General Manager

Position Overview

The Athelstan Club, a distinguished 153-year-old private gentlemen’s club in the heart of downtown Mobile, seeks an accomplished and forward-thinking General Manager to lead the Club into its next chapter.

With approximately 600 members, the Club offers a unique blend of tradition and modern amenities, including formal and casual dining, a robust catering and banquet operation, a vibrant social calendar, a health club and gymnasium, and a recently introduced wine bar. The Club serves as a central gathering place for fellowship, business, and celebration—most notably during the Mardi Gras season, when operations extend around the clock for several weeks.

The current General Manager is retiring after 15 years of dedicated service, creating a unique leadership transition opportunity.

The General Manager serves as Chief Operating Officer, reporting to the Board of Governors, and is responsible for preserving the Club’s traditions while elevating the member experience, operational excellence, and long-term financial strength.

Key Responsibilities

 

• Provide visible, hands-on leadership across all Club operations, fostering a culture of service excellence, accountability, and professionalismOversee all day-to-day operations, including dining, events, catering, and member services
• Uphold and enhance a highly personalized, first-class member experience
• Maintain a consistent presence throughout the Club and serve as a liaison to the Board and committees
• Lead and develop a high-performing team through recruitment, training, and clear performance expectations
• Oversee all food and beverage operations, ensuring consistency in quality, service, and presentation across all outlets
• Drive programming and engagement through events, wine dinners, and Club traditions
• Grow and elevate the Club’s catering and private event business
• Develop and manage operating and capital budgets, ensuring strong financial controls and long-term sustainability
• Oversee facilities, maintenance, and compliance with all health, safety, and regulatory requirements
• Effectively manage peak operational periods, including extended operations during Mardi Gras
  
  

Qualifications

 

• Proven leadership experience in a private club, hospitality, or comparable high-service environment
• Strong food and beverage expertise, including multi-outlet and event-driven operations
• Demonstrated success in financial management, budgeting, and operational controls
• Experience leading teams in high-volume, high-expectation environments
• Ability to implement systems, processes, and training programs that drive consistency and excellence
  
  

Personal Attributes

 

• A natural host with a genuine passion for hospitality
• Visible, approachable, and engaged leadership style
• Poised, professional, and highly discreet
• Detail-oriented with a commitment to excellence
• Creative and forward-thinking, with respect for tradition
• Calm under pressure and an effective communicator

Opportunity

This is a rare opportunity to lead one of Mobile’s most historic and respected institutions. The successful candidate will play a central role in shaping the future of The Athelstan Club while honoring the traditions that define it.

Interviews are expected to commence within approximately 45–60 days to allow for a thoughtful and deliberate search process. Compensation will be competitive and commensurate with experience.

How to Apply

Interested candidates are invited to submit a thoughtful and well-prepared application for consideration.

Applicants should prepare a cover letter addressed to Mr. André Rathlé, Search Committee Chair, clearly articulating:

• Their alignment with the responsibilities and expectations of the role
• Why they are seeking this opportunity at this stage of their career
• How The Athelstan Club will benefit them personally and professionally
• The value they believe they will bring to the Club and its membership

All application materials should be submitted via email to View email address on click.appcast.io.
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