“We are really committed to better serving our clients,” said Sam Duininck, General Manager of the Southeast for Duininck Golf, a company that specializes in construction and renovation of golf courses throughout the United States. “Building relationships with the customer is big for us.”
It’s not just talk – but a commitment in action when Sam and his wife, Morgan, an estimator for the company, moved their young family recently to Atlanta, Georgia, to serve customers. “I feel like it’s not too uncommon to pack up your family and move for a spouse’s job, but in our case, both Sam and I got to be a part of that…it’s generated a huge sense of mission and purpose not only in our work, but in our family,” said Morgan.
“Most rewarding part has been the community that surrounds us…people that have been involved in all aspects (employees, clients, vendors) have welcomed us to this community as a family. It’s made our mission and purpose much easier when the people we came to serve ended up serving us…such a gift from the Lord to see how He’s provided as we’ve stepped out in faith to set roots somewhere that we knew next to nothing about.”
Sam acknowledges the whole company’s workforce, from leadership to skilled construction workers, deliver on meeting customer’s needs. “Once we get work, we can only get more work and sustain relationships it if we do the work right,” said Sam. Chris Kleinsmith, Director of Contracting, knows that to be true. “We intend for every project to share the same great experience. Management interactions have proven to really be key in serving our customers and delivering great outcomes.” Morgan reinforced that approach by sharing, “From the initial lead, to requesting quotes and final proposal – there are a lot of people involved, yet the estimator can provide a consistent result…a steady voice makes a difference…”
As a long-time employee, Ahren Habicht, General Manager of the Midwest, shared that it’s incredibly rewarding to see the new opportunities for employees resulting from growing to serve the customer. “That – and seeing the talent we’ve been able to attract with our [reputable] brand and goal of being the golf builder employer of choice.”
With an eye on the future – the company has a strong resolve to improve in ways they can. “The growth experience for us will strengthen with great communication and collaboration with the many teams across Duininck Golf, the Construction & Materials sector, and Duininck Companies resources,” said Ahren.
In the end – growing the company through a commitment to a great customer experience has bigger outcomes than just dollars or projects completed well, Chris expressed. “Our growth has allowed us to keep our teams in closer proximity to an area and home for extended periods of time – results in happier employees and stronger teams. Growth allows advancement for all…crucial for retaining outstanding team members and supports the servant leadership model. Seeing others advance into new positions and even growing beyond their own expectations – that’s the reward we’re looking for.”
