359: UK & US Golf Club Experiences w/ Leighton Walker
Jun 21, 2024
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Leighton Walker, GM of Cirencester Golf Club, compares UK & US golf clubs, discussing affordability versus premium service. He shares insights on career diversity in golf club management, highlighting the role of mentoring. Inclusivity and modern trends in golf club management are also explored.
UK golf clubs offer more affordable membership fees, making the sport accessible to a broader audience.
Career diversity in golf club management enhances adaptability and expertise, highlighting the value of mentoring and training.
Deep dives
Differences in Club Accessibility and Service Levels
Golf clubs in the UK are more affordable to join compared to the US, with average membership fees between £1,200 to £1,500 a year. In the UK, golf is accessible, making it affordable for both adults and youngsters to join. Additionally, there's a greater emphasis on service quality at golf clubs in the States, leading to higher service expectations from members.
The Podcast as an Educational Tool and Networking Platform
Podcasting has been a valuable learning experience for the host, uncovering areas like inclusivity in the industry and the importance of female representation. The podcast serves as a platform for sharing global insights and networking with professionals from different parts of the world. Each interview provides valuable insights that can be applied to club management practices, contributing to continuous improvement and innovation.
Professional Development and Mentoring Initiatives
The podcast host's role involves mentoring his assistant manager, an experienced PGA pro transitioning into management. This approach focuses on developing staff, fostering strategic and operational skills for sustainable club management. The podcast host's role extends beyond traditional management duties, incorporating project delivery and strategic planning, reflecting a shift towards a more mentorship-driven role.
Continuous Learning Through Podcast Interviews
The podcast has facilitated continuous learning through guest interviews, revealing innovative club management practices and strategies. While not every idea may be directly applicable, each interview brings valuable insights that contribute to enhancing club experiences and member engagement. Learning from diverse perspectives and practical examples shared during podcasts aids in refining management approaches and adding value to club operations.
How do golf clubs in the UK and the US stack up against each other? Join us for an enlightening conversation with Leighton Walker, General Manager of Cirencester Golf Club in England and co-host of Golf Talk UK, as he shares his expert insights on the contrasting landscapes of golf club experiences on both sides of the pond. We'll uncover why UK clubs often boast lower membership fees and joining costs, making golf more accessible to a broader audience, including youngsters. Meanwhile, in the US, the bar is set high with premium service quality expectations. This episode promises to enrich your understanding of the cultural and operational differences defining the private golf and country club scene.
The value of career diversity takes center stage as we discuss the unique growth paths within the golf club management industry. From small clubs in Australia to member-owned clubs in the UK, gaining experience across diverse roles can significantly enhance one's adaptability and expertise. Leighton shares his personal journey, transitioning from part-time management to growing a successful podcast brand, and highlights the critical importance of mentoring and training in shaping a fulfilling career. We also demystify the role of a Secretary Manager and its varying responsibilities across different countries, providing a comprehensive view of this pivotal position.
Inclusivity and modern trends in golf club management are also key topics in this episode. Leighton talks about innovative ideas to boost member engagement, such as offering free lessons by PGA professionals, and emphasizes the significance of incremental improvements in club services. Learn about the challenges of measuring these initiatives' impact and how they can lead to greater member satisfaction and retention. Finally, we delve into the evolution of our own golf industry podcast, a valuable platform for learning and networking, with exciting plans to expand into live discussions and interactive formats. Don't miss out on these insights and more in our latest episode!