Senior Director of Operations; Pre

Property Description

A new chapter in Pacific Northwest destination golf is underway just outside Pasco, Washington. Perched atop dramatic bluffs, this in-development, David McLay Kidd project is positioned to become one of the most compelling new golf experiences in the United States.

Set within the sweeping landscapes of the Columbia River Basin, the property features sandy soils, rolling contours, firm-playing ground, and expansive long views. The Snake River's presence provides a dramatic and powerful natural backdrop that will define the course's visual and strategic identity.

The Senior Director of Operations will serve as the operational leader responsible for transforming River Ranch from an active construction project into one of the country’s premier golf resort destinations. This leader will oversee all aspects of operational planning, implementation, and execution during development, pre-opening, and the transition into full resort operations.

Working closely with ownership, architects, contractors, consultants, and Kemper Sports support teams, this leader will ensure every operational component, from technology systems and guest services to staffing, training, retail, food & beverage, and golf operations is thoughtfully planned, implemented, tested, and executed.

The successful candidate is equal parts strategist, project manager, operator, and culture builder. They thrive in ambiguity, communicate exceptionally well, and possess the ability to move seamlessly from executive planning meetings to frontline training.

• Lead operational planning from construction through opening and stabilization.
• Partner with ownership, architects, contractors, and consultants to align operational readiness with key construction milestones.
• Develop operating standards, policies, budgets, timelines, and opening plans.
• Coordinate procurement, FF&E installation, and operational readiness across all departments.

• Lead implementation of the resort's POS, reservations, tee sheet, retail, and business systems.
• Partner with Kemper Sports IT and vendors to ensure successful system integration, testing, and staff training.

• Recruit, hire, onboard, and develop department leaders and key team members.
• Build a collaborative, service-driven culture through coaching, communication, and accountability.
• Establish effective training programs and operational procedures prior to opening.

• Oversee the development of the reservations operation, including hiring and training the reservations team.
• Partner with Sales & Marketing to support opening initiatives, resort programming, and guest engagement.
• Ensure consistent service standards across golf, hospitality, retail, and food & beverage.

• Develop and manage operating budgets, forecasts, and financial reporting.
• Oversee purchasing, vendor relationships, inventory controls, and operational reporting.
• Monitor performance metrics and implement continuous operational improvements.

• Foster strong communication between ownership, development partners, department leaders, and Kemper Sports support teams.
• Coordinate closely with Agronomy, Golf Operations, Food & Beverage, Sales & Marketing, and IT to ensure seamless execution before and after opening.
• Serve as a visible leader and ambassador for River Ranch throughout development and opening.

• College degree preferred.
• Class A PGA member status preferred.
• 7+ years applicable management experience.
• Director of Golf experience managing multi-course resorts, emphasizing destination resorts or high-end daily-fee club…