The European Club Education Foundation (ECEF) has named the two recipients of its 2027 Joe Perdue Bursaries, an annual initiative designed to propel professional development and education across the European club management sector.
Created to honour Joe Perdue’s foundational work for industry education in Europe, the bursaries help club managers deepen their professional skills, expand international networks, and step forward into advanced career roles.
This year's honors go to Nathan Gilpin, General Manager of Perranporth Golf Club, and Dean Montgomery, Director of Golf at The Hawthorn by Galway Bay.
Nathan Gilpin receives support to attend the CMAA World Conference in Chicago in 2027. The event brings together global industry professionals to share operational strategies and hospitality standards. Gilpin will represent both his home venue, Perranporth Golf Club, and the Club Management Association of Europe (CMAE).
Reflecting on the honor, Gilpin shared his enthusiasm:
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“I’m absolutely delighted to have been awarded the Joe Perdue Bursary. This opportunity means a huge amount to me, and I’m incredibly grateful to the European Club Education Foundation and CMAE for their support.
“CMAE has already played such a big part in my development, so to now have the chance to head to Chicago, represent both Perranporth and CMAE, and meet and learn from club professionals from around the world is really exciting. “I can’t wait to get out to the States, experience Chicago and see what I can learn from the approach to club management and hospitality there. I want to make the most of every opportunity and bring back ideas and experiences that will benefit our team and the club. “With Perranporth celebrating its centenary in 2027, it makes the timing even more special. I’m proud to be representing the club on an international stage in such an important year for us.” |
Dean Montgomery earns his bursary to attend the BMI 3 – Strategy & Leadership course in Berlin. The executive development module focuses on expanding strategic management capabilities as Montgomery works toward achieving the Certified Club Manager (CCM) designation.
Montgomery expressed his gratitude for the opportunity:
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“I am incredibly proud and honoured to have been awarded the Joe Perdue Bursary, particularly given Mr Perdue’s remarkable legacy and contribution to education within our industry.
“My journey with CMAE so far has been hugely rewarding, and I firmly believe they are the leaders in education, professional development and networking within the club management industry. Above all, what makes CMAE so special is the incredible people you meet, the friendships you build and the connections you make along the way. “I am extremely grateful for this opportunity and excited to attend BMI 3 Strategy & Leadership in Berlin, where I look forward to expanding that network, continuing my professional development and taking another important step towards achieving my CCM designation.” |
Following the selection, the ECEF formally congratulated both Gilpin and Montgomery, wishing them success as they begin their respective educational initiatives in 2027.
