The Oak Park Country Club | River Grove, Illinois
Director of Agronomy

About the Club
Founded 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.

The 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
  • $11.8M in annual gross revenues
  • $1.85M annual golf course and grounds operating budget

About the Position
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

What We’re Looking For

• 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

Apply for This Position
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 http://denehyctp.com/apply-for-a-position/. If you have any questions or to recommend a candidate, please contact Pat Finlen at 203 319 8228 or by email at patrick@denehyctp.com.