Director of Agronomy, Oak Park Club
Listed on 2026-01-11
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Management
General Management -
Sports/Fitness/Wellness
Director of Agronomy, The Oak Park Country Club
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The Oak Park Country Club | River Grove, Illinois
About The ClubFounded in 1914, The Oak Park Country Club is a premier, member‑owned private club located in the western suburbs of Chicago. The Club is known for its deep architectural roots, engaged membership, and commitment to excellence across golf, grounds, and year‑round member experience.
The historic Donald J. Ross–designed golf course anchors a 166‑acre property that continues to evolve while honoring its traditions. With a member‑approved $14 million golf course renovation scheduled to begin in 2027, the Club is entering an important and exciting new chapter.
Club at a Glance- Established in 1914
- Private, full‑service, member‑owned country club
- 18‑hole Donald J. Ross golf course
- Approximately 21,000 annual rounds
- 166 total acres, 147 acres maintained
- $11.8 M in annual gross revenues
- $1.85 M annual golf course and grounds operating budget
The Director of Agronomy reports to the General Manager/COO and is responsible for all golf course and grounds operations. The role provides strategic leadership for agronomy, daily playing conditions, long‑term planning, staff development, and capital project execution.
The Director of Agronomy works closely with the Head Golf Professional and Grounds Committee and serves as a visible, trusted leader to members, staff, and Club leadership. This position will play a key role in preparation for and execution of the Club’s upcoming 2027 golf course renovation.
What You’ll Do- Lead all golf course and grounds operations, including the course, practice areas, and Club landscaping
- Deliver outstanding daily and tournament playing conditions
- Hire, train, mentor, and lead a team of approximately 20 staff members
- Develop and execute annual and long‑term agronomic plans
- Prepare and manage operating and capital budgets
- Ensure compliance with regulatory, safety, and environmental standards
- Serve as the Club’s primary internal liaison for the 2027 golf course renovation
- Communicate consistently with leadership, committees, and membership
- Collaborate with the Head Golf Professional on course setup and member experience
- Represent the Club professionally within the local and regional turfgrass community
- Minimum of 10 years of progressive golf course management experience
- Experience leading agronomy at a high‑quality private club
- Expertise in bentgrass and poa annua management
- Proven success leading major capital projects
- Strong financial acumen with budgeting and forecasting experience
- Demonstrated ability to build and retain high‑performing teams
- Clear and confident communication skills with the ability to manage up
- Professional, approachable leadership style
- CGCS designation preferred but not required
Interested candidates should complete the online candidate profile form and submit a compelling cover letter and resume for consideration to DENEHY Club Thinking Partners at If you have any questions or to recommend a candidate, please contact Pat Finlen at 203 319 8228 or by email at
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