Global Internship Initiative Tackles Staffing Challenges

Leading Clubs Adopt Global Internship Initiative to Tackle Staffing Challenges and Build Future Leaders – as registrations opens for 2027 intake.

Leading golf clubs across the globe are turning to the 59club Academy Global Internship Initiative to address one of the industry’s biggest long-term challenges: seasonal staffing shortages and the development of future management talent.

Launched by 59club in partnership with Global Talent Solutions, the programme combines international placements, operational training, leadership development and industry certifications to create a sustainable talent pipeline for golf and hospitality venues worldwide.

The initiative has already attracted a strong first cohort, with 18 young professionals now enrolled within Golf Operations departments at: The Belfry Hotel & Resort; The Dutch; Foxhills Club & Resort; The Hawthorn by Galway Bay; Royal Dornoch Golf Club; Saadiyat Beach Golf Club; Yas Acres Golf & Country Club and Yas Links.

Following the successful launch across the UK & Ireland, Europe and the Middle East, 59club and Global Talent Solutions open registrations for the 2027 intake with additional clubs already committed – as demand for the programme continues to grow.

Designed around a three-year rotational structure, the initiative enables interns to complete six international placements across “Home Club” and “Away Club” environments, allowing participating venues to benefit from both returning team members familiar with club operations, and new international talent bringing fresh perspectives and best practice ideas.

Alongside practical experience, interns complete a structured education pathway including 59club Service Excellence training, operational certifications and bespoke leadership development delivered by Robincroft Consultancy.

Additional educational support is provided through partnerships with The PGA, and the League Managers Association, giving participants access to professional development seminars, webinars and leadership content throughout the programme.

"The Dutch are delighted to be involved with 59club and Global Talent Solutions in the sourcing, recruitment and training of candidates in this fantastic new three-year internship programme. This has already had, and will continue to have, a very positive effect on the supply of our current and future staffing requirements. A wonderful initiative for the golf industry."

Phil Helsby

Managing Director, The Dutch

For participating clubs, the programme is designed to reduce recruitment pressures while creating a longer-term succession planning model for future management positions. Global Talent Solutions manages sourcing, screening, interviews and onboarding support, enabling club leadership teams to focus on internal operations while accessing pre-qualified, culturally aligned talent.

“Robincroft is proud to deliver the leadership pillar for the 59club Academy’s inaugural cohort of the Global Internship Initiative. We are contributing to the development of leaders who will shape the future of the industry.”

Andy Siddall

Co-Founder, Robincroft Consultancy

For young professionals entering the industry, the programme offers international experience, hands-on operational responsibility and direct exposure to world-class venues across golf and hospitality.

“This programme has given me a clear pathway into world-class venues and future management opportunities within golf, while helping me build international experience, leadership skills and a global network.”

Flynn O'Callaghan

'Home Intern', Royal Dornoch Golf Club

Applications for the 2027 intake are now officially open, with expansion plans already underway across Golf Operations, Agronomy, Food & Beverage and Leisure specialisms.

Clubs and Graduates interested in joining the programme are encouraged to register early due to limited availability.

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