The Growing Role of Wellness Leadership

By Scott McNett

Wellness has become a much bigger part of the private club experience. Members increasingly expect their clubs to support healthier, more balanced lifestyles, and the old model of a small gym with a few cardio machines is being replaced by a more complete approach. In his latest blog, Scott McNett, Managing Principal at GSI Executive Search, explores how clubs are expanding into five key areas: movement, recovery, nutrition, mental well-being and connection. He also outlines the steps clubs can take to build a strong foundation and why dedicated leadership may be needed to bring it all together. Read the full blog.

Developed beginning in 1980 and originally envisioned as a home for the LPGA, TPC Houston in Sugar Land, Texas, was known as Sweetwater Country Club until March 2026, when it joined the PGA TOUR’s TPC Network. The affiliation brings TPC Passport privileges to a membership of 1,278 that enjoys two 18-hole championship courses, eight outdoor and four indoor tennis courts, pickleball, indoor and outdoor pools, fitness amenities and a full slate of dining and social programming.



The General Manager will oversee every area of the operation, from golf, course maintenance and food and beverage to racquet sports, aquatics, membership sales, facilities, finance and human resources. Early priorities include building trust with members, employees and ownership, establishing consistent service standards across departments and aligning department leaders around operating plans, budgets and measurable goals. A coaching mindset and an open-door approach will be key as the General Manager develops the leadership team and represents the Club within the Sugar Land community.

Established in 1965, Haworth Country Club is a private, non-equity club set on approximately 175 acres in Bergen County, New Jersey, with convenient access to New York City. Its multicultural membership of approximately 420 enjoys an 18-hole championship golf course redesigned by Robert Trent Jones Jr. in 2000, a year-round tennis, pickleball and fitness center with seven indoor courts, and American and Asian-inspired dining alongside weddings, corporate functions and golf outings. Ownership continues to invest in the property, with a clubhouse refresh, course bridge replacements and a new irrigation system planned for 2027.

The Senior Director of Operations is a newly created position that reports to the General Manager and oversees day-to-day operations across golf, food and beverage, banquets, racquets, recreation and member services. Leading five department directors, including finance, this leader will set clear expectations, manage budgets, labor and cost controls, and partner with the General Manager to strengthen operating systems, staffing and standards. A visible, approachable and culturally aware style will be key to preserving Haworth's entrepreneurial culture while building well-trained teams and consistent execution throughout the Club.

North Carolina State University Club in Raleigh, North Carolina, is seeking a Clubhouse Manager to lead daily operations at a family-oriented private club governed by its more than 900 members. Founded in 1961, the Club has completed phases one and two of a $25M master plan and is known for its racquet sports, expansive aquatic complex, Par-3 golf course and full calendar of member events.



This senior-level role carries a strong focus on food and beverage, from member dining outlets and banquets to catering sales and a growing wine and craft beer program. The Clubhouse Manager will lead a tenured management team, oversee budgeting, hiring, training and menu development and partner with the GM/COO to build a Member-Centric service culture.

Founded in 1916, Irondequoit Country Club in Rochester, New York, is anchored by a championship 18-hole golf course designed by Donald Ross. Members also enjoy a robust racquet and court sports program, a full fitness facility and dining that reflects the Club's high standards of hospitality. Guided by an engaged Board of Governors, the Club remains financially sound and strategically focused while preserving a culture rooted in family and tradition.

Irondequoit is seeking a General Manager/Chief Operating Officer to oversee daily operations and staff while partnering with the Board of Governors on strategic direction, financial planning and capital projects. The ideal candidate will bring private club or comparable hospitality leadership experience, strong financial acumen and a presence that earns the trust of members, employees and the Board.