Champion Hills Names Nick Auten Head Golf Professional

(HENDERSONVILLE, N.C.) — Champion Hills Club has announced the hiring of Nick Auten as its new Head Golf Professional, bringing more than 25 years of experience at some of the country’s most respected golf clubs to the private Tom Fazio–designed community.

Nick Auten

Auten joins Champion Hills after most recently serving as Director of Golf at Lake Hickory Country Club, where he led golf operations and member programming for the past two years. Prior to that, he spent nine years as Head Golf Professional at East Lake Golf Club in Atlanta, home of the season-ending PGA Tour Championship.

A North Carolina native widely regarded as a relationship-driven leader, Auten is known for building strong connections with members, mentoring staff, fostering collaboration, and delivering high-quality golf experiences. His leadership style and operational background align closely with Champion Hills’ commitment to service, excellence, and a premier member experience.

“To come back to the mountains of North Carolina and join a club like Champion Hills - one I’ve admired for years - is a tremendous opportunity, and I’m excited to help elevate the membership experience,” Auten said. 

Champion Hills partnered with Troon, the world’s leading golf management company, during the search process. Troon assisted with candidate evaluation and industry insight, helping ensure a strong alignment between the club’s culture and leadership experience.

Auten steps into his role as Champion Hills – home to one of America’s top 50 residential courses - continues to build on its reputation as one of the premier private golf clubs in the nation.

For more information or to schedule a tour, visit www.ChampionHills.com or call (828) 696-1962.