Karen Harmon

Gator Director

Karen Harmon is an experienced General Manager and Chief Operating Officer with over 35 years of leadership in the private club industry, specializing in strategic direction and operational excellence.

Raised on the coast of Maine, Karen developed a lifelong appreciation for coastal communities and the lifestyle they embody. Her career began at Ocean Reef Club in Key Largo, where she played a pivotal role in developing the catering department and later served as Director of Sales & Marketing during her 17-year tenure. Ocean Reef holds special significance for Karen, as it is where her two sons were born and raised.

Following her time at Ocean Reef, Karen served as Director of Event Management and Executive Committee Member at Doral Golf Resort & Spa. There, she oversaw convention services and managed the execution of the PGA Tournament at the famed Blue Monster course for five years.

Karen accepted her first General Manager/COO position at The Surf Club in North Miami Beach, where she led the club’s Historic Designation Initiative and managed a full-scale renovation. She later became GM/COO of Deering Bay Yacht & Country Club, where she oversaw the renovation of the Arnold Palmer Signature Golf Course and organized numerous charity golf and tennis tournaments.

Currently, Karen serves as General Manager/COO of Sarasota Yacht Club. Under her leadership, the club has achieved Distinguished Elite recognition and earned multiple industry accolades, including Platinum Club of America and Platinum Club of the World honors.

Karen has been married to her husband, Ernie, for 33 years, and they now proudly call Sarasota home.