(SYLVA, N.C.) — Balsam Mountain Preserve, the premier private residential community nestled high in the Blue Ridge Mountains between the charming mountain towns of Sylva and Waynesville, announces the appointment of Riley Case as its new clubhouse manager.
Case brings extensive experience from some of Western North Carolina’s top private clubs. Most recently, he served as the director of food and beverage at Rumbling Bald on Lake Lure, where he oversaw three full-service restaurants, a banquet kitchen and a coffee shop. He assumed this leadership role following Hurricane Helene, demonstrating a strong commitment to operational excellence and community support.
Before Rumbling Bald, Case advanced through every level of food and beverage operations at The Cliffs at Walnut Cove, ultimately leading the entire food and beverage department. He began his hospitality career as a server and bartender at Cummings Cove Golf and Country Club.
A Level One Sommelier through the Court of Master Sommeliers, Case is known for creating standout wine programs, locker programs, wine dinners and creative cocktail experiences. He also reflects an ongoing commitment to professional growth within the private club industry as an active member of the Club Management Association of America (CMAA).
In this newly created senior leadership role, Case will oversee food and beverage, events and member services, delivering a cohesive, elevated hospitality experience for residents and guests.
“I’m thrilled to join Balsam Mountain Preserve and help shape the future of the clubhouse experience,” says Case. “This is a special community with a strong foundation, and I look forward to working closely with the team and members to create warm, memorable moments while maintaining the authentic mountain character that makes Balsam unique.”
“I’ve spent my first six months listening to our members and team, and it became clear we needed dedicated leadership to bring our hospitality operations together,” adds Balsam Mountain Preserve General Manager Gayle Starke. “Riley stood out immediately for his warmth, his ability to build strong teams and his rich understanding of what truly great private club service looks like. He is exactly the right person to help deliver the seamless, elevated experience our members and their guests deserve.”
For more information about Balsam Mountain Preserve, please visit www.balsammountainpreserve.com.
ABOUT BALSAM MOUNTAIN PRESERVE
Nestled between the charming mountain towns of Sylva and Waynesville, Balsam Mountain Preserve is one of America’s most unique and sought-after mountain communities. The 4,400-acre enclave, located high in the Blue Ridge Mountains, opened in 2004 anchored by a thrilling Arnold Palmer Signature Course that has been heralded as America’s best mountain course.
Balsam Mountain Preserve offers luxury living in an authentic mountain environment. Its diverse mix of real estate includes luxury estates, homesteads and village homes, as well as rustic-elegant cabin and cottage fractionals. Of the 4,400 acres, 3,200 acres are safeguarded in a permanent land trust to protect the natural mountain habitat and provide an expansive natural playground for residents and their families. Plans call for 354 homes to be created within the community, which rises to 5,400 feet and offers stunning mountain views. All residences adhere to the International Dark Sky Association guidelines for outdoor lighting, which fosters privacy and stargazing.
More than 40 miles of private hiking and equestrian trails provide symmetry between work, play, indulgence, health and wellness. The property’s elevation averages 3,500 feet above sea level, which promotes outdoor recreation in a cooler environment. In addition to the golf course, Balsam Mountain Preserve offers extensive equestrian facilities. Other community highlights include a noteworthy culinary program featuring the Summit House restaurant, Mine Tavern and new Boarding House Marketplace, private campsites, a Nature Center, more than 40 miles of heritage trout streams that offer some of the best fly fishing in North America, historical gathering sites, the Ruby Valley Fitness & Wellness Pavilion, racquet sports and pool facilities, spa services, and much more.
