A series of new National Education Days have been announced by the GCMA.
In an exciting addition to the Association’s education and personal development provision, these specialist meetings will provide top-level speakers addressing on key industry topics and workplace issues to keep members as the leaders in the golf industry.
The National Education Days have been designed to have broad appeal and will also welcome non-members with an interest in the subjects.
The first will be held on Friday, May 27, at The Kendleshire, in Bristol, from 9.30am.
Following that meeting, National Education Days will also be staged at venues in the North and South of England, as well as Scotland, throughout the remainder of this year.
The days will focus on two key strands for the GCMA: Sustainability and Governance.
The R&A’s Director of Sustainable Golf, Arlette Anderson, will look at the strategic direction for golf in sustainable terms, and some practical applications for clubs will be provided by Dr. Marie Athorn, Business Conservation Advisor at the RSPB.
On Governance, leading experts will consider the nuances between the roles of Manager, Secretary, Managing Secretary, Club Manager, General Manager and CEO, as well as looking at skills mapping of boards and committees, relationship management, and how to make better decisions.
They will also look at the challenges of governance through golf club case studies and will guide the audience through the applications of lessons learned.
Gavin Robinson, GCMA professional development manager, said the National Education Days were aimed at providing a higher level of education to as many people as possible.
“Traditionally, the GCMA has delivered that at Conference – those top-level speakers and issues – but that happens every two years,” he said.
“These days are really aimed at providing that education to our serving and experienced managers on a more regular basis and closer to home.
“We will delve deeper into these chosen subjects and uncover the more intricate, finer details and through this we will develop a better understanding which will benefit our audience.”
He added: “I think these National Education Days are going to have broad appeal and there is an opportunity to speak to non-members as well – highlighting their needs and our desire for greater collaboration.
“When you look at the golf club, and you think of the Professional side, the staff, and then the Volunteer side of the golf club, the board / committee members – we really want to bring those people on board with us.
“The aim is to ensure there is a greater understanding whenever those conversations are going on between the general manager, the chairperson, or the board.
“I can’t wait to get the first of these education events over the line and delivered. I’m confident it will be hugely beneficial and we’ll look forward to hosting many more.”
The event at The Kendleshire is priced at £50 for GCMA members, and £95 for non-members, and Association members are encouraged to book for interested chairpeople and board members who may also benefit. To book a spot, click here.
Further details of additional speakers and the dates and venues for subsequent National Education Days will be announced shortly.
Those who aren’t already members can contact the Member Services team at memberservices@gcma.org.uk and join a nationwide community of current and aspiring golf club managers.