The Wednesday Match Play Podcast, brought to you by Eden Mill St Andrews · Golf Radio Network

Derek White, PGA, Desert Willow Golf Resort | Episode No. 494

·44 min·2 clips

CPA turned PGA professional: Derek passed the PAT on first try with a three-under round at golf academy reunion.

Derek White, 20-year general manager at Desert Willow Golf Resort, discusses managing public 36-hole facility in Palm Desert. Covers operational metrics (150+ daily rounds, 60-day sold-out booking window), dynamic pricing implementation, loyalty program tiers (Platinum, Champions Club, Summer VIP), architectural philosophy (Firecliff championship-focused, Mountain View more resort-style), executive chef approach (Michelin-star standards, scratch-made sauces/desserts), golf academy programming (PGA professionals, junior league, Get Golf Ready), and career path (CPA to golf industry via Golf Academy of Arizona). Addresses revenue management, community engagement, technological integration (mobile app GPS), seasonal operations, and staff development including PGA professional internships and match play competitions.

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