David
Smith
David V. Smith
President, Club Leaders Forum
From professional golfer to international club development authority, David V. Smith’s distinguished career exemplifies vision, adaptability, and leadership in the private club industry. Mr. Smith began his professional journey on the fairways in the 1970s, later transitioning to club management at the esteemed Bel Air Country Club in the early 1980s. His passion for elevating member experience soon led him beyond club operations to roles in collegiate coaching and, ultimately, elite club development.
A pivotal moment in Mr. Smith’s career came through his collaboration with David Murdoch, Chairman of Dole, where he played a critical role in developing premier private clubs including Sherwood Country Club in California and other landmark properties in Hawaii. His acumen in conceptualizing and delivering high-caliber club environments gained international attention.
In the 1990s, a consequential meeting with Jay Lee, grandson of Samsung’s founder, took Mr. Smith to Jeju Island, South Korea, to lead the creation of Nine Bridges Golf Club. Under his stewardship, the course achieved its ambitious goal of entering the World’s Top 100 by 2004. The success of Nine Bridges sparked a broader vision—one that redefined global standards for private clubs.
Recognizing the absence of international benchmarks, Mr. Smith conceived and launched the Platinum Clubs of the World, inspired by the established Platinum Clubs of America. In partnership with John Sibold and later under the stewardship of Club Leaders Forum, Mr. Smith acquired the program in 2010, ensuring its continued prestige and expansion on the global stage.
Today, Mr. Smith serves as President of Club Leaders Forum, where his leadership has propelled the organization to the forefront of industry consulting, education, and recognition. Over the past 35 years, he and his team have successfully developed more than 75 golf courses across 27 countries. His work is characterized by a steadfast commitment to excellence and an unwavering dedication to advancing the member experience.
Mr. Smith’s legacy lies not only in the courses and clubs he has helped build, but also in the elevated standards he has championed throughout the world of private clubs. His story is one of bold vision, strategic execution, and enduring influence.