Know your Golf Club's GM - Gavin Chowles, Port Elizabeth Golf club

Know your Golf Club's GM - Gavin Chowles, Port Elizabeth Golf club

You have been in the management industry for a long time, what made you choose this career?

It all happened by accident, I was in the job market and I received a mail from the PEGC President informing members that the manager has resigned, I decided that I should try and was successful with my application.

Are there any unique differences being a GM at a golf club?

I come from the retail industry, hotels and restaurants, mainly in the casino environment, dealing with many different cultures of people. Golfers are similar to gamblers, wanting the best every time when they visit.

I think the biggest challenge in life is to keep fellow workers motivated

Who has been your biggest mentor?

As I come from the entertainment industry, I would like to recognise my first GM in my casino employment, Graham Vaas, true gentlemen that was driven by service.

Describe a typical workday for you at Port Elizabeth GC?

My day will always start with a walkabout, I make sure I go and greet everyone that is at work, fellow employees, then off to greet all members that are at the club. Once all that is over, I move to my office to start with mails etc.

What are your biggest challenges as the GM of Port Elizabeth GC?

I think the biggest challenge in life is to keep fellow workers motivated, to ensure the working environment is friendly and enjoyable, whilst still getting the job done.

The main factor in my opinion, is consistency, always making sure that a customers visit is better than their previous visit

Has the golf industry grown in your opinion over the last 3 years ?

I have only been in the industry for 4 years, personally I think golf clubs are better off now than previously.

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With consumers already being careful on how they spend their money these days, what is your plan to attract people to Port Elizabeth GC?

To give them the best experience when visiting our club, whether for golf, light meal or just a drink.

In your opinion, what factors contribute to excellent customer service and keeping your standards at such high levels?

The main factor in my opinion, is consistency, always making sure that a customers visit is better than their previous visit, this will make them return numerous times.

Does your position require you to be available on weekends, evenings, and holidays, and if so, does this place demands on your personal life?

Yes, I am fortunate that my family has always known my working hours to be different to our friends and family, they support my industry and when I am off, generally on a Sunday, we spend family time together.

What are your short & long term goals?

Personal goals are reviewed yearly, work goals are reviewed quarterly.

What do you enjoy doing in your free time?

I enjoy racket ball, padel and walking. I often play golf at other clubs when not at work, playing at my club feels like work.

Do you still get time to play a round of golf?

Yes, sometimes I play with members, I generally try and play twice a month with committee members or members.