Director of Agronomy
The Oaks Club is seeking a forward-thinking, data-driven, and highly strategic Director of Agronomy to elevate and lead all facets of golf course maintenance and major reconstruction across its prestigious 36-hole private club in Osprey, Florida. This is a high-impact leadership position reporting directly to the General Manager/Chief Operating Officer and working in collaboration with the Committee.
ABOUT THE CLUB
The Oaks Club is a prestigious, member-owned private club located near the beaches on Florida’s Gulf Coast. Home to two championship golf courses—Eagle and Heron—each featuring distinct turf varieties, the Club pairs premier amenities with a commitment to exceptional golf and lifestyle experiences. Guided by a dedication to environmental stewardship, innovation, and agronomic excellence, The Oaks Club continues to set the standard for private club living.
Club highlights:
● Total rounds - 44,000
● Total membership - 875, 580-Equity Members
● Staff size – 44
● Direct reports - Heron Golf Course Superintendent, Eagle Golf Course Superintendent, multiple assistant superintendents, equipment manager
● Committee: 9 members, meet once a month
● 2025 Budget - $5.5M including common areas
● Upcoming Projects - New Maintenance Facility, 2028 Eagle Course Renovation
● 2026 Capital - $5.1M
POSITION OVERVIEW
This Director of Agronomy will be responsible for developing and executing a master agronomic and course improvement plan, implementation of data-informed maintenance programs, and elevating the club's sustainability practices. The Club is working with Hills, Forrest on an Eagle Master Plan and renovation for 2028. This position will be part of the renovation of The Task Force.
The successful candidate will lead a multi-course team with a $5M+ operating budget, leading a team culture rooted in excellence, and delivering consistent, high quality playing conditions year round for one of the most respected private golf communities in Florida.
SUCCESS TRAITS OF INDIVIDUAL:
● Proven track record as a Director of Agronomy or Golf Course Superintendent at a multi-course facility or facility known for quality conditions.
● Deep knowledge of warm-season turf management (paspalum and bermudagrass) in coastal climates
● Foster a values-driven, accountable, and high-trust environment
● Expertise in USGA greens construction, soil science, drainage systems, and moisture management
● Strong project management experience—especially related to green reconstruction and capital improvement execution
● Demonstrated ability to manage, develop, and retain high-performing teams (50+ staff)
● Actively pursues continuing education to stay current with evolving industry standards and best practices
● Leverages technology to drive performance and remains forward-thinking in adopting innovative tools and practices.
● Strong peer and industry network
● High golf IQ with a proven understanding of golf playability standards
● Visible and approachable, takes pride in being an ambassador for the agronomy department
● Collaborative communicator who works well with boards, committees, consultants, and members
● Highly organized and adept at long-range planning and budgeting
● Humble, coachable, and team-oriented—yet capable of making hard decisions and
confident in the decision making
INITIAL PRIORITIES OF POSITION
● Evaluate and audit current golf course maintenance programs and practices.
● Implement required changes to ensure excellence of course conditions.
● Lead effective use of the Operating and Capital budget, finding efficiency where possible.
● Finalize the Golf Course Maintenance Standards Manual for full board approval and operational rollout.
● Build out a 3–5-year agronomy capital plan, equipment lifecycle strategy, and community grounds roadmap.
● Elevate staffing through recruiting, wage benchmarking, and cultural development.
● Implement enhanced maintenance protocols for the entire property including high visible areas, landscape areas and community grounds to improve aesthetic and agronomic performance.
● Ensure continuity of agronomic standards across seasonal closures, and maximize outcomes from summer project windows.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
● 2- or 4-year Turfgrass Management degree (or equivalent)
● Minimum of 10 years in a leadership role in golf course maintenance
● Renovation or new construction experience required
● Certified Golf Course Superintendent (CGCS) preferred
● Experience managing paspalum and/or TifEagle in coastal or subtropical conditions
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
● Base salary – Salary is commensurate with qualifications and experience.
● Annual performance bonus based on goals
● 100% coverage for health, dental, and vision coverage for employee
● 401(k) with match
● Club privileges and professional development support
APPLICATION PROCESS
To apply, please submit your resume, and cover letter addressed to Ms. Holly Farrell, General
Manager/COO.
Send materials to: Tyler Bloom, Search Consultant at [email protected]
Deadline to apply: August 4, 2025
All inquiries will be held in strict confidence.