As we’ve traveled across the country visiting clubs over the years, we’ve been fortunate to identify certain best practices that consistently lead to high performing clubs. We encourage clubs to seek out industry best practices, adapt them to their specific operation and implement those best
One of the effects of the COVID-19 virus has been a wake-up call for clubs to return to their original purpose. Clubs need to reflect on the basic mission of serving members rather than trying to run semi-public banquet centers, public golf courses for outings
While cognizant of the personal tragedies and economic havoc brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, the reality is that it has been the best thing to happen to private country clubs and gated communities in the past 20 years. As the world moved at warp
“Whatever women do, they must do twice as well as men to be thought half as good.” ~ Charlotte Whitton There is no argument that the private club industry has been and continues to be dominated by men. Charlotte Witton’s exasperation stated above—while a gender
WHEN A CLUB’S volunteer leadership is made up of individuals with extensive experience sitting on and leading corporate or nonprofit boards, general managers can be at a disadvantage in the boardroom. The relationship between manager and board is critical, but such disparate backgrounds can make it
The private club industry is a vibrant and ever changing community. Members, staff and general managers have often called multiple clubs “home” throughout their club lives, making private clubs one of the most supportive and inclusive segments of the hospitality industry. In particular, general managers
Chicagoland is home to many prestigious and thriving private clubs. To remain relevant, satisfy members’ expectations, and enjoy a bustling year-round clubhouse, clubs must contend with competition as well as with Mother Nature. After an ambitious renovation/construction project, members of Highland Park’s Exmoor Country Club
ACROSS CORPORATE America companies tend to announce, well in advance, a leader’s impending departure. These announcements are often followed by the naming of a successor. This best practice approach is designed to minimize the uncertainty among stakeholders as to how the company intends to move
As we look to the future of the private club industry, we see two interconnected issues having the most impact of club success: How clubs are governed? How clubs are managed? Without effective leadership in both areas, clubs will languish and slowly decline.