Senior Director of Operations (Pre-Opening)

Property Description:

A new chapter in Pacific Northwest destination golf is underway just outside Pasco, Washington. Perched atop dramatic bluffs, this in-development, David McLay Kidd project is positioned to become one of the most compelling new golf experiences in the United States.

Set within the sweeping landscapes of the Columbia River Basin, the property features sandy soils, rolling contours, firm-playing ground, and expansive long views. The Snake River’s presence provides a dramatic and powerful natural backdrop that will define the course’s visual and strategic identity.

Position Summary:

The Senior Director of Operations will serve as the operational leader responsible for transforming River Ranch from an active construction project into one of the country’s premier golf resort destinations. This leader will oversee all aspects of operational planning, implementation, and execution during development, pre-opening, and the transition into full resort operations.

Working closely with ownership, architects, contractors, consultants, and KemperSports support teams, this leader will ensure every operational component, from technology systems and guest services to staffing, training, retail, food & beverage, and golf operations is thoughtfully planned, implemented, tested, and executed.

The successful candidate is equal parts strategist, project manager, operator, and culture builder. They thrive in ambiguity, communicate exceptionally well, and possess the ability to move seamlessly from executive planning meetings to frontline training.

 

Primary Duties and Responsibilities:

Pre-Opening & Operational Leadership

• Lead operational planning from construction through opening and stabilization.
• Partner with ownership, architects, contractors, and consultants to align operational readiness with key construction milestones.
• Develop operating standards, policies, budgets, timelines, and opening plans.
• Coordinate procurement, FF&E installation, and operational readiness across all departments.

 Systems & Technology

• Lead implementation of the resort’s POS, reservations, tee sheet, retail, and business systems.
• Partner with KemperSports IT and vendors to ensure successful system integration, testing, and staff training.

Team Development

• Recruit, hire, onboard, and develop department leaders and key team members.
• Build a collaborative, service-driven culture through coaching, communication, and accountability.
• Establish effective training programs and operational procedures prior to opening.

Guest Experience

• Oversee the development of the reservations operation, including hiring and training the reservations team.
• Partner with Sales & Marketing to support opening initiatives, resort programming, and guest engagement.
• Ensure consistent service standards across golf, hospitality, retail, and food & beverage.

Financial & Administrative Leadership

• Develop and manage operating budgets, forecasts, and financial reporting.
• Oversee purchasing, vendor relationships, inventory controls, and operational reporting.
• Monitor performance metrics and implement continuous operational improvements.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Foster strong communication between ownership, development partners, department leaders, and KemperSports support teams.
• Coordinate closely with Agronomy, Golf Operations, Food & Beverage, Sales & Marketing, and IT to ensure seamless execution before and after opening.
• Serve as a visible leader and ambassador for River Ranch throughout development and opening.

 

Qualifications & Requirements:

• College degree preferred.
• Class A PGA member status preferred.
• 7+ years applicable management experience.
• Director of Golf experience managing multi-course resorts, emphasizing destination resorts or high-end daily-fee club operations preferred.
• Proven success in budgeting, financial management, strategic planning, and operational leadership.
• Demonstrated ability to develop innovative programming that enhances the guest experience and drives revenue growth.
• Strong leadership, coaching, and change management skills with the ability to build high-performing, cross-functional teams.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate across all levels of the organization.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with experience using data to drive operational and financial performance.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (advanced Excel preferred) and hospitality technology platforms, including POS and operational management systems.
• Working knowledge of inventory management, procurement, vendor relations, and cost-control practices.
• Highly organized, adaptable, and capable of managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced, evolving environment.
• Professional presence with a commitment to exceptional guest service and a collaborative leadership style.

 

Supervises:
Golf & Guest Services Leadership Team, F&B Management Team, and other functional staff.

 

Physical Requirements:

Must have the ability to:

• Read and write (English)
• Communicate verbally with staff members and or guests with or without the use of two-way radios.
• Give and or follow verbal and written instructions
• Visually inspect all work areas
• Operate transport vehicles
• Stand, sit, walk, push, pull, lift, grasp, bend and kneel for up to 5 hours at a time
• Lift up to 100 lbs. occasionally, 50 lbs. frequently, and 20 lbs. constantly

 

Working Conditions:

Work hours may include days and evenings on weekdays and weekends. Subject to inside and outside environmental conditions.  May be exposed to inclement weather or misdirected golf balls. Safety compliance is essential to prevent injuries from environmental conditions and equipment hazards.

 

Classification:
Full-time, Non-Seasonal, Salaried, Exempt

 

Compensation & Benefits:

Health insurance, retirement plan, paid time off, professional development support

 

Salary Range:
$95,000 – $110,00 annually

 

Equal Opportunity Statement

KemperSports is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and organizational need.