ABOUT THIS OPPORTUNITY

A unique and exciting opportunity has emerged to lead one of the most scenic golf destinations in the North-West of Ireland as Director of Golf Operations at Carrick-On-Shannon Golf Course. Situated in the picturesque setting of Usna, Woodbrook, this hidden gem runs parallel to the majestic River Shannon, offering breathtaking views and a challenging yet rewarding golfing experience.
This is far more than just a management position – it’s a chance to make your mark on Ireland’s golf landscape by steering a transformation journey that will establish Carrick-On-Shannon as a premier golfing destination. As we embark on a new organisational structure, we’re seeking a visionary leader who can not only manage day-to-day operations but also develop and implement strategic initiatives that will elevate our course’s reputation, experience, and commercial success.

Located less than two hours from Dublin Airport and just 50 minutes from Ireland West Airport, our accessible location on the main N4 route positions us perfectly for growth in both domestic and international golf tourism markets. The course itself, with its stunning par-three 8th hole overlooking the River Shannon and strategic challenges throughout its 18 holes, offers tremendous potential for marketing and destination appeal.

 

ROLE OVERVIEW
Reporting directly to the Board of Directors, you will have comprehensive responsibility for all aspects of golf operations while playing a pivotal role in the strategic development of the club. You’ll manage the entire golf experience – from the pro shop to course utilisation, tournament planning, membership
growth, financial performance, and marketing initiatives – ensuring exceptional service at every touchpoint.
This position offers genuine autonomy and the freedom to shape the future of a beautiful golf facility nestled in Ireland’s stunning northwest region. As the transformation champion, you will be entrusted with significant decision-making authority to implement your vision for operational excellence and business growth.
The role is ideally suited for an ambitious PGA professional looking to transcend traditional management boundaries and grow into a more entrepreneurial position. As you demonstrate success in elevating the course’s profile and performance, there will be opportunities to evolve the role to include greater ownership of business outcomes through a performance-related reward structure. We are open to exploring innovative business models that align your professional growth with the course’s success, creating a partnership approach where your contributions to business growth are directly recognised and rewarded.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Strategic Leadership & Business Development
• Lead the transformation of Carrick-On-Shannon Golf Course into a recognised and respected golf destination within the Irish and international golf community
• Develop and execute comprehensive business plans to drive sustainable growth in green fees, memberships, and commercial revenue
• Create and implement innovative marketing strategies to increase course utilisation and expand the club’s reach in both domestic and international markets
• Establish key performance indicators and reporting structures to monitor progress and adapt strategies as needed
• Collaborate with the Board to define and refine the long-term vision for the course
• Identify and pursue opportunities for strategic partnerships, sponsorships, and other revenue streams
• Research and evaluate potential investments in facility improvements to enhance the golf experience and attract premium clientele Golf Operations Management
• Oversee all aspects of daily golf operations including starter services, practice facilities, and player experience
• Ensure exceptional customer service standards throughout all touchpoints of the golf operation
• Develop and coordinate a dynamic calendar of tournaments, leagues, and special events to drive engagement and revenue
• Create engaging player development programmes for all skill levels to attract and retain golfers
• Implement efficient tee-time management systems to maximise course utilisation and revenue generation
• Oversee the golf retail operation, including merchandising, inventory management, and sales strategies
• Maintain strong relationships with golf tour operators and corporate clients to drive group bookings
• Establish and enforce course policies and procedures that balance accessibility with appropriate pace of play

Course Development & Management

• Experienced in course planning and execution of those plans

• Green excellence

• Experienced in course planning and execution of those plans
• Green excellence
• Machinery plans, purchase & maintenance
• Maximisation of driving range facilities

Financial & Resource Management
• Prepare, manage, and take full accountability for the annual golf operations budget with clear revenue targets and expense controls
• Develop pricing strategies and membership structures to optimise revenue while ensuring value
• Analyse financial performance data to identify trends, opportunities, and areas for improvement
• Manage departmental expenses to ensure operational efficiency and profitability
• Plan and justify capital expenditure proposals for facility improvements and equipment upgrades
• Develop staffing plans and manage the golf operations team, ensuring appropriate coverage while controlling labour costs
• Implement effective cash handling procedures and financial controls to safeguard assets
• Produce regular financial reports for the Board with analysis and recommendations for improvement

Team Leadership
• Recruit, train, and develop a high-performing team of golf operations staff
• Create a positive work culture that emphasises exceptional customer service and continuous improvement
• Establish clear performance expectations and provide regular feedback and coaching
• Identify and nurture talent within the organisation to support succession planning
• Foster a collaborative environment with other departments including course maintenance and food & beverage
• Lead by example in professional standards, work ethic, and commitment to excellence
• Conduct regular staff meetings to ensure effective communication and alignment with business objectives
• Marketing & Community Relations
• Serve as the public face of Carrick-On-Shannon Golf Course at industry events and in the local community
• Develop and execute marketing initiatives to promote the course and its amenities across traditional and digital channels
• Build relationships with local businesses, hotels, and tourism organisations to create mutually beneficial partnerships
• Engage with the golfing community through social media and other digital platforms
• Represent the club professionally with members, guests, and the broader community
• Develop compelling content that highlights the course’s unique features and exceptional scenery
• Work closely with Ireland’s tourism bodies to position the course within relevant golf tourism initiatives

REQUIREMENTS
Essential Qualifications & Experience
• PGA professional qualification or equivalent golf management certification
• Minimum of 5 years’ progressive experience in golf operations management
• Demonstrated track record of driving business growth and improving financial performance
• Strong financial acumen with experience in budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis
• Proven leadership skills with the ability to build, develop, and motivate teams
• Exceptional customer service orientation with a focus on creating premium experiences
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills
• Proficiency with golf management software and standard business applications
• Valid driving licence and flexibility to work weekends and evenings as required by business needs

Desirable Attributes
• Experience in transforming or elevating a golf facility’s profile and performance
• Knowledge of the Irish golf market and tourism landscape
• Background in sports management or related business field
• Marketing expertise, particularly in digital marketing and social media strategies
• Event management experience, especially golf tournaments and corporate outings
• Experience in facilities management and capital improvement projects
• Network of industry contacts that can benefit the development of the course
• Understanding of agronomy principles and course maintenance requirements
• Experience working with membership committees and governance structures Personal Qualities
• Entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to identify and capitalise on opportunities
• Strategic thinker who can balance long-term vision with practical execution
• Results-oriented with a drive for excellence and continuous improvement
• Adaptable and resilient, able to manage change effectively
• Passionate about golf and dedicated to providing exceptional golf experiences
• Commercially astute with strong business development instincts
• Collaborative leader who builds effective relationships at all levels
• Hands-on manager willing to lead from the front during busy periods
• High level of integrity and professional ethics

What We Offer
• A competitive salary package commensurate with experience
• Performance-based incentives tied to business growth objectives
• The autonomy to shape the direction of a golf facility with enormous potential
• The opportunity to make your mark on Ireland’s golfing landscape
• A stunning work environment in one of Ireland’s most beautiful regions
• Support for continued professional development and industry networking
• Potential for career advancement as the business grows
• Relocation assistance for the right candidate if required

This exceptional opportunity offers the right candidate the chance to lead the transformation of a hidden gem into one of Ireland’s must-play golf destinations. If you’re a passionate golf professional with the vision, drive, and commercial acumen to take Carrick-On-Shannon Golf Course to new heights, we want to hear from you.
The successful candidate will be joining at a pivotal time in our development, with significant investment planned to elevate all aspects of the facility. This is a genuine opportunity to build your legacy in Irish golf by shaping a destination that capitalises on its natural beauty, strategic layout, and the growing appeal of golf tourism in Ireland’s stunning northwest region.
For ambitious PGA professionals seeking to move beyond traditional roles, this position offers a clear pathway to greater business involvement and financial reward. As the course flourishes under your leadership, we envision evolving the relationship to reflect your instrumental contribution to our success. We’re committed to implementing a reward structure that recognises excellence and creates mutual long term benefit—allowing you to grow professionally and financially with the business you help build. This represents a rare chance to combine your golf expertise with commercial leadership in a model where your success and the course’s success are intrinsically linked