Ford: Kenmure Country Club, located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Flat Rock, North Carolina, is a private club with a Joe Lee–designed championship course. We serve a membership of around 500, including 212 golf members, and pride ourselves on offering a complete, high-quality club experience.
As the PGA of America General Manager, I oversee all aspects of the club, from operations and staffing to programming and financials. A recent standout has been our investment in Toptracer Range technology, which transformed our practice area into a more dynamic, social and tech-forward experience that engages golfers of all skill levels.
Ford: I started in the golf industry in 1997 as an assistant golf professional at Black Bear Golf Club in Eustis, Florida. After eight years in the military, I followed my passion for the game and earned an associate’s degree in Golf Complex Operations from the Golf Academy of the South.
Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working with countless PGA Professionals and industry leaders who’ve shaped my growth. It’s hard to single out just one; that’s the beauty of this profession. The PGA of America and the golf industry as a whole are incredibly collaborative. Whether you're looking for advice or simply want to bounce around ideas, there’s always someone willing to help. It’s a tight-knit group of people who genuinely want to see each other succeed, and that day-to-day opportunity to learn from your peers is something I truly value.
Ford: It starts with alignment. I work closely with our leadership team and department heads to set clear, actionable goals that support both member satisfaction and financial health. From there, we break things down into measurable objectives, ranging from service benchmarks and event participation to budget performance and employee development. We review our progress regularly, adapt when needed and stay accountable through constant communication and follow-through.
Ford: One of the biggest trends has been the integration of technology, especially in practice and instruction. Tools like Toptracer Range have turned the driving range into more than just a warm-up space; it’s now a social hub and engagement tool that appeals to younger players and seasoned golfers alike. There’s also been a shift toward creating more flexible, welcoming environments that still respect the traditions of private club culture. Clubs are evolving, and the ones that find the right balance between innovation and heritage are thriving.
Ford: I’ve committed to being a continuous learner and staying open to change. Whether it's adopting new tech, improving staff training or rethinking member programming, I look for ways to improve the experience we offer. I also invest in my team’s growth, build strong relationships with members and stay focused on the financial goals that keep the club healthy and moving forward.
Ford: Be curious. Listen to your members. Understand the business side of the club just as deeply as the golf side. Build a strong team, invest in them and lead by example. And don’t be afraid to lean on others in the industry. This profession is filled with people who are willing to share ideas, offer support and help you navigate challenges. That sense of community is one of the PGA’s greatest strengths; use it.
David Ford is the PGA of America General Manager at Kenmure Country Club in Flat Rock, North Carolina.