The Organization

Aspen Valley is a private, 18-hole golf club nestled in the ponderosa pine forest of Flagstaff. Designed around the iconic Rio De Flag just east of downtown, the 6,889-yard layout showcases the rolling topography of the site along with unfettered views of nearby Mount Elden in the foreground and the San Francisco Peaks in the distance. Aspen Valley is a private club operated by its members, about half of whom live in Flagstaff year-round and half of whom come seasonally to enjoy the club. There are 400 memberships in total, all of which are currently issued.

Since its founding in 1993, the Aspen Valley membership has been focused on building a culture that celebrates the traditions of golf. No frills. No pomp. No circumstance. Just a well-designed, well-maintained golf course that's easy to walk, and enough food & beverage to complement the round. It's a simple formula but it works incredibly well.

The elevation in Flagstaff provides an ideal growing environment, so the course is lush and green from late spring through early fall. Bentgrass greens are a luxury rarely provided in the Valley, but they are fast and true all summer long at Aspen Valley.

A majority of the golf course is lined with tall ponderosa pines, framing tee shots and approaches in a way only provided by mountain golf. When the holes do traverse the meadows, the tests created by trees are replaced by natural wetlands. Importantly though, the design does an effective job of challenging the accomplished player while still accommodating the novice.

The bar & restaurant sit directly adjacent to the golf shop, practice green and first tee, meaning that even while you're enjoying a cold drink or a nice meal, you're never far away from the golf action. In fact, it's not uncommon to hear great opening drives rewarded with praise and other shots, well, they elicit a reaction from the diners as well. Much of the seating is outdoors under the towering ponderosas, but there is plenty of room inside if you want to watch the game. For most of the summer, the doors are wide open, and members are traversing from table-to-table connecting with friends.

Position Overview

The Golf Course Superintendent is entrusted with the development and management of the golf course. The candidate should take special pride in delivering exceptional playing conditions for members and guests by providing extraordinary turf conditions. The Superintendent will be responsible for managing the daily operations of the entire golf course.

The Golf Course Superintendent will supervise the maintenance team, including organizing, directing, and overseeing all facets of the department, including but not limited to staffing, training, safety protocol, chemical/fertilizer plans, working relationships across departments, interaction with golf members and financial controls for the department.

The responsibilities also include supervising the construction and maintenance of the golf course and supervising the servicing and repair of turfgrass maintenance equipment.

This position will report to the General Manager.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Plans, organizes and directs the maintenance program for greens, tees, fairways, rough,and bunkers.
• Supervises the planting and cultural practices involved in growing various turfgrasses, trees and ornamental plants.
• Actively manage, supervise and maintain the club's goose dog.
• Supervises the efficient operation of an equipment service and repair shop. Procures supplies and materials within budgetary limitations.
• Keeps records of annual maintenance activities and costs.
• Develops, maintains and holds staff accountable for golf course standard operating procedures.
• Prepares and presents the annual golf course maintenance budget.
• Participates in interviewing, hiring, and discharge of employees.
• Coordinates operations with the General Manager and the Golf Professional.
• Communicates and coordinates with all relevant membership and committees.
• Assumes responsibility for managing and maintaining club properties, which include:
  • The golf course
  • Maintenance equipment
  • Open spaces, wooded areas, unused acreage, and areas outside the perimeter fence
  • Irrigation system management
  • Other properties as specified in writing by the General Manager

Skills, Background & Personality

• A 2 or 4-year degree/certificate in agronomy horticulture/plant/soil sciences is required.
• Experience in all phases of golf course management and turf culture. High elevation turfgrass experience highly preferred.
• Participating in the knowledge of the game of golf, a golfer.
• Thorough knowledge of the construction, establishment and maintenance practices employed on golf course putting greens, tee, fairways, roughs and bunkers; planting and culture of turfgrasses used on golf courses; the planting, cultivation and pruning of ornamental plants, shrubs and trees; the characteristics and proper use of various fertilizers and soil conditions; pesticide control methods and materials; drainage methods; and watering practices and irrigation systems, including wells, pumps, and automatic controls.
• Knowledge of construction and maintenance of the maintenance facility, irrigation, restrooms, fences, bridges, golf cart paths, service roads, parking lots, ponds, and streams.
• Some bi-lingual skills.
• Licensed in pesticide usage.
• Warm, outgoing engaging personality who can interface with Club members and staff. High member visibility is a must.
• Financial acumen to encompass budgeting, labor, and cost controls.

Competitive Compensation

• Competitive compensation/salary and an annual performance bonus.
• Medical, life insurance, and paid vacation.
• Professional dues and expenses in accordance with the annual budget.
• Relocation assistance (if from outside the area).

To be Considered

Professionals who meet or exceed the established criteria are encouraged to contact:

Terry Anglin, CCM, CCE, ECM
Principal
terry@gsiexecutivesearch.com
901-550-9338

Mark J. Woodward, CGCS, MBA
Principal
markw@gsiexecutivesearch.com
480-381-8831