Jonas: The Valley Club in Sun Valley, Idaho, is an exceptional property situated at the base of the breathtaking Sawtooth Mountains. We pride ourselves on being a sophisticated mountain club, offering a blend of elegance and natural beauty.
Our facilities include 27 outstanding golf holes, a comprehensive racquets program, a dynamic fitness offering, a refreshing pool and top-notch dining experiences. We strive to provide a first-class experience in every aspect of our club, combining the charm of our mountain setting with superior amenities and services.
As General Manager of The Valley Club, I oversee all aspects of the club’s operations, ensuring that daily management runs smoothly and service standards remain exceptional. I lead and develop our staff, focusing on building a cohesive team and nurturing future leaders to maintain a high level of member satisfaction. My responsibilities include managing finances, planning and executing top-tier events and implementing marketing strategies to engage members in activities. I ensure compliance with regulations and uphold the club’s prestigious reputation through effective communication with the board, staff and members, all while fostering a collaborative and supportive team environment.
Jonas: I began my journey in the golf industry during my freshman year of high school in 2001 picking the range at a local golf course. I was fortunate to land an Assistant Professional position at Montreux Golf Club in Reno, Nevada, where I had the privilege of working under one of the golf industry’s greats, Gus Jones. At the age of 22, I couldn’t have asked for a better mentor. His guidance has been invaluable to me throughout my career, and even though I worked with Mr. Jones for only two years, he remains a mentor and a source of inspiration 17 years later.
Jonas: To set and measure goals effectively, I start by figuring out exactly what I want to achieve, making sure it's specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and has a deadline. Then, I break down the big goal into smaller, manageable steps and make a plan with clear tasks and deadlines. I keep track of progress with key performance indicators and regular check-ins to make sure I’m on track. Once the goal period is up, I look back at what worked and what didn’t and use those insights to tweak my approach or set new goals. This way, I stay focused and keep improving along the way.
Jonas: I've noticed some fantastic trends in the industry over the past few years, particularly with increased golf activity. There’s been a significant rise in junior golfers, more women getting involved and a growing emphasis on family engagement. It’s exciting to see these areas thriving and contributing to the overall growth of the game.
Jonas: To become a more effective PGA of America General Manager, I've taken several key steps. I joined the Club Management Association of America (CMAA) and immediately focused on their Food & Beverage Business Management Institute (BMI), as it was an area where I saw the most room for improvement. Since then, I’ve attended the GM/COO BMI and am actively working toward CCM certification. While prioritizing CMAA education, I’ve also stayed committed to the ongoing education offered by the PGA of America. I am certified in Executive Management and am currently pursuing my PGA Master Professional in Executive Management. I firmly believe in the value of continuous growth and learning every day to enhance my skills and effectiveness in the role.
Jonas: For aspiring PGA of America General Managers, I recommend focusing on continuous education and professional development. Engage with organizations like the CMAA and the PGA to stay current with industry trends and pursue certifications to deepen your expertise. Develop strong leadership skills by building and mentoring a cohesive team and creating a positive work environment. Enhance your operational knowledge across all areas of club management, from food and beverage to financial planning and member services. Building solid relationships with industry professionals, members and staff is crucial, as is adapting to evolving industry trends and technologies. Always prioritize the member experience, ensuring their needs and preferences are central to your management approach. Embrace a growth mindset by seeking feedback, reflecting on your experiences and being open to continuous improvement. These steps will help you establish a successful and fulfilling career in club management.
Zach Jonas, the 2017 Northern California PGA Section Professional Development Award Winner, is the PGA of America General Manager at The Valley Club in Sun Valley, Idaho.