Palm Desert, CA – JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa is pleased to announce the appointment of Rolland Vaughn as Golf General Manager. Palm Desert’s largest resort is known for its two 18-hole championship style courses set against the towering backdrop of the Santa Rosa Mountains. Both the Palm and Valley courses were designed by acclaimed architect Ted Robinson, “King of Waterscapes.” Each par-72 golf course is over 6,500 yards, catering to golfers of all levels and the Desert Springs Golf Club offers daily golf clinics, private lessons, group and event packages.  

As an industry veteran, Vaughn brings a wealth of leadership experience in golf operations across premier resort, private club, and Troon-managed properties. Most recently, he served as Head Golf Professional at Marriott’s Shadow Ridge Golf Club in Palm Desert. Prior to that, he held the same role at Desert Island Country Club in Rancho Mirage.

“We are thrilled to welcome Rolland to our leadership team,”. “His experience, passion for the game, and dedication to exceptional service make him a valuable addition to our golf operations.”

Nusrat Mirza, General Manager

His extensive background also includes serving as General Manager at Torreon Golf Club in Show Low, Arizona – a Troon Privé property – as well as nearly six years as General Manager at Shadow Hills Golf Club in Indio. Earlier in his career, Vaughn was Director of Golf at Ak-Chin Southern Dunes Golf Club in Maricopa, Arizona. Throughout his tenure, he has demonstrated a strong commitment to operational excellence, team development, and delivering elevated guest experiences.

Vaughn’s golf expertise is poised to drive ongoing success at JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa. He oversees full P&L responsibility for golf operations, including 36 holes, the practice facility, retail, and food and beverage touchpoints.  Under Vaughn’s guidance, the property continues to enhance its renowned golf offerings and guest experience.

Vaughn holds a Bachelor of Science in Business from Ferris State University, where he specialized in Marketing with a concentration in Professional Golf Management. A Michigan native, Vaughn enjoys spending time with his wife, Alison, their daughter, Sawyer Grace, and their two dogs, Moose Tracks and Bear Paws. In his free time, he enjoys home improvement and landscaping projects and is a devoted fan of Detroit professional sports teams and the University of Michigan.