Bristol, IN | In September 1955, Walter O. Wells and John Dille, Sr. accompanied Ernie Sims to his farm on CR 21 at the foot of the beautiful Bristol Hills and admired the terrain of the east 40 acres. Wells and Dille were community leaders and shared Sims’s passion for the game of golf. Ernie and Natalie Sims agreed to sell the 200 acres of farmland for $50,000 if both men agreed to organize a private club with a championship golf course. The articles of incorporation were approved by the Secretary of State on December 15, 1955. The name ELCONA is a syllabic coinage from Elkhart County, Indiana, and was the name of the Sims’ farm.
The par 72 championship golf course was created in 1956 by the legendary golf architect William Diddle and renovated by Arthur Hills in 1994. Stunning mature tree lines, Poa Annua greens, and impeccably maintained Bentgrass fairways provide a stern test of golf and a relaxing retreat for its members. The course also features a complete practice facility, built in 1996, with over an acre of tee surface, five bent grass target greens, practice bunkers, and a short game area to practice any conceivable shot a player needs. A comprehensive bunker renovation using the Better Billy Bunker system was finished in 2020.
Elcona has over 400 members, 300 of whom are golfing members, who enjoy various activities throughout the year. It features a 35,000-square-foot clubhouse and competition pool. The dining facility is the members' dining destination of choice for its tranquility and views overlooking the golf course.
Elkhart County
Elkhart County offers an exceptional combination of professional opportunity, community, and
quality of life. Located in the heart of northern Indiana, the region is recognized as one of the
Midwest's most affordable places to live while offering the amenities and conveniences expected
by today's professionals and their families.
Independent cost-of-living studies consistently show that the Elkhart area has an overall cost of
living that is approximately 9–16% below the U.S. average, with housing costs approximately
23–30% below the national average. These factors contribute to a stable, accessible housing
market and a high quality of life for residents.
Beyond affordability, Elkhart County is home to a vibrant manufacturing economy, outstanding
healthcare systems, excellent educational opportunities, and a welcoming community. Residents
enjoy a wide variety of recreational opportunities, including parks, lakes, golf courses, biking
trails, and cultural attractions throughout northern Indiana and nearby southwest Michigan.
The region's central location also provides convenient access to several major metropolitan areas,
including Chicago, Indianapolis, Detroit, and Grand Rapids, allowing residents to enjoy the
benefits of a smaller community while remaining connected to world-class entertainment,
professional sports, airports, and business centers.
Elcona
Elcona Country Club is committed to providing an exceptional experience for its members
through continuous investment in its facilities and amenities. Over the past ten years, the Club
has invested more than $5 million in capital improvements, including approximately $2.9 million
during the past three years alone.
These investments have transformed both the golf course and clubhouse, with major projects
including the construction of a new pool and Poolside restaurant, a new fleet of golf carts,
comprehensive bunker renovations, a new golf course irrigation system, renovated locker rooms,
and a completely updated Golf Shop.
The Club's commitment to excellence continues. A major renovation of the ballroom and
clubhouse lobby is scheduled to begin in early 2027, further enhancing the member experience
and positioning Elcona for continued success.
These investments reflect the confidence and commitment of Elcona's membership. The
members are dedicated to preserving the Club's proud tradition while continually improving its
facilities, amenities, and overall member experience for generations to come.
Indiana PGA Championship
2021
2005
1998
Indiana State Open
2011
Indiana State Amateur
2016
Indiana Northern Open
2018
2010
2006
Facility: Member Owned
Course Access: Private
Number of Holes: 18
Total Annual Rounds: 18,500
Number of Carts: 54
Members: 420
Primary Golf Season: April - October
Caddie Program: No
Practice Range: Yes
Short Game Area: Yes
Title: General Manager
Reports to: The General Manager reports directly to the Board of Directors and works closely with the Board President and Executive Committee. The GM serves as the primary liaison between Club management and the Board of Directors.
Supervises: All department heads and Club staff report directly or indirectly to the General Manager.
Position Description: The General Manager ("GM") serves as the Chief Operating Officer of Elcona Country Club and is responsible for the overall leadership, management, and success of all club operations. The GM works closely with the Board of Directors to implement the Club's strategic vision while delivering exceptional service, operational excellence, fiscal responsibility, and an outstanding member experience.
The GM provides leadership and direction to all department heads and employees while ensuring the Club operates in a financially sound, member-focused, and hospitality-driven manner. The GM is expected to foster a culture of professionalism, accountability, teamwork, and service excellence consistent with the traditions and values of Elcona Country Club.
Club Leadership & Operations
Provide leadership, direction, and oversight for all Club operations, including food & beverage, clubhouse operations, facilities, grounds, administration, golf, aquatics, and social programming.
Ensure the Club consistently delivers an exceptional member and guest experience.
Establish and maintain a culture of hospitality, professionalism, teamwork, accountability, and service excellence.
Lead and coordinate all department heads to ensure efficient and seamless Club operations.
Maintain high standards for cleanliness, maintenance, presentation, and operational execution throughout the property.
Improve operational policies, procedures, and service standards and ensure consistent implementation.
Promote innovation and continuous improvement in Club operations and member services.
Ensure all operations are conducted in compliance with applicable laws, regulations, licensing requirements, and safety standards.
Monitor industry trends and recommend operational improvements, technology enhancements, and best practices.
Strategic Planning & Board Support
Assist the Board of Directors with long-range strategic planning initiatives.
Provide professional guidance and recommendations regarding Club operations, staffing, facilities, and industry best practices.
Support the Board in developing and implementing short-term and long-term Club objectives. Assist in evaluating and prioritizing capital improvement projects and facility enhancements. Prepare reports, recommendations, and operational updates for Board and committee meetings.
Attend Board, committee, and membership meetings as required.
Execute Board-approved policies and strategic initiatives in a timely and effective manner. Maintain a productive and professional relationship with Board members while respecting governance boundaries and management authority.
Financial Management
Prepare and manage the Club's annual operating and capital budgets.
Monitor financial performance and ensure responsible fiscal management.
Analyze financial reports, key performance indicators, and operational metrics.
Present financial and operational reports to the Board of Directors on a regular basis.
Maintain strong internal controls and financial oversight.
Manage purchasing, inventory controls, and vendor relationships to maximize operational efficiency and cost effectiveness.
Oversee contract negotiations and service agreements with vendors, suppliers, and contractors.
Identify opportunities to improve operational efficiencies and enhance revenues while maintaining member satisfaction.
Ensure timely and accurate financial reporting and compliance with accounting policies and audit requirements.
Membership Experience & Member Relations
Develop and maintain strong relationships with Club members and guests.
Foster a welcoming, engaging, and inclusive Club environment.
Address member concerns, complaints, and suggestions promptly, professionally, and effectively.
Work collaboratively with committees to develop programs, events, and amenities that enhance member satisfaction and engagement.
Promote and support membership growth and retention initiatives.
Maintain a visible and approachable presence throughout the Club.
Encourage regular member communication and feedback to improve Club operations and experiences.
Support and enhance the Club's traditions, culture, and member-focused values.
Food & Beverage Operations
Oversee all dining and food & beverage operations to ensure quality, consistency, profitability, and exceptional service.
Collaborate with culinary and service leadership to improve menus, dining experiences, event programming, and operational efficiency.
Monitor member satisfaction with dining operations and implement improvements where necessary.
Ensure banquet, tournament, and social event operations are executed at a high level.
Develop strategies to increase dining participation and enhance the Club's social atmosphere.
Staff Leadership & Human Resources
Recruit, hire, develop, supervise, and evaluate department heads and key personnel.
Establish performance expectations and accountability standards for all staff.
Foster a positive workplace culture built on teamwork, communication, professionalism, and respect.
Promote employee development, training, mentoring, and leadership growth opportunities.
Ensure compliance with all employment laws, HR policies, and workplace safety standards.
Lead employee recognition and retention initiatives.
Conduct regular staff meetings and maintain clear communication throughout the organization.
Address personnel matters promptly and professionally.
Facilities, Grounds & Capital Projects
Coordinate with the Golf Course Superintendent and facilities personnel to maintain Club assets at the highest level.
Oversee maintenance programs for buildings, grounds, equipment, and infrastructure.
Manage capital improvement projects, renovations, and facility enhancement initiatives.
Ensure the Club maintains a safe, clean, attractive, and properly functioning environment.
Monitor contractor performance and project timelines to ensure quality and budget compliance.
Marketing & Communications
Support the Club's marketing, branding, and communication initiatives.
Oversee member communications related to Club operations, events, improvements, and initiatives.
Collaborate with staff and committees to promote Club events and member engagement.
Support social media, website, and digital communication strategies consistent with the Club's image and standards.
Assist with membership recruitment and public image initiatives as appropriate.
The successful candidate should demonstrate:
Strong leadership presence and professionalism.
Exceptional hospitality and service mindset.
Strategic thinking and long-range planning capabilities.
Financial acumen and operational discipline.
Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
Ability to build relationships with members, staff, and Board leadership.
High emotional intelligence and conflict-resolution skills.
Adaptability, initiative, and accountability.
Passion for delivering an outstanding member experience.
Including, but not limited to, the following:
Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management, Business Administration, or related field preferred.
Minimum of 7-I0 years of progressive leadership experience in private clubs, hospitality, resort, or high-end service organizations.
Certified Club Manager (CCM) designation preferred or willingness to pursue certification.
Strong financial management, budgeting, and operational experience.
Proven leadership, team-building, and staff development skills.
Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and organizational abilities.
Demonstrated success in member relations and hospitality management.
Experience managing capital projects and facility improvements preferred.
Strong understanding of governance structures within private clubs.
High level of professionalism, integrity, judgment, and discretion.
Work Environment
The General Manager position requires a flexible schedule including evenings, weekends, holidays, and attendance at Club events as necessary to meet operational and membership needs.
The GM is expected to maintain a visible presence throughout the Club and actively engage with members and staff on a regular basis.
The club will provide a compensation and benefits package commensurate with experience and qualifications. This includes but is not limited to:
Competitive base salary
Performance incentive bonus
Health and retirement benefits
Paid vacation and professional development opportunities
Club privileges consistent with Club policy
Continuing education and industry association support
All applications MUST be submitted through the PGA of America's Career Services Department as described below.
Resume deadline is August 13, 2026 at 11:59 pm Eastern Time
Combine your cover letter, resume, references, and any supporting documents into one (1) PDF document with the following file naming convention: Last Name, First Name, Elcona Country Club, General Manager
Please address all correspondence to - Mr. Mike Schoeffler | Club President | Elcona Country Club
Todd Smith, PGA, Garrett Korte, PGA, and Ken Ferrell, PGA, are leading this search. Please contact them with any questions.
Email: tsmith@pgahq.com
The employer does not wish to be contacted at this time
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