Director of Membership and Communications

Job Description Job Description Position: Director of Membership and Communications Location: Bedminster, NJ Organization: Fiddler’s Elbow Classification: FLSA Exempt, Full Time Reports To: General Manager Direct Reports: Membership Coordinator, Brand Ambassador, Communications Coordinator and Communications Assistant Fiddler’s Elbow Country Club is a premier, private club located on over 1,200 scenic acres in Bedminster, New Jersey. Renowned as the only club in the state to boast three championship golf courses—the Forest, River, and Meadow—we offer an unparalleled "lifestyle" experience that blends historic elegance with modern, family-centric luxury. From our iconic Pennsylvania fieldstone English Manor Clubhouse to our state-of-the-art Sports and Leisure Center, Fiddler’s Elbow has evolved from its corporate roots into a vibrant, hybrid community for individuals, families, and business leaders. Recognized as a Distinguished Emerald Club of the World, we are committed to our mission of enhancing the lives of our members through "WOW" moments and a service-driven culture. Position Overview Fiddler’s Elbow is seeking a Director of Membership and Communications to join our executive leadership team. As a key member of senior management, this individual is responsible for the entire membership lifecycle—from strategic recruitment to high-level relationship management and retention. The position requires a visionary leader who can balance operational excellence with creative club-wide communications and brand storytelling. The director provides direct leadership and professional development for a dedicated internal team and will partner closely with our external public relations team to ensure a consistent, sophisticated voice across all messaging to the membership and the public. Essential Functions Executive Leadership & Team Management • Develop and implement high-level strategies to meet club membership goals and ensure long-term club viability. • Direct, mentor, and evaluate the internal department team of four individuals to ensure departmental goals are met with excellence. • Serve as the primary management liaison to the membership, ensuring member interests are addressed at the executive level. • Promote a positive work environment through effective communication and a warm, engaging atmosphere. Strategic Communications & Public Relations • Partner closely with the club’s external public relations team to ensure absolute consistency in brand voice, messaging, and media representation. • Oversee the club’s mobile app and social media strategy. • Assist in crisis communication management. • Oversee the Communications Coordinator in the production of newsletters, magazines, direct mail, table tents, and digital platforms. • Oversee the internal staff member communications. • Direct the Brand Ambassador to ensure that the excellent member experience is consistently represented across all member touchpoints, and exceptional moments are created for members. • Represent the club in community activities and civic organizations to maintain brand awareness and develop external referral sources. Member Relationship & Retention Management • Actively engage with the membership and maintain high visibility throughout the club. • Personally meet each club member to instill confidence that the club is operated in their best interest; respond to member feedback to continuously improve services. • Analyze membership data to identify trends and develop proactive projects to address potential attrition. • Lead the orientation program for new members, ensuring a sophisticated introduction to the club’s privileges and traditions. Membership Sales & Recruitment • Research demographics and market segmentation to ensure the club meets the needs of an ever-changing market. • Develop and pitch new membership categories or tiered pricing models for “additional membership” opportunities for existing amenities and long-term planning for new amenities and properties as they come on board. • Plan and direct “Waitlist” management and strategy. • Direct the Membership Coordinator in following up on referrals, catering leads, and telemarketing efforts; maintain a perpetual member invitee roster. • Conduct tours for high-profile prospective members and host prospective member functions. Financial & Administrative Oversight • Develop and adhere to a departmental budget; monitor performance and take corrective action to ensure financial goals are attained. • Track the success of all membership activities and provide comprehensive reporting to the Controller and General Manager. Qualifications & Skills • 5+ years of progressive leadership experience in sales, communications, or membership, preferably within a luxury private club or high-end hospitality environment. • Bachelor’s Degree preferred. • A self-starter with a strong sense of urgency, an approachable demeanor, and the ability to collaborate effectively with other department heads. • Superior written and verbal skills with a talent for storytelling and brand consistency. • Proficient in CRM databases; a background in or knowledge of golf traditions is highly preferred. • Active involvement in the Club Management Association of America (CMAA) or Professional Club Marketing Association (PCMA) is preferred. Physical Requirements and Working Conditions • Must be able to remain in a stationary position (sitting or standing) for prolonged periods during office work and events. • Ability to move throughout the building and club grounds frequently to access different facilities or conduct tours. • Must be able to reach, bend, stoop, and occasionally move objects weighing up to 40 pounds. (e.g., event supplies, membership kits). • Work is performed in both indoor climate-controlled environments and outdoor settings. • Must be able to handle and operate in varying weather conditions, including extreme heat, cold, rain, or humidity, especially during outdoor member events or course tours. Benefits Include: We offer a highly competitive executive compensation package, including commission for sales and retention. Benefits include comprehensive healthcare, 401(k), and exclusive access to our world-class golf, paddle/tennis, and fitness facilities.  How to Apply: Interested and qualified candidates are invited to apply online at fiddlerselbowcc.com/careers. Please include an up-to-date resume and a brief cover letter detailing your leadership and membership philosophies. Salary: USD 72000 - 108000 per year Experience: 5 years required