Ridgewood Country Club – Danbury, Connecticut

Director of Agronomy

Founded in 1920, Ridgewood Country Club blends classic design with a warm, family-focused atmosphere. Members enjoy a Devereux Emmet–designed 18-hole championship course, tennis, swimming, and refined dining. Enhancements by Geoffrey Cornish and Roger Rulewich preserved the course’s heritage while improving playability. Known for exceptional conditions, personalized service, and a strong sense of camaraderie, Ridgewood stands among Connecticut’s premier private clubs.

At a Glance

• 18 holes | 6,900 yards | Slope 138 | Rating 73.5

• Architects: Devereux Emmet, Geoffrey Cornish (1966), Roger Rulewich (2002)

• 140 acres (115 maintained) | 17,000 annual rounds

• Modified push-up Poa annua greens | Bent/Poa fairways

• Maintenance Budget: $1.6M | Staff: 7 full-time, 13 seasonal

• Club Revenues: $7.1M

Position Description

Ridgewood Country Club seeks an experienced and hands-on Director of Agronomy to lead all golf course maintenance and agronomy operations. Reporting to the General Manager, this leader will ensure the course delivers exceptional playing conditions while maintaining design integrity and environmental responsibility. The role oversees turf, landscape, irrigation, and capital projects, working closely with the Green Committee and Club leadership. A visible, collaborative, and communicative approach is essential.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all golf course maintenance and agronomy operations.

• Deliver consistent, tournament-quality course conditions.

• Develop and execute agronomic, operational, and capital plans.

• Mentor, train, and evaluate staff to build a high-performing team.

• Oversee irrigation, drainage, and sustainable resource management.

• Manage budgets, equipment, and capital investments.

• Communicate regularly with the GM, Green Committee, and membership.

• Direct golf course–related capital projects and renovations.

Candidate Requirements

• Degree in Agronomy, Turfgrass Management, or related field (preferred).

• GCSAA Class A certification; CGCS designation preferred.

• Minimum of 7 years of progressive golf course management experience, ideally at a private club.

• Proven success maintaining modified push-up Poa annua greens.

• Strong leadership, mentoring, and communication skills.

• Expertise in irrigation systems, drainage, and turf management technology.

• Sound financial management and budget oversight experience.

• Active involvement in GCSAA and regional associations.

• Visible, professional, and collaborative presence with high ethical standards.

About Ridgewood Country Club | Danbury, Connecticut

DENEHY Club Thinking Partners (CTP) is posting this job on behalf of our client. CTP the premier executive search and management consulting firm for private clubs and resorts, delivering trusted expertise, strategic guidance, and proven leadership solutions worldwide.

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