Steven McDonnell

About the Candidate

Steven McDonnell

PGA Advanced Coach | Qualified PGA Director of Golf

60 Ventnor Gardens, Gateshead, UK | 07540 730022 | stevenmcpga@outlook.com

www.stevenmcdonnellgolfacademy.co.uk

PROFESSIONAL OVERVIEW

An accomplished PGA Advanced Coach and qualified PGA Director of Golf with extensive experience in strategic golf operations and academy leadership. Currently serving as Head PGA Advanced Coach at The Golf Performance Centre(South Moor Golf Club), I possess a proven track record of increasing membership revenue, delivering exceptional customer service and elite-level coaching expertise. I use my social media influence to increase the visibility and exposure of all golf facilities while fostering a culture of excellence for members, guests, and staff.

CORE COMPETENCIES

• Coaching

I have coached over 300 winners to success, including Faye Wheatley, who claimed victory at the Faldo Series European Final — a result that earned her a place on the Ladies European Tour. I hold all the right’s to ‘The Golf Performance Centre’ brand and associated logos. This concept is fully transferable and can be implemented at any facility.

• Program Development

Creator of the Optimal Golfer Development Pathway, a structured programme designed for junior players and elite athletes.

• Operations Management: Expert in overseeing pro shops, practice facilities, and course maintenance collaboration.

• Strategic Leadership: Proven ability to hire, train, and supervise high-performing golf and retail teams.

• Financial Acumen: Experienced in budget management, revenue forecasting, and capital project planning.

• Marketing & Growth: Digital expert (80k+ followers / 2M+ impressions) with a history of driving membership sales.

• Stakeholder Relations: Expert in member retention, supplier negotiations, and community outreach.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

The Golf Performance Centre (South Moor GC) | Head PGA Advanced Coach | Feb 2025 – Present

• Operational Leadership: Manage day-to-day operations of a state-of-the-art facility, including Trackman bays and putting studios.

• Revenue Growth: Increased membership at South Moor Golf Club by ~100 new members and grew green fee revenue by 30% through targeted marketing and service excellence.

• Strategic Planning: Oversaw the inaugural launch of the facility, managing all logistics, budgets, and operational workflows.

-Set up the Foremost retail store.

 

Oakdale Golf Club (Harrogate) | Head PGA Advanced Coach / Head Professional | Jun 2023 – Feb 2025

• Customer Experience: Delivered bespoke player development strategies and integrated modern coaching technology into a traditional club environment.

• Event Management: Spearheaded club tournaments and special events to enhance member engagement and club participation.

-Help launch the new Foremost onsite retail store.

 

The Players Lounge (Tyne and Wear) | Owner / PGA Specialist Coach | Nov 2019 – Mar 2023

• Business Management: Established and managed a private indoor facility, handling all P&L responsibilities, marketing, and staff requirements.

• Product Innovation: Developed structured training frameworks that boosted long-term client retention and facility profitability.

-Srixon Fitting Centre, Retail Operations

 

Whitburn Golf Club | Head PGA Professional / Golf Operations | Jun 2017 – Oct 2019

• Full-Scale Operations: Oversaw all aspects of the golf department, including retail operations, junior academy growth, and collaboration with the grounds committee.

 

PREVIOUS BUSINESS & LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE

• Hays Recruitment | Recruitment Consultant: Specialist in talent acquisition, interviewing, and staff placement.

• Vertu Motors & Lidl | Store Training Manager: Expert in people development, operational efficiency, and large-team supervision.

• Siemens | Logistical Project Planner: Managed complex logistical schedules and project budgets.

 

PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS

• PGA Director of Golf Qualification – (Completed April 2026)

• PGA Certificate of Golf Management Theory – (2025)

• PGA Advanced Golf Coach – (2023)

• PGA Foundation Degree in Professional Golf (FdSc) – (2019)

• Trackman Professional – Level 1 & 2 Certified

• Safeguarding & Protecting Children – Current and Valid

TECHNICAL SKILLS

• Marketing: Content Creation, Web Design, and Social Media Strategy (80k+ followers).

• Operations: Event Management