methods, technology and industry best practice. Active membership of a professional greenkeeping association (ATPI, BIGGA, GCSAA or equivalent) is desirable
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Full driving licence
Remuneration
A highly competitive remuneration package, reflective of the status of this role, will be offered to the successful candidate. The Club also supports and encourages ongoing professional development, including attendance at industry events and conferences.
How to Apply
Applications, including a full CV and a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role, should be submitted in confidence to the Honorary Secretary at [email protected].
Closing date: 14th July 2026
The Island Golf Club is an equal opportunities employer.
