Metcma
SEAWANHAKA CORINTHIAN YACHT CLUB – Oyster Bay, NY
Job Posting
Jan. 6, 2026
GENERAL MANAGER/CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER OPPORTUNITY AT SEAWANHAKA CORINTHIAN YACHT CLUB An amazing opportunity exists for candidates with a successful track record of leadership and high-quality operations management at experience-centric club operations. We are conducting the General Manager/Chief Operating Officer (GM/COO) search for the historic Seawanhaka Corinthian Yacht Club (SCYC). The candidate will be an integral part of a high-performing team for one of the most prominent sailing and boating clubs in the world.
The GM/COO role at SCYC is one best suited to a leader who genuinely enjoys being the ‘face’ of the Club, being highly engaged, visible and interactive with member families, and epitomizes the “selfless leader” so appropriate to a high performing hospitality environment. This is an opportunity for a qualified manager to make a long term ‘home,’ being appreciated for providing competent, committed and engaged leadership.
HISTORY OF SEAWANHAKA CORINTHIAN YACHT CLUB The Seawanhaka Corinthian Yacht Club, founded in 1871 aboard the sloop Glance off Centre Island, Oyster Bay, is one of America’s oldest yacht clubs. Named after a Native American tribe and dedicated to amateur (“Corinthian”) seamanship, it pioneered the influential Seawanhaka Rule in the 1880s, added “Corinthian” to its name in 1881, and built its iconic clubhouse on Centre Island in 1892 (now on the National Register of Historic Places). In 1895 it established the Seawanhaka Cup, the oldest continuously contested original U.S. yachting trophy, and has since remained a powerhouse in competitive sailing, team racing, and junior programs while preserving its exclusive, member-driven tradition.
Seawanhaka Corinthian Yacht Club operates year-round. Amenities at this private, member-owned, multi-generational club include a beautifully-maintained historic Clubhouse; a mooring field for member- and club-owned boats; hoists, boat yard, four docks and other marine facilities; two Har-Tru tennis and two Bocce courts, beautiful dining venues with stunning waterfront views, private event space for summer dining and parties; adult sailing programs; a Junior Clubhouse; junior sailing program, 8 overnight guest rooms (2 suites), 8 staff rooms in the main Clubhouse; and a vibrant social and racing calendar.
SEAWANHAKA CORINTHIAN YACHT CLUB BY THE NUMBERS
Approximately $6.5M Gross volume
Approximately $1.3M Food and Beverage
Approximately $2.09M Annual Dues
MISSION STATEMENT The business and object of the Club is to encourage its members to become proficient in the personal management, control and handling of their yachts in every condition, including matters pertaining to navigation, seamanship, cruising, competitive sailing and race management.
GENERAL MANAGER/CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER POSITION OVERVIEW The GM/COO will direct all day-to-day operations of Seawanhaka Corinthian Yacht Club. The new GM/COO will be a highly visible, hands‑on leader who can work collaboratively with team members to manage all aspects of club functions. The GM/COO is responsible for delivering outstanding service and memorable experiences to the multi-generational membership and their guests.
Reporting to the Commodore, the GM/COO leads the organization in accomplishing its mission of being a vibrant, member-driven, multi-generational yacht club providing all members with extraordinary experiences and legendary services. The position conveys the SCYC values in a manner that is well understood, widely supported, consistently and effectively implemented.
The GM/COO supervises the following positions: Bookkeeper/HR Manager, Controller, Boatyard Manager, Waterfront/Dockmaster, Food & Beverage Manager, Director Membership, Sailing Director, Dining Room Manager, Executive Chef and Buildings & Grounds.
Key Attributes
Proposes appropriate annual and longer-term financial objectives and manages operations to consistently achieve these goals. Is responsible for achieving operating and financial results consistent with board-approved goals and objectives.
A highly visible, engaging and outgoing club leader who enjoys daily interaction with club members, guests and staff.
Possesses a deep understanding and track record of success managing high quality, food and beverage operations; has sustainably grown revenue and trained/developed/retrained best-in-class front of house teams.
A verifiable motivator and leader who can bring out the best in others by setting clear goals and expectations, holding them accountable for outcomes, by providing consistent feedback and support.
Being naturally outgoing, conversant, respectful, and diplomatic, but able to diplomatically say “no” when appropriate.
An organizationally focused individual who recognizes that obsession with details and consistency of delivery at an extremely high-level results in member and associate satisfaction. Keen understanding of quality in all aspects of the club and club operations as well as demonstrable success in leading clubs to continued relevancy and successfully managing evolving membership demographics.
Fosters cordial and respectful relations with members, while at the same time ensuring that SCYC Policies and By‑laws are consistently applied by staff and followed by members and guests.
Maintains exceptional member relations and delivers outstanding membership experiences and satisfaction by creating a quality environment through staffing, programming, operations, and maintenance. Drives creation of a membership experience that retains existing members and leads to new member growth.
Is committed to making SCYC a vibrant, member-driven club and promotes an existing positive and respectful relationship between members and SCYC staff.
Works closely through and with the Flag Officers and Committee Chairs to keep the Board of Directors informed on all important aspects of SCYC operations. Is effective at taking the lead in pressing for actionable decisions.
Helps in the development of the long-term strategy and stays abreast of industry trends and challenges. Proposes annual objectives and plans that meet the needs of members, employees, and other stakeholders; ensures consistent and timely progress toward strategic objectives.
An individual who embodies Honesty, Integrity and Loyalty to the Seawanhaka Corinthian Yacht Club members and staff.
EMPHASIZED KEY CHARACTERISTICS
Recognizing the need for the continuation of an “employer of choice” approach to attracting, retaining, and developing staff at every level within the greater SCYC organization.
Possess a strong financial acumen for hospitality trends and metrics, and able to fully comprehend and explain P/Ls, balance sheets, cash flow and operating, capital and project management budgets.
Outstanding communication skills are necessary for this role and to be successful at SCYC. As the primary communicator of much of the information at the Club, proven outstanding verbal and written skills are critical. As is a keen ability to “listen,” “engage,” “build trust” and “be highly approachable.”
Must be a leader who “leads by example” with a nurturing, respectful, mentoring style of leadership with staff, carrying themselves to a standard other staff want to emulate.
A “hands on” leader who recognizes the balance between leading, doing and delegating.
Must be vision and mission oriented; anticipating how the Club continues to evolve is important, as is being actively ‘networked’ in the industry to the point of being on the forefront of trends in clubs.
A visible, sincerely engaged and hard‑working leader that brings ideas to the table and can express those ideas thoughtfully and easily to team members, the Flag, Board, Members and active Committees.
Being strategic in focus and able to gain support and execute approved plans and directions, sometimes encouraging the Board to make actionable decisions, albeit it with a strong and natural ability to analyze and communicate the reasons behind recommendations.
INITIAL PRIORITIES OF THE GENERAL MANAGER/CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
Review the overall F & B operation, COG’s, labor costs, consistency of execution, and overall standards for success.
In collaboration with the Flag Officers, Committee Chairs, Board, Members and staff, ensuring that the overall financials, reports, and processes are in place and followed.
Work diligently to develop the trust and confidence of key contributors by being thoughtful, candid, proactive, available, approachable and by listening and respectfully responding.
Continuing employee engagement, primarily by being exceptionally proactive in engagement throughout the operation, learning names, spending time to know and understand the team members, learning the procedures and ebb and flow of business.
Evaluate the overall member service experience and how it dovetails with employee performance, the accountabilities and responsibilities of key departmental leaders and further the plan for continuous improvement.
DESIRED CANDIDATE QUALIFICATIONS
A minimum of 5 - 7 years of progressive leadership/management experience in (preferably) a private member-owned club, or leading hospitality operations outside of the club industry in a similar hospitality operation.
Strong personal qualities of confidence, credibility, energy, commitment, and humor along with exemplary ethics of honesty, integrity and loyalty.
Technologically proficient and recognizing best practices use of technology to improve ‘high touch’ service delivery to members, as well as to more effectively manage and lead operations.
Someone who respects the history, traditions and culture of the Club, while also being an innovator and a champion of new ideas and initiatives, looking to consistent improvement of member experiences and operational efficiency.
A truly confident, diplomatic, and competent club industry professional with exceptional “executive presence,” who recognizes the importance of accountability, and who has a strong history of success in working with member boards and committees.
As noted above, a true “partner” with the Flag Officers, Board, Members and all active Committees, recognizing that he/she needs to be a creative problem solver whose ability to convey ideas, suggestions, and solutions in a thoughtful, well‑reasoned manner with a high level of integrity results in high levels of respect.
Yacht club and marina experience preferred but not required.
EDUCATIONAL AND CERTIFICATION QUALIFICATIONS
A bachelor’s degree from a four-year university or college, preferably in Hospitality Management is preferred.
In lieu of the degree, substantial private club or hospitality experience will be fairly considered.
From the club industry, Certified Club Manager (CCM) designation is desired, but not required. If without such designation, a commitment to ongoing and lifelong learning and strong networking capabilities is critical. If outside of the traditional CMAA background, having verifiable professional development that clearly provides confidence in one’s ability to lead a club and hospitality operation like SCYC.
EMPLOYMENT ELIGIBILITY VERIFICATION In compliance with federal law, all hired employees must verify their identity and eligibility to work in the United States and complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.
SALARY AND BENEFITS Salary is open and commensurate with qualifications and experience and befitting a club of the size and scope of the Seawanhaka Corinthian Yacht Club. Salary Range: $225,000 - $275,000
INSTRUCTIONS ON HOW TO APPLY Please upload your resume and cover letter, in that order, using the link below. When prompted for them during the online application process, you should have your documents fully prepared to attach. Please be sure your image is not on your resume or cover letter; it should be used on your LinkedIn Profile.
Prepare a thoughtful cover letter addressed to Seawanhaka Corinthian Yacht Club search committee/Mr. Julian Fisher, Commodore and clearly articulate your alignment with this role and why you want to be considered for this position at this stage of your career and why SCYC and the Centre Island area will be beneficial to you, your family, your career, and the Club if selected.
You must apply for this role as soon as possible but no later than February 20, 2026. Candidate selections will occur early March with first Interviews expected in mid-March 2026 and second interviews a short time later. The new candidate should assume as soon as reasonable notice is given to a current employer following selection.
IMPORTANT:
Save your resume and letter in the following manner:
(These documents should be in Word or PDF format)
Note: Once you complete the application process for this search, you are not able to go back in and add additional documents.
Click here to upload your resume and cover letter.
If you have any questions, please email Holly Weiss: holly@kkandw.com
#J-18808-Ljbffr
GENERAL MANAGER/CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER OPPORTUNITY AT SEAWANHAKA CORINTHIAN YACHT CLUB An amazing opportunity exists for candidates with a successful track record of leadership and high-quality operations management at experience-centric club operations. We are conducting the General Manager/Chief Operating Officer (GM/COO) search for the historic Seawanhaka Corinthian Yacht Club (SCYC). The candidate will be an integral part of a high-performing team for one of the most prominent sailing and boating clubs in the world.
The GM/COO role at SCYC is one best suited to a leader who genuinely enjoys being the ‘face’ of the Club, being highly engaged, visible and interactive with member families, and epitomizes the “selfless leader” so appropriate to a high performing hospitality environment. This is an opportunity for a qualified manager to make a long term ‘home,’ being appreciated for providing competent, committed and engaged leadership.
HISTORY OF SEAWANHAKA CORINTHIAN YACHT CLUB The Seawanhaka Corinthian Yacht Club, founded in 1871 aboard the sloop Glance off Centre Island, Oyster Bay, is one of America’s oldest yacht clubs. Named after a Native American tribe and dedicated to amateur (“Corinthian”) seamanship, it pioneered the influential Seawanhaka Rule in the 1880s, added “Corinthian” to its name in 1881, and built its iconic clubhouse on Centre Island in 1892 (now on the National Register of Historic Places). In 1895 it established the Seawanhaka Cup, the oldest continuously contested original U.S. yachting trophy, and has since remained a powerhouse in competitive sailing, team racing, and junior programs while preserving its exclusive, member-driven tradition.
Seawanhaka Corinthian Yacht Club operates year-round. Amenities at this private, member-owned, multi-generational club include a beautifully-maintained historic Clubhouse; a mooring field for member- and club-owned boats; hoists, boat yard, four docks and other marine facilities; two Har-Tru tennis and two Bocce courts, beautiful dining venues with stunning waterfront views, private event space for summer dining and parties; adult sailing programs; a Junior Clubhouse; junior sailing program, 8 overnight guest rooms (2 suites), 8 staff rooms in the main Clubhouse; and a vibrant social and racing calendar.
SEAWANHAKA CORINTHIAN YACHT CLUB BY THE NUMBERS
Approximately $6.5M Gross volume
Approximately $1.3M Food and Beverage
Approximately $2.09M Annual Dues
MISSION STATEMENT The business and object of the Club is to encourage its members to become proficient in the personal management, control and handling of their yachts in every condition, including matters pertaining to navigation, seamanship, cruising, competitive sailing and race management.
GENERAL MANAGER/CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER POSITION OVERVIEW The GM/COO will direct all day-to-day operations of Seawanhaka Corinthian Yacht Club. The new GM/COO will be a highly visible, hands‑on leader who can work collaboratively with team members to manage all aspects of club functions. The GM/COO is responsible for delivering outstanding service and memorable experiences to the multi-generational membership and their guests.
Reporting to the Commodore, the GM/COO leads the organization in accomplishing its mission of being a vibrant, member-driven, multi-generational yacht club providing all members with extraordinary experiences and legendary services. The position conveys the SCYC values in a manner that is well understood, widely supported, consistently and effectively implemented.
The GM/COO supervises the following positions: Bookkeeper/HR Manager, Controller, Boatyard Manager, Waterfront/Dockmaster, Food & Beverage Manager, Director Membership, Sailing Director, Dining Room Manager, Executive Chef and Buildings & Grounds.
Key Attributes
Proposes appropriate annual and longer-term financial objectives and manages operations to consistently achieve these goals. Is responsible for achieving operating and financial results consistent with board-approved goals and objectives.
A highly visible, engaging and outgoing club leader who enjoys daily interaction with club members, guests and staff.
Possesses a deep understanding and track record of success managing high quality, food and beverage operations; has sustainably grown revenue and trained/developed/retrained best-in-class front of house teams.
A verifiable motivator and leader who can bring out the best in others by setting clear goals and expectations, holding them accountable for outcomes, by providing consistent feedback and support.
Being naturally outgoing, conversant, respectful, and diplomatic, but able to diplomatically say “no” when appropriate.
An organizationally focused individual who recognizes that obsession with details and consistency of delivery at an extremely high-level results in member and associate satisfaction. Keen understanding of quality in all aspects of the club and club operations as well as demonstrable success in leading clubs to continued relevancy and successfully managing evolving membership demographics.
Fosters cordial and respectful relations with members, while at the same time ensuring that SCYC Policies and By‑laws are consistently applied by staff and followed by members and guests.
Maintains exceptional member relations and delivers outstanding membership experiences and satisfaction by creating a quality environment through staffing, programming, operations, and maintenance. Drives creation of a membership experience that retains existing members and leads to new member growth.
Is committed to making SCYC a vibrant, member-driven club and promotes an existing positive and respectful relationship between members and SCYC staff.
Works closely through and with the Flag Officers and Committee Chairs to keep the Board of Directors informed on all important aspects of SCYC operations. Is effective at taking the lead in pressing for actionable decisions.
Helps in the development of the long-term strategy and stays abreast of industry trends and challenges. Proposes annual objectives and plans that meet the needs of members, employees, and other stakeholders; ensures consistent and timely progress toward strategic objectives.
An individual who embodies Honesty, Integrity and Loyalty to the Seawanhaka Corinthian Yacht Club members and staff.
EMPHASIZED KEY CHARACTERISTICS
Recognizing the need for the continuation of an “employer of choice” approach to attracting, retaining, and developing staff at every level within the greater SCYC organization.
Possess a strong financial acumen for hospitality trends and metrics, and able to fully comprehend and explain P/Ls, balance sheets, cash flow and operating, capital and project management budgets.
Outstanding communication skills are necessary for this role and to be successful at SCYC. As the primary communicator of much of the information at the Club, proven outstanding verbal and written skills are critical. As is a keen ability to “listen,” “engage,” “build trust” and “be highly approachable.”
Must be a leader who “leads by example” with a nurturing, respectful, mentoring style of leadership with staff, carrying themselves to a standard other staff want to emulate.
A “hands on” leader who recognizes the balance between leading, doing and delegating.
Must be vision and mission oriented; anticipating how the Club continues to evolve is important, as is being actively ‘networked’ in the industry to the point of being on the forefront of trends in clubs.
A visible, sincerely engaged and hard‑working leader that brings ideas to the table and can express those ideas thoughtfully and easily to team members, the Flag, Board, Members and active Committees.
Being strategic in focus and able to gain support and execute approved plans and directions, sometimes encouraging the Board to make actionable decisions, albeit it with a strong and natural ability to analyze and communicate the reasons behind recommendations.
INITIAL PRIORITIES OF THE GENERAL MANAGER/CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
Review the overall F & B operation, COG’s, labor costs, consistency of execution, and overall standards for success.
In collaboration with the Flag Officers, Committee Chairs, Board, Members and staff, ensuring that the overall financials, reports, and processes are in place and followed.
Work diligently to develop the trust and confidence of key contributors by being thoughtful, candid, proactive, available, approachable and by listening and respectfully responding.
Continuing employee engagement, primarily by being exceptionally proactive in engagement throughout the operation, learning names, spending time to know and understand the team members, learning the procedures and ebb and flow of business.
Evaluate the overall member service experience and how it dovetails with employee performance, the accountabilities and responsibilities of key departmental leaders and further the plan for continuous improvement.
DESIRED CANDIDATE QUALIFICATIONS
A minimum of 5 - 7 years of progressive leadership/management experience in (preferably) a private member-owned club, or leading hospitality operations outside of the club industry in a similar hospitality operation.
Strong personal qualities of confidence, credibility, energy, commitment, and humor along with exemplary ethics of honesty, integrity and loyalty.
Technologically proficient and recognizing best practices use of technology to improve ‘high touch’ service delivery to members, as well as to more effectively manage and lead operations.
Someone who respects the history, traditions and culture of the Club, while also being an innovator and a champion of new ideas and initiatives, looking to consistent improvement of member experiences and operational efficiency.
A truly confident, diplomatic, and competent club industry professional with exceptional “executive presence,” who recognizes the importance of accountability, and who has a strong history of success in working with member boards and committees.
As noted above, a true “partner” with the Flag Officers, Board, Members and all active Committees, recognizing that he/she needs to be a creative problem solver whose ability to convey ideas, suggestions, and solutions in a thoughtful, well‑reasoned manner with a high level of integrity results in high levels of respect.
Yacht club and marina experience preferred but not required.
EDUCATIONAL AND CERTIFICATION QUALIFICATIONS
A bachelor’s degree from a four-year university or college, preferably in Hospitality Management is preferred.
In lieu of the degree, substantial private club or hospitality experience will be fairly considered.
From the club industry, Certified Club Manager (CCM) designation is desired, but not required. If without such designation, a commitment to ongoing and lifelong learning and strong networking capabilities is critical. If outside of the traditional CMAA background, having verifiable professional development that clearly provides confidence in one’s ability to lead a club and hospitality operation like SCYC.
EMPLOYMENT ELIGIBILITY VERIFICATION In compliance with federal law, all hired employees must verify their identity and eligibility to work in the United States and complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.
SALARY AND BENEFITS Salary is open and commensurate with qualifications and experience and befitting a club of the size and scope of the Seawanhaka Corinthian Yacht Club. Salary Range: $225,000 - $275,000
INSTRUCTIONS ON HOW TO APPLY Please upload your resume and cover letter, in that order, using the link below. When prompted for them during the online application process, you should have your documents fully prepared to attach. Please be sure your image is not on your resume or cover letter; it should be used on your LinkedIn Profile.
Prepare a thoughtful cover letter addressed to Seawanhaka Corinthian Yacht Club search committee/Mr. Julian Fisher, Commodore and clearly articulate your alignment with this role and why you want to be considered for this position at this stage of your career and why SCYC and the Centre Island area will be beneficial to you, your family, your career, and the Club if selected.
You must apply for this role as soon as possible but no later than February 20, 2026. Candidate selections will occur early March with first Interviews expected in mid-March 2026 and second interviews a short time later. The new candidate should assume as soon as reasonable notice is given to a current employer following selection.
IMPORTANT:
Save your resume and letter in the following manner:
(These documents should be in Word or PDF format)
Note: Once you complete the application process for this search, you are not able to go back in and add additional documents.
Click here to upload your resume and cover letter.
If you have any questions, please email Holly Weiss: holly@kkandw.com
#J-18808-Ljbffr