PURPOSE
Create and Inspire Genuine Lifetime Experiences.
MISSION STATEMENT
We create and inspire genuine hospitality experiences. We take a humble approach, aiming to be admired and respected by our guests, members, and the community. Our team of caring employees take a sense of ownership over everything that we do and are empowered to innovate, by inspiring new ways to invest in our people and in our facilities to exceed guests’ expectations.
Our team Members
ROB STAFFEN | CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Rob Staffen is an entrepreneur, avid golfer, and the Chairman of the Board at the St. Marys Golf & Country Club. He purchased the golf course in 1993, alongside three other local families, to save and develop it for the St. Marys community and future generations. His leadership has transformed the Club into a thriving hub for golf enthusiasts while preserving and enhancing its natural beauty. Rob's philanthropic endeavours extend beyond the course, supporting local charities and environmental conservation. He continues to guide the Club towards a bright and sustainable future, leaving a lasting impact on St. Marys.
MATT STAFFEN | PARTNER, PRESIDENT & GENERAL MANAGER
Matt is committed to delivering genuine golf, dining, special events, and accommodations experiences. He has been instrumental in shaping the company’s four distinct brands—including the St. Marys Golf & Country Club, St. Marys Weddings, Social Thirty-One, and The Penrose Suites—and believes that premium experiences start with outstanding facilities and a passionate, dedicated team. Together with his wife Ashton, Brand & Marketing Specialist, they have grown the team from 20 to over 100, with a continued focus on sustainable growth and delivering a true end-to-end hospitality experience. A graduate of the Ivey Business School, Matt holds both an Honours Business Administration (HBA) and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree. He first joined the Club as Director of Operations and now serves as President and General Manager.
BRANDON DE GROOTE | PARTNER, DIRECTOR OF GOLF & PROPERTY OPERATIONS
Having grown up in St. Marys, the St. Marys Golf & Country Club was Brandon’s home course throughout his childhood. After returning from Vancouver, BC, it felt full circle when he rejoined the Club in a leadership capacity. Brandon brings a deep passion for authentic hospitality, with a focus on property management, golf, and accommodations—creating memorable experiences for members, guests, and the broader community. His commitment lies in cultivating genuine, lifelong moments for all who visit the Golf Club and The Penrose Suites.
ASHTON STAFFEN | PARTNER, DIRECTOR OF BRANDING & MARKETING
While earning her degrees in Psychology and Sociology at Wilfrid Laurier University, Ashton developed a deep understanding of personal relations and the needs of others. Her flair for creativity led her to post-graduate studies in Event Management, where her passion for wedding planning took root. Since joining us in 2014, Ashton has been instrumental in shaping our reputation as one of Southwestern Ontario’s top wedding venues—leading event sales and execution, enhancing our online presence, and guiding the property's design transformation. Now, as our Brand & Marketing Specialist, she’s focused on elevating the creative direction of all four brands, ensuring genuine lifetime experiences are translated from the digital to the physical for all guests of St. Marys Golf, Social Thirty-One, The Penrose Suites, and St. Marys Weddings.
CAMERON CHARLTON | HEAD SUPERINTENDENT
Cameron is a Seneca College graduate and seasoned turf management professional, with a deep passion for the game of golf. He began his career in residential turf and landscaping before transitioning into the golf industry, aligning his professional skills with his love for the sport. Over the past seven seasons at Glencairn Golf Club, he served as Assistant Superintendent, helping to deliver exceptional playing conditions for a membership of over 650 golfers. Now stepping into the role of Head Superintendent at St. Marys Golf, Cameron brings a forward-thinking approach to course management, grounded in agronomic expertise and a golfer’s perspective. He is committed to enhancing course conditions and delivering an outstanding experience for every player—from competitive athletes to weekend enthusiasts.
REBECCA PARSONS | GOLF OPERATIONS MANAGER
Rebecca has been a dedicated employee of St. Marys Golf & Country Club since 2007, working in different roles. She has a Bachelor's degree in Environmental Studies from York University and brings a positive attitude and excellent attention to detail to the golf operations departments. She loves being part of the golf community and providing excellent customer service. Rebecca values the friendly atmosphere at the family-run business and enjoys getting to know members and regulars.
KELLEN FIFIELD | GOLF COACH & ASSISTANT SUPERVISOR
Kellen's love for golf began at a young age when he started working as a ball boy. He has been with the Club for over 20 years and graduated from Niagara College's Professional Golf Management program. Kellen is passionate about developing junior golfers and instilling in them proper golf etiquette that they can carry with them throughout their lives. He aims to help golfers of all backgrounds and skill levels improve their confidence and lower their scores.
JULIAN BANSIE | EXECUTIVE CHEF, DIRECTOR OF FOOD & BEVERAGE
Chef Julian's love for cooking began at a young age and led him to graduate with Honours in Culinary Management from George Brown College. He gained professional experience at Toronto's Canoe and The Carlu, where he hosted high-profile celebrities. Julian also worked with Oliver & Bonancini to grow their exclusive TIFF venue. Now leading the SMGCC culinary team, Julian's attention to detail and passion for cooking drives him to strive for excellence. He believes in routine and consistency as pillars of a strong culinary team and aims to teach his team something new every day.
HAILEY THOMAS | DIRECTOR OF EVENT SALES & PLANNING
With diplomas in both Business Marketing and Food, Wine & Tourism, along with a decade of hospitality experience spanning Ontario to British Columbia, Hailey brought a wealth of experience when she joined our team in 2020. Her positive demeanour, passion for customer service, and ability to communicate sincerely and effectively with others all lend to meaningful connections with our couples, and her unmistakable attention to detail ensures weddings are planned to perfection.
MARK MCMURRAY | FINANCE MANAGER
Mark graduated from Carleton University's Sprott School of Business with a Bachelor of Commerce and has been with the Staffen family's business since 2016. As the Director of Finance & Administration, Mark supports the team and instills the organization's vision and core values. He was a leading force in the development of the Club's restaurant, Social Thirty-One, and enjoys supporting all teams in achieving their financial and people-related goals. "It is a wonderful feeling to be a part of the dynamic team that is entrusted with providing genuine lifetime experiences to our members, guests, and clients."
KELSEA SCHAEFER | HUMAN RESOURCES GENERALIST
Kelsea is a strategic Human Resources professional with over six years of experience across diverse industries, including the YMCA of Southwestern Ontario, Pinchin Ltd., and Sysco Canada. Experienced in full-cycle recruitment, employee relations, leadership development, and policy standards & compliance, she excels at tackling complex challenges with practical, creative solutions. Currently completing her CHRL designation and holding certifications in Mental Health First Aid and CPR/First Aid, Kelsea brings expertise and dedication to her role as HR Generalist, fostering an approachable, safe, and supportive environment for all employees to feel valued and empowered in our organization. Outside of work, she loves exploring the outdoors with her dogs, and giving back to the community through mentoring and volunteering.