The Golf Club Management Association (GCMA) and the UK Golf Federation (UKGF) have announced a strategic partnership to broaden access to professional education for UKGF-affiliated facilities. Under the agreement, the GCMA will serve as a Preferred Education Partner of the UKGF, offering specialized training to strengthen leadership, management capability, and operational sustainability across independent golf clubs.

The collaboration comes as golf facilities manage evolving member expectations, commercial pressures, and complex operational requirements.

Educational Offerings and Member Discounts

Through the partnership, UKGF-affiliated members receive an exclusive 10% discount on two core GCMA education offerings:

• Principles of Golf Club Management Course: Designed for aspiring managers, newcomers to the profession, or individuals seeking to refresh existing skills. Delivered by industry professionals, the curriculum covers governance, strategic planning, finance, health and safety, employment law, marketing, membership, food and beverage, and golf course operations.
• Advanced Management Programme (AMP): Structured for experienced managers seeking career progression. The programme features 10 Management Certificates focusing on specialized areas, including governance, strategic planning, finance, leadership, marketing strategy, strategic golf operations, health and safety management, food and beverage management, employment law, and golf course management.

Together, the two initiatives provide structured pathways for professional development, ranging from baseline management fundamentals to high-level strategic leadership.

Executive Perspectives

Leadership from both organizations highlighted the role of targeted education in modern facility management.

Tom Brooke, CEO of the GCMA, detailed the core intent of the initiative:

“Great golf clubs don’t happen by chance – they are built by capable leaders making informed decisions every day. Our role is to equip those leaders with the knowledge, confidence and professional support they need to succeed. This partnership means more clubs can access education developed specifically for the realities of managing golf clubs.”

Doug Poole, CEO of the UK Golf Federation, emphasized the added value for UKGF facilities:

“The UK Golf Federation is delighted to announce a new partnership with the Golf Club Management Association, with the GCMA becoming a Preferred Education Partner. This exciting collaboration provides UKGF members with access to targeted education programmes designed specifically to support golf club and facility managers, as well as their wider teams. UKGF members will be able to access education and development opportunities focused on strengthening the skills, knowledge and capabilities required to successfully manage and develop modern golf facilities.”

Availability and Access

The partnership and associated 10% discount on both educational programmes take effect immediately. UKGF-affiliated clubs and personnel seeking further information regarding enrolment and member benefits can contact either the Golf Club Management Association or the UK Golf Federation directly.

Source: GCMA.org.uk