Jason McCarty splits time as director of golf at Sebonack Golf Club in Southampton, N.Y., and Cabot Saint Lucia, a Coore and Crenshaw-designed course that will open in 2022 in the eastern Caribbean. McCarty, of New Zealand, identifies his keys to leadership and the challenges created by the ongoing pandemic.

The First Call: In one sentence, describe what you do for a living.
Jason McCarty: I aim to create an environment in which our members can enjoy the game of golf and all the positive social experiences that come with being part of a private club.

TFC: What time do you wake in the morning, and what time do you typically start the workday?
JM: I wake up at 5:45 a.m. and am typically on property between 7 and 7:30 a.m.

TFC: What are key elements to leadership or to being a good leader? 
JM: The key elements of leadership that I try to embody are; Leading by example, radiating positive energy, having a proactive attitude and striving to recognize and develop talent in every area of the operation.

TFC: What's the secret to your success?
JM: I’m not sure it is really a secret. I see my success as a result of my unwavering passion for personal and professional development combined with the meaningful relationships I have established with our members.

TFC: What’s the last book you read?
JM: I recently reread "Multipliers" by Liz Wiseman. I love this book, as it identifies how some leaders are clearly skilled to develop their team members, while others lead in a way that is detrimental to the output and growth of their organization. Most importantly, it provided me with a clear road map to evaluate my own leadership patterns.

TFC: What is your greatest extravagance?
JM: I think my greatest extravagance is my pursuit of continued personal and professional development. Whether that’s seeking out new courses to play, new coaching technology or meeting with the best industry leaders, I strive for continuous personal and professional improvement.

TFC: What was your path to the golf industry?
JM: I was introduced to the game of golf by a family friend at the age of 11 and, soon after that, I developed a great friendship with the golf pro at our small local course in Bay of Islands, New Zealand. He mentored me and was instrumental in developing my love for the game. My first job in golf came a number of years later, at Remuera Golf Club under John Croskery.