It's a very critical position that almost sets the personality of the entire club. They must have the personality and people skills to work with all department heads and the members. The way I see it, the superintendent is a management position. They manage people, money, materials, and club managers are also managers of all of the resources. Those two parallel each other well.
Some folks look at superintendents as only technicians, but they are that and more.
Jim Faubian, Executive VP Club Corporation of America General managers for all types of golf facilities may very well come from the ranks of golf course superintendents. Although every golf course is different in its organizational structure, today's superintendents are increasingly assuming the responsibilities for other operational functions relating to the management of the entire facility. Superintendents already manage the largest work force and the greatest portion of most facilities' budgets. Additionally, they are responsible for vast acres and millions of dollars worth of real estate, and they must be fully aware of and comply with federal, state and local laws, rules and regulations. This expanded knowledge, broadened management skills, and continuing education makes the superintendent an obvious choice when needing to fulfill the position of general manager.