Golf Learning Center General Manager

Benefits and Perks:

• Paid sick days, vacation days and holidays.
• Longevity bonus program and wellness program.
• Pension and retirement programs and Social Security participating.
• Exceptional health plan.
• Paid Life Insurance.
• Disability Insurance.
• Full-time employees and dependents enjoy discounted recreation classes and free admission to select Park District facilities.

Duties: Under the supervision of the Director of Golf Operations, the duties of the Golf Learning Center General Manager will include but will not be limited to the following:

• Deliver Exceptional Guest Experiences:
  • Ensure every guest enjoys a world-class experience through high-quality gameplay, traditional golf practice, and event services.
  • Monitor guest feedback via surveys, online reviews, and direct interactions to identify and address areas for improvement.
  • Train staff to handle guest inquiries and resolve issues promptly, maintaining a welcoming and inclusive environment.
  • Uphold facility cleanliness, safety, and visual appeal to align with Peoria Park District standards.
• Oversee Daily Operations:
  • Manage all aspects of facility operations, including opening/closing procedures, staffing schedules, upkeep, and maintenance, ensuring appropriate staffing levels and filling in when needed to meet that standard.
  • Requisition supplies and equipment required for operations of the traditional and Golf Learning Center.
  • Ensure accurate and timely daily, weekly, monthly financial reporting. Works collaboratively with Park District business staff as required.
  • Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations, including health, safety, and alcohol licensing.
  • Implement and enforce standard operating procedures (SOPs) for consistent and efficient operations.
  • Collaborate with Park District staff and vendors to recommend and implement new programs, events, technology upgrades, or menu enhancements.
  • Oversee reconciliation of daily and monthly revenue and expense reporting as outlined in the License Agreement with Gopher LLC.
• Drive Financial Performance:
  • Develop and manage the facility’s budget, including revenue, labor, and expense targets.
  • Track key performance indicators (KPIs) such as revenue per bay, guest spend per visit, and labor cost efficiency.
  • Boost revenue through promotions, upselling, and optimizing event bookings.
  • Make recommendations for innovative events and programming.
  • Control costs by managing inventory, reducing waste, and negotiating vendor contracts when applicable.
  • Prepare and present annual budgets, financial reports, and recommendations to senior leadership, committees, and the Park District Board, providing actionable insights.
• Lead and Develop a High-Performing Team:
  • In collaboration with Park District Human Resources staff, recruit, hire, and onboard new employees, ensuring alignment with Peoria Park District culture and values.
  • Direct and supervises assigned Golf Learning Center staff, including ongoing training, coaching, progressive discipline and performance evaluations to promote growth and accountability.
  • Keep time records and makes necessary reports for payroll.
  • Foster a positive, inclusive, and energetic workplace that motivates staff to deliver exceptional service.
  • Optimize staffing schedules to balance labor costs with service quality during peak and off-peak times.
• Manage Events and Group Bookings:
  • Oversee the planning and execution of private events, corporate functions, and tournaments, ensuring seamless coordination.
  • Coordinate with local groups, schools, and organizations, the scheduling and use of traditional golf amenities and the golf bays at the Golf Learning Center.
  • Work with Food & Beverage operation to maximize bookings and deliver customized guest experiences.
  • Ensure event spaces are well-maintained, properly equipped, and adequately staffed to meet client needs.
• Maintain and Leverage Technology:
  • Manage POS systems, including golf bay technology, ball-tracking software, reservation software and point-of-sale (POS) systems.
  • Collaborate with IT to troubleshoot technical issues and minimize downtime.
  • Stay informed about industry trends to recommend technology enhancements that improve guest satisfaction and operations.
• Support Marketing and Community Engagement:
  • Partner with the marketing team and Food & Beverage management to execute local promotions, campaigns, and partnerships to drive traffic and brand awareness.
  • Build relationships with local businesses, organizations, and influencers to establish the facility as a community hub.
• Ensure Safety and Risk Management:
  • Maintain a safe environment for guests and staff by enforcing safety protocols and conducting and documenting regular inspections.
  • Train staff on emergency action procedures, ensure staff have participated in job specific and District required safety trainings, and alcohol service compliance.
  • Address and document incidents promptly, coordinating with other departments as needed.
• Follow all safety procedures that pertain to the duties performed. Support all aspects of the District’s safety program.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Essential Functions:

• Ability to lift and move up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to stand and walk for long periods of time.
• Ability to work in a face-paced, high-energy setting with exposure to loud music, flashing lights, and large crowds.

Education: Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent in relevant degree to include Business Administration, or Hospitality Management.  Although a degree is preferred, extensive experience in a like position with similar duties and responsibilities may be substituted for all or part of the educational requirement.

LPGA/PGA Member preferred.

Experience: Minimum of five (5) years of management experience in a high-volume hospitality, entertainment venue, or golf management.  A minimum of three (3) years in a leadership role overseeing multiple departments and large team.  Experience managing budgets, financial reporting, and P&L statements.  Prior experience with event management and/or sports-entertainment venues is a plus.

Knowledge and Ability:

• A thorough knowledge of the game of golf, golf etiquette, the rules of golf (USGA), golf equipment and methods and procedures to enhance play.
• Proven ability to inspire, motivate, and develop a diverse team in a fast-paced environment.
• Passion for delivering exceptional customer experiences and resolving issues with empathy.
• Strong understanding of budgeting, forecasting, and cost control.
• Ability to manage complex operations & technology.
• Quick thinking and resourcefulness to address operational challenges and guest concerns.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills for interacting with staff, guests, and leadership.
• Comfortable with POS systems, facility management software, and entertainment technology.
• Ability to thrive in a dynamic, high-energy environment with shifting priorities.
• Ability to be professional, respectful, accountable, innovative, to follow safety procedures, and be equitable to both internal and external customers.
• Requires a valid Illinois State Driver’s License.
• Personal: Personal integrity, initiative, resourcefulness and ability to deal effectively with others are prime requisites

The Peoria Park District hires without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, citizenship status, ancestry, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, pregnancy, military status or unfavorable discharge from military service, protected veteran status, or on the basis of any characteristic protected by law.  

All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply.  

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.