KOPPLIN KUEBLER & WALLACE
The Piedmont Club General Manager/COO
KOPPLIN KUEBLER & WALLACE, Spartanburg, South Carolina, United States, 29302
GENERAL MANAGER/CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER PROFILE:
THE PIEDMONT CLUB
SPARTANBURG, SC
The Piedmont Club, a premier private club known for its rich traditions and gracious Southern hospitality, is seeking an exceptional leader to serve as its next General Manager/Chief Operating Officer (GM/COO). This is an outstanding opportunity for a dynamic and engaging professional to lead a highly respected club, blending time-honored traditions with forward-thinking innovation to ensure long-term success.
The ideal candidate will bring a deep understanding of food and beverage operations, business administration, and service excellence. A strategic mindset, adaptability, and a hands-on leadership style will be essential in maintaining the club’s distinguished reputation while enhancing the member experience. The GM/COO will have the unique opportunity to shape the future of the club—strengthening membership growth, retention, and engagement—while preserving the warm, inclusive culture that makes The Piedmont Club a cherished institution.
This role is ideal for a motivated leader who thrives on building strong teams, mentoring tenured staff, and fostering an environment of respect and accountability.
Spartanburg is a growing and thriving community, with close proximity to the mountains, sandy beaches, and the Eastern seaboard. Residents are attracted to the quality of life and the affordability of Southern living, as well as the abundance of outdoor activities and an emerging downtown. Members of The Piedmont Club are especially invested in the economic growth, development, and expansion of the city. The new GM/COO should have a true passion and desire to be an active and involved member and resident of the Spartanburg community.
GENERAL MANAGER – POSITION OVERVIEW
The General Manager/Chief Operating Officer (GM/COO) of The Piedmont Club will take full ownership of the club’s day-to-day operations, overseeing all aspects of amenities, staff, programs, and activities to ensure an outstanding experience for members and guests. This role requires a leader who is not only highly competent in club management but also deeply engaged, approachable, and proactive in recognizing industry trends and innovations. The ideal candidate will thrive in a relationship-based, multi-generational club environment, bringing visible energy and passion to the role while embracing the growth and vibrancy of the surrounding community.
To be successful, the GM/COO must quickly establish credibility with the staff, many of whom are long-tenured and highly regarded by both the Board and Membership. A natural team builder, the GM/COO will serve as a coach and motivator, setting clear goals and expectations while fostering a culture of respect, professionalism, and collaboration. This role requires strong leadership skills, an outgoing and engaging personality, and a hands-on approach. The GM/COO must balance administrative responsibilities with meaningful member and staff interactions, ensuring they remain a visible and approachable presence throughout the club.
Additionally, strategic planning experience and the ability to work effectively with the Board and Club Committees will be key to success. The GM/COO must implement a process-driven leadership style, setting and maintaining high performance standards while serving as a trusted thought partner to the Board. They must be a confident yet diplomatic professional who leads with integrity and accountability, commanding respect through their actions and decision-making. Attention to detail is critical, particularly in maintaining the facilities and surrounding grounds to the highest standards. Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, as well as a strong sense of emotional intelligence, is essential, as is an appreciation for the club’s deep-rooted Southern culture, where relationships are long-standing and personalized service is paramount.
INITIAL PRIORITIES OF THE NEW GENERAL MANAGER/CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
Listen, learn, and observe. Become familiar with the culture of the Club. Cultivate relationships with the members, their families, and team members.
Evaluate the overall member and service experience, especially in food and beverage operations, collaborating on a ‘game plan’ to innovate, elevate and enhance.
Examine the existing opportunities for gathering member feedback and assessing satisfaction levels. If needed, create a new feedback strategy plan.
Review existing technology software and platforms. Develop a plan and make recommendations to leverage technology to enhance high-touch service.
Undertake a thoughtful look at the current operation and provide the Board with a “State of the Club” report with recommendations after 100 days in this role.
Partner with the Board to create a strategic membership marketing plan, focused on attraction, recruitment and retention of members.
CANDIDATE QUALIFICATIONS
A minimum of 5-7 years of progressive leadership/management experience in a private, member-owned club environment is preferred.
Strong general management skills with verifiable strengths in team development and fiscal management.
A verifiable history of achieving strong and positive net membership engagement.
Passion for the role, with a positive, thoughtful demeanor conducive to a fun, personalized member and staff-centric environment.
A strong “bottom-up” leader who encourages personal growth.
Possessive of strong organizational skills and a natural obsession with details necessary to achieve high levels of quality.
A charismatic individual with a sense of humor and approachable style.
EDUCATIONAL AND CERTIFICATION QUALIFICATIONS
A bachelor’s degree is preferred with a focus on Hospitality Management.
In lieu of the degree, substantial private club or hospitality experience will be considered.
Industry certifications such as CCM are encouraged but not required.
SALARY AND BENEFITS
Salary is open and commensurate with qualifications and experience. The club offers an excellent bonus and benefits package, including association membership.
INSTRUCTIONS ON HOW TO APPLY
Please upload your resume and cover letter in the order listed using the link below. Prepare a thoughtful cover letter addressed to
Mrs. Rogers Brandt Settle, Club President and Search Committee Chair . Clearly articulate your alignment with this role and why The Piedmont Club and the Spartanburg, SC area will benefit you if selected. You must apply for this role as soon as possible but no later than
Tuesday, April 1, 2025.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Mrs. Rogers Brandt Settle, Club President and Search Committee Chair . Clearly articulate your alignment with this role and why The Piedmont Club and the Spartanburg, SC area will benefit you if selected. You must apply for this role as soon as possible but no later than
Tuesday, April 1, 2025.
#J-18808-Ljbffr