1 rich Libsyn https://www.libsyn.com 90 600 In this episode, we chat with Dave Porter, CEO and GM of Greystone Golf and Country Club, about how he transformed his club's governance from a traditional committee-based structure to a CEO-led model. Dave shares his journey of building trust, empowering staff, and creating a more efficient decision-making process that's helping the club thrive. Key Moments: Setting the Stage [00:00:00]: Ed introduces the challenges of traditional club governance and why change is needed in today's competitive landscape. The Early Days at Greystone [00:05:01]: Dave discusses his initial requests when hired, including changing how committees report and operate within the club structure. Building Trust [00:11:05]: Insights into how Dave gradually built trust with members and staff through focus groups, operational changes, and transparent communication. Pandemic Innovations [00:03:48]: Discussion of creative member engagement initiatives during COVID, including the still-popular sunset cart cruises. Committee Evolution [00:15:15]: Dave explains how he streamlined committees from 12 to a more focused structure, making them advisory to management rather than the board. Culture Creation [00:40:23]: Exploration of how the new structure enables better staff culture, using the example of &quot;Wimbledon on the Green&quot; event to show improved interdepartmental cooperation. Leadership Qualities [00:43:54]: Discussion of what GMs should consider before pursuing a CEO model, including risk tolerance and leadership style. Member Communication [00:17:16]: Dave shares his approach to keeping members engaged through informal channels like &quot;Happy Hour with Dave&quot; instead of formal committees. Board Meeting Changes [00:32:40]: How board meetings evolved to become more strategic and focused on big-picture items rather than operational details. Final Thoughts [00:50:34]: Dave emphasizes the importance of staff retention and positive culture in creating sustainable club operations. Crushing Club Marketing Podcast https://www.clubmarketing.com/blog/topic/crushing-club-marketing-podcast <iframe title="Libsyn Player" style="border: none" src="//html5-player.libsyn.com/embed/episode/id/35102480/height/90/theme/custom/thumbnail/yes/direction/forward/render-playlist/no/custom-color/88AA3C/" height="90" width="600" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen webkitallowfullscreen mozallowfullscreen oallowfullscreen msallowfullscreen></iframe> https://assets.libsyn.com/secure/content/185391285