Meet our General Manager, Robert! Next time you see him around the club, make sure you say hello!
Tell us a bit about yourself?
I am 38 years old and have grown up in the western suburbs of Adelaide. I am happily married to a Victorian girl and we have two amazing daughters, aged 3 and 5. We recently built a house at Henley Beach and are enjoying the beach lifestyle. I went to school at St Michaels College and completed a Bachelor of Finance at the University of Adelaide. Most recently I graduated from the Australian Institute of Company Directors Course. I have worked in the golf industry for 20 years and will be among the first group in Australia to complete a Certified Club Management certification through the Club Managers Association of America. I am currently on the Board of Golf Management Australia – SA Division.
What is your role and how long have you been at Glenelg Golf Club?
I am the General Manager and have been at Glenelg about 5 months. I never expected a pandemic in my first few months of working here although in saying that I have enjoyed every minute of my new role so far. The Members have been fantastic. My team of staff are amazing, I love working with them and they have been exceptional through this Covid period.
What does your typical day entail?
Nothing has been normal in my first few months given the unprecedented times surrounding Covid-19! The last couple of months have included everything from interior design and renovation management to writing multiple emails to Members with restriction updates. I am looking forward to some normality going forward. I have really enjoyed meeting Members around the Club and like to make myself available around the Clubhouse to discuss golf, the Club and anything else of interest to Members. There is still so much for me to learn about the Club, the culture and Glenelg way of life, so it has been nice to get to know everyone personally. In answer to your question my day revolves around making the Member experience at our Club as memorable as possible on every occasion.
What is your favourite thing about working here?
I love the vibe of the Club, everyone from young to mature enjoying the social atmosphere of the Club. I love the friendliness of the Members and in particular the culture as everyone is proud to be a Member of this great Club. Having come from Grange Golf Club recently I am loving the fact that I am now on the winning side of Pennant. I also like playing twilight golf through the Summer months.
What’s your favourite hole on the course?
Definitely the 19th Hole. The 8th is usually my favourite, however I hit two new Pro V’s in the water last week!
What is your handicap?
I currently have a GA of 19.3. I have booked in some lessons with Sarah King, our teaching Professional, so hopefully with some practice that comes down a little.
What is your favourite food and drink on the menu?
I love the new beer on tap, Asahi Black, after golf. As for the menu, I enjoy the Whiting partnered up with a Clare Valley Riesling.
Three words that describe you?
Caring. Loyal. Fun.