Episode 107
107 | Growing Leaders
with Connor Healy
In this episode of Leadership on the Links, Tyler Bloom is joined by Connor Healy, Superintendent at Conway Farms Golf Club in Lake Forest, Illinois, one of the premier private clubs on the North Shore of Chicago. Connor traces his career from an early start caddying at Ravisloe Country Club to working alongside respected industry mentors at Old Elm and Olympia Fields, before establishing a long-tenured career at Conway Farms. He also discusses his decision to pursue an MBA at DePaul University while serving as sole assistant through a major course renovation, a commitment that broadened his perspective on club leadership and helped position him for the superintendent role. This is a thoughtful conversation about professional development, team building, and what it means to lead with intention at a high-caliber private club.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
- How foundational experiences under respected mentors at Old Elm, Bel Air, and Olympia Fields shaped Connor’s approach to the profession.
- Why pursuing an MBA while managing a course renovation demonstrated a level of commitment that resonated with club leadership.
- The value of cross-departmental relationships with the director of golf and COO in building the trust and credibility necessary for an internal promotion.
- How meaningful exposure to members, board meetings, and club committees distinguished Connor as a prepared and capable successor.
- Connor’s approach to staff development: assessing individual goals, building on existing strengths, and supporting team members in finding the right opportunities for their growth.
- Why consistent, ongoing feedback and open communication are central to preparing assistant superintendents for the responsibilities of club leadership.
- A measured perspective on work-life balance and how thoughtful scheduling and clear expectations contribute to a more sustainable and professional work environment.
- Connor’s involvement with the Super Scratch Foundation and his commitment to supporting the next generation of golf course management professionals.
Links and Resources
- Connor Healy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connor-healy-2982a021/
- Conway Farms Golf Club: https://www.conwayfarmsgolfclub.org/
- Super Scratch Foundation: https://www.superscratchfoundation.org/
- Bloom Golf Partners: https://bloomgolfpartners.com/
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Who is Tyler Bloom?
Tyler Bloom is the leading expert on workforce development in the golf and turfgrass industry. He has worked with dozens of leading golf and sports companies in the United States including The PGA of America, Top 100 golf courses, public, municipal to professional sports teams, universities, and national historic landmarks.