The Island Golf Club, founded in 1890, is a traditional Members' club with a proud history. Situated on a peninsula and overlooked by the coastal village of Malahide, the links is nestled within some of the most stunning sand dune formations on the East coast of Ireland. It is generally regarded as one of Ireland's finest links courses.

The Club enjoys a strong international reputation, attracting large numbers of overseas visitors and has played host to many national and international championships.

Recent changes to the links, undertaken under the direction of architects McKenzie & Ebert, reflect the Club's ambition to strive for continuous improvement. In 2026, the Club is hosting three R&A events: the Ireland Regional Qualifying for The Open Championship, and the Jacques Leglise and Junior Vagliano Trophies.

The Role

Following the departure of the current Links Superintendent, the Club is now inviting applications for this position. The Club seeks to recruit a highly motivated and ambitious individual who can demonstrate strong abilities in all aspects of golf course management.

The successful candidate will be capable of organising, motivating and managing the greenkeeping team and must bring a very high standard of presentation to the links. They will have a proven track record of success in a similar working environment and the vision to build on the significant investment already made in the course.

Responsibilities & Duties

The Links Superintendent will be responsible for, but not limited to, the following:

• Manage the day-to-day operations of the links, including the delegation and supervision of duties to ensure works are completed to the expected standard.
• Prepare and implement a planned programme of works to maintain the course at the required high standard, with this programme documented and communicated to all relevant stakeholders.
• Agronomic management of the links including fine grass maintenance, bunker management, and the ongoing care of the distinctive dune landscape.
• Develop the greenkeeping team to enhance performance, instil a strong work ethic and promote a positive workplace culture.
• Carry out a skills audit of existing staff and prepare and implement personal training plans to address any gaps.
• Carry out annual performance appraisals and set KPIs for team members.
• Manage the budgeting and financial processes for the links department, including budget preparation, forecasting, expenditure monitoring, cost analysis and supplier relationships.
• Oversee the overall water management of the links and maintain the computer-controlled irrigation system.
• Plan, manage and maintain the maintenance equipment inventory, ensuring all preventative maintenance is carried out and machinery is kept in the best possible condition.
• Lead preparation for and delivery of major events, including R&A and national championship events hosted by the Club.
• Participate in Greens Committee meetings and provide regular reports to the relevant committee and management structure.
• Ensure full compliance with health and safety legislation and the Club's Safety Statement.
• Implement and maintain an environmentally sustainable maintenance programme, with a genuine interest in the ecology and natural environment of the links.

Requirements

• A minimum of five years' experience as a Head Greenkeeper or Deputy Superintendent, with links experience strongly preferred.
• Recognised industry qualifications in golf course management, greenkeeping and pesticide application techniques (PA1, PA2 and PA6 as a minimum).
• Experience working with sustainable fine grasses, particularly fescues and bent grasses, which are the preferred grasses in a links environment.
• Proven ability to motivate, manage and supervise a greenkeeping team, with strong leadership and interpersonal skills.
• Proven ability in record keeping, budgetary preparation, forecasting and monitoring.
• Proficiency with modern communications and IT systems, including golf course management software (e.g. Turf Keeper) and irrigation management systems.
• Knowledge and understanding of health and safety legislation and requirements.
• The ability to prepare and implement personal training plans for existing staff.
• The ability to implement an environmentally sustainable maintenance programme.
• The ability to plan, manage and maintain the maintenance equipment inventory.
• A commitment to ongoing professional development and keeping abreast of advances in greenkeeping methods, technology and industry best practice. Active membership of a professional greenkeeping association (ATPI, BIGGA, GCSAA or equivalent) is desirable.
• Full driving licence.

Remuneration

A highly competitive remuneration package, reflective of the status of this role, will be offered to the successful candidate. The Club also supports and encourages ongoing professional development, including attendance at industry events and conferences.

Closing Date

14th July 2026

The Island Golf Club is an equal opportunities employer.

How to Apply

Applications, including a full CV and a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role, should be submitted in confidence to the Honorary Secretary via the link below.