Hamilton Golf & Country Club - Chief Operating Officer

Founded in 1894, Hamilton Golf & Country Club in Ancaster, Ontario stands as one of Canada’s oldest and most prestigious private clubs, steeped in more than a century of tradition. Renowned for its world-class golf and collegial atmosphere, HGCC continues to deliver a world-class experience for members and guests, blending its storied heritage with modern amenities and a vibrant club culture.

ABOUT THE CLUB
Member-Owned Private Club
Core Golf Member Count: 725
Gross Revenue: $12+ million

AMENITIES
Golf: 27 full holes plus a nine-hole par-27 course
Dedicated practice facilities
Member-owned Pro Shop
Dining and Events
Winter Amenities (incl. golf simulator, winter golf academy, walking trails, dining, and social events)

POSITION SUMMARY

The Chief Operating Officer of Hamilton Golf & Country Club is responsible for all day-to-day operations and the realization of the Club’s strategic objectives. Reporting directly to the Board of Directors, the COO leads a high-performing team to deliver an exceptional golf, social, and hospitality experience for members and guests. The COO is expected to be a highly visible and approachable leader who fosters open communication, builds strong relationships with members, staff, and the Board, and ensures operational excellence across all areas of the Club. The COO will also serve as an ambassador for HGCC within the broader golf industry and local community, reinforcing the Club’s reputation as one of Canada’s premier private clubs.

Direct reports include the Golf Course Superintendent, Head Golf Professional, F&B Manager,
Controller, and other administrative departments.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Leadership, Culture, and Emotional Intelligence

• Demonstrate emotional intelligence and self-awareness in decision-making and interactions.
• Address performance issues constructively through coaching and feedback.
• Serve as a visible, engaged leader who embodies HGCC’s values and sets high standards for operational, cultural, and financial performance.
• Build and inspire a collaborative leadership team, ensuring clear accountability, succession planning, and staff development.
• Create a positive, inclusive workplace culture that promotes integrity, respect, and a sense of belonging for members and staff.

Member Experience

• Champion a personalized, high-touch service culture that upholds Club traditions while enhancing social programming, dining, and golf operations.
• Ensure course conditions and amenities meet premier standards, protecting the Club’s investment and reputation.
• Foster strong member relationships through transparent communication and exceptional service.

Governance & Board Relations

• Collaborate with the Board to developing and implementing strategic priorities, providing clear updates and actionable recommendations.
• Build strong relationships with Board members and committee chairs, fostering a world-class decision-making process.
• Ensure effective club governance by understanding and applying bylaws, board structures, and regulatory compliance and ensuring enforcement.

Strategic Management & Innovative Leadership

• Develop and execute long-term strategic plans aligned with the Club’s vision and goals.
• Plan and deliver capital projects on time and within budget, ensuring facilities and programs align with member expectations and long-term objectives.
• Leverage data analytics and technology to drive strategic decisions and operational improvements.

Operations & Finance

• Oversee financial operations, including annual and capital budgets, monthly reporting, and compliance with audit and regulatory requirements.
• Ensure operational excellence across all departments, optimizing processes for efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness while maintaining a premier member experience.
• Develop and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for operations and finance to ensure accountability and continuous improvement.
• Manage vendor and contract relationships to ensure quality, value, and cost control.

Risk & Compliance

• Maintain robust health and safety policies, conduct annual risk assessments, and ensure compliance with employment standards and government regulations.
• Proactively manage operational risks and implement safeguards to protect members, staff, and Club assets.

Communication & Community Engagement

• Ensure timely, transparent communication with members, staff, and the Board regarding plans, progress, and key initiatives.
• Support the HGCC Foundation’s philanthropic initiatives and community partnerships, including the annual Borthwick Memorial Golf Tournament.
• Represent HGCC within the Ancaster and Hamilton community, strengthening relationships with stakeholders and reinforcing the Club’s reputation as a premier destination.

CANDIDATE PROFILE

The Chief Operating Officer is responsible for leading the team to achieve HGCC’s strategic objectives while advancing its culture of excellence, innovation, and community. To ensure alignment with this distinctive environment and be the right fit for Hamiton , the following qualifications and competencies:

Displays Emotional Intelligence: Being aware of and managing one's own emotions, while understanding the emotions of others, navigating complex situations and building trust.

Models Hospitality & Service Excellence: Creating a welcoming and exceptional experience for members and guests. Setting high standards for service and ensuring staff are well-trained and empowered to deliver.

Interpersonal Leadership: Building strong relationships with members, staff, and board members. Demonstrating empathy, active listening, and effective communication skills to foster collaboration and address concerns.

Club Governance: Understanding the legal and ethical frameworks that guide private club operations, including member rights and responsibilities, board structures, and regulatory compliance.

Leads Change & Supports Innovation: Championing new initiatives that improve the club's operations and member experience. Effectively communicating and managing change processes to gain buy-in from members and staff.

Strategic Management: Developing long-range plans that consider the club's vision, mission, and competitive landscape. Setting goals, allocating resources, and measuring progress.

Values & Promotes Diversity: Fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment that respects and celebrates the diversity of the membership.

Financial Acumen: Understanding financial statements, budgeting, cost control, and financial analysis specific to the private club industry. Can use data and analytics to make data driven decisions and recommendations.

EDUCATION & CREDENTIALS

• Bachelor’s degree in business, hospitality, or a related field required.
• Extensive private club management experience required.
• Certified Club Management (CCM) designation or other relevant industry designation preferred.

COMPENSATION
The Club will offer an attractive year-round compensation package, commensurate with experience, which will include a competitive base salary, bonus and full benefits. Hamilton strives to be the employer of choice. The base salary will reflect the competitive landscape and be commensurate with the experience, skills and qualifications of the successful candidate. The base salary will be in excess of the threshold disclosure amount set out in the Pay Transparency Act Ontario (2026). The search process will be compliant with the Act.