Country Club of Darien | Darien, Connecticut  
Chief Financial Officer

About the Club
In 1957, Edgar S. Auchincloss had a vision of turning his family’s 200 acre “gentleman’s farm” into a club. The family originally bought the farm in 1905 as a vacation retreat and in 1956 the family transformed the land into the grounds of the Country Club of Darien. By June of 1957, 250 charter members had been assembled and the Club opened its doors and membership quickly expanded to 400. The golf course was designed in 1958 by Alred Tull and available for play that year.

Over the years, the membership has continued to invest in the Clubhouse and amenities. The Club now offers 18 holes of championship golf with vibrant caddy program, eight Har-Tru tennis courts, six paddle courts with a recently built Paddle Hut, six lane pool with diving well, new pool bar, multiple dining outlets, and a fitness center to the over 700 members.

The original golf course was designed by Alfred Tull who was the partner of noted course architect Devereux Emmet. In 2007, Dr. Michael Hurdzan, architect of US Open host Erin Hills, was commissioned to modernize the course. He earned the Renovation of the Year award in 2010 by Golf, Inc for the work done at Country Club of Darien. The course hosted the 2018 Met Match Play Championship, 2019 Westchester Open, 2021 Connecticut State Open, 2022 IKE MGA Stroke Plan and the 2022 Ladies MET Open. The Club’s practice facilities are the most expansive in the area and include two practice ranges, and two chipping greens alongside the main putting green. An indoor Golf Performance Studio provides year-round hitting facilities, golf lessons and high-tech swing analysis.

The Club is designed to be very family friendly offering six weeks of children’s camps, swim/dive/water polo teams and lessons, and junior golf and tennis programs and teams. There are active social and competitive adult programs including USTA Tennis and APTA Platform Tennis offerings. The Paddle Hut that was completed in 2013 features a lounge area with a stone fireplace, observation deck and built-in fire pit to add to the winter activity list.

The Clubhouse operates year-round, closing only on Mondays, ensuring consistent access and enjoyment for members. Over the past 12 years, the Club has strategically invested more than $20 million in upgrades through an effective Capital Budget. Recent enhancements include the addition of a new pool bar and a zero-entry children’s pool, the rebuilding of six of the eight tennis courts with an advanced irrigation system, and the renovation of all greens and bunkers. Looking ahead, the Club is in the early stages of a transformative Master Plan, anticipated to exceed $20 million upon approval. Key projects underway include a $6.5 million irrigation system slated to begin in July and the addition of four pickleball courts this spring, a $750,000 investment.

About the Position
The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) is a strategic leader and essential member of the Club’s executive team, responsible for safeguarding its financial health and driving operational excellence. Reporting directly to the General Manager, the CFO ensures financial precision, transparency, and alignment with the Club’s vision. This position offers a unique opportunity to lead financial strategy, collaborate with key stakeholders, and impact on the Club’s long-term success.

Key Responsibilities:

• Strategic Financial Leadership: Partner with the Finance Committee and General Manager to develop budgets, perform cost-benefit analyses, forecast financial needs, and refine internal controls. Present monthly reports to the Finance Committee and an annual financial review to the Board of Directors.
• Comprehensive Financial Management: Oversee all aspects of accounting, auditing, tax compliance, and budgetary functions. Ensure the accuracy and timeliness of financial reporting and maintain a robust internal control framework.
• Performance Analysis & Insights: Evaluate financial data to identify trends, analyze costs and revenues, and recommend strategies for improving profitability and operational efficiency.
• Systematic Oversight: Supervise accounts receivable, accounts payable, payroll, cost accounting, and bank reconciliations. Monitor and refine financial procedures and systems to ensure seamless operations.
• Collaborative Partnership: Work closely with the Director of Human Resources to administer and negotiate Club benefit plans, ensuring financial alignment with organizational goals.
• Leadership & Innovation: Provide actionable financial insights to guide decision-making, support growth initiatives, and enhance member experiences.

Why This Role Stands Out:

• Opportunity to lead financial strategy at a prestigious Club.
• Collaborate with an experienced management team and influential stakeholders.
• Shape the Club’s future through innovative financial solutions and strategic insights.

The CFO role is a pivotal position for a seasoned financial professional who thrives on delivering results, fostering collaboration, and making a lasting impact on the organization’s success.

About the Ideal Candidate
The ideal candidate is an accomplished financial leader with extensive experience in accounting and finance, particularly in the hospitality or non-profit sectors. With a bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance (MBA, CHAE, or CPA preferred), he/she has over 7 years of progressive experience, including 3+ years in a CFO role. Known for integrity, strategic insight, and a member-focused approach, this individual excels in financial stewardship, team leadership, and operational efficiency. He/she is well-equipped to drive growth, innovation, and long-term success.

Experience Highlights:

• 7+ years of professional accounting, including 3+ years as a CFO.
• Strong background in hospitality and/or non-profit financial operations.
• Steady career progression with increasing responsibility and impact.
• Expertise in IT management, application implementation, and vendor relations.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills; proficient in club/hospitality financial and POS software.
  Skilled in banking relationships, capital campaigns, and long-term planning.
• Thorough understanding of Connecticut State and Federal Tax regulations.

Key Skills & Attributes:

• Leadership Excellence: Exceptional at inspiring, managing, and mentoring teams.
• Integrity & Work Ethic: Known for unwavering dedication and professionalism.
• Analytical Expertise: A strategic thinker with sound judgment and problem-solving skills.
• Member-Focused: Positive, approachable, and committed to outstanding service.
• Mentorship: Skilled in coaching department heads on financial strategies and stewardship.
• Adaptability: Flexible schedules, including early starts, nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Engaged Presence: Actively involved with employees and members, fostering collaboration and trust.

The ideal candidate combines technical expertise with visionary leadership to ensure financial health, operational efficiency, and elevated member experience.

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 Karen Alexander at 203.319.8228 or by email at karen@denehyctp.com.