The Golf Club Managers Association has officially become the Golf Club Management Association (GCMA) following approval by members at the 2026 Annual General Meeting.
The change from “Managers” to “Management” reflects the broader and increasingly diverse nature of leadership within modern golf clubs, where success depends on effective decision-making across operations, finance, governance, people management, member experience and long-term strategic planning.
Founded in 1933, the Association has evolved alongside the profession it represents. Its move from the Association of Golf Club Secretaries to the Golf Club Managers Association in 2007 recognised the changing responsibilities of those leading golf clubs. This latest change continues that progression, ensuring the GCMA’s identity better reflects the full discipline of golf club management.
CEO Tom Brooke said: “This is an important and progressive moment for the Association. The profession has evolved significantly in recent years, and this change ensures our identity reflects the modern landscape of golf club management.
“The Association remains fully committed to supporting today’s club leaders while helping develop the next generation of professionals entering the industry. We believe this evolution strengthens our position as the professional home for golf club management.”
While the name has changed, the Association’s purpose remains the same. The GCMA continues to support Club Managers, General Managers and senior golf club leaders through education, professional development, accreditation, resources, events, guidance and peer-to-peer connection.
For those working in golf club management, membership offers access to a professional community built around shared challenges and practical support. Whether you are an experienced General Manager, moving into a leadership role or developing your career within club operations, the GCMA provides a network of people who understand the realities of running a golf club.
Members benefit from learning opportunities, industry insight, professional development pathways and access to support that can help them make better decisions in their roles. The Association also gives golf club management professionals a collective voice, helping raise standards, strengthen careers and promote the value of effective leadership across the sector.
As clubs face growing pressure around financial sustainability, recruitment, member expectations, governance and operational performance, the role of skilled management has never been more important. The GCMA’s new name reflects that wider professional landscape and reinforces its commitment to supporting those responsible for leading clubs through it.
A phased rollout of the new identity across branding, communications and member materials will take place over the coming months.
Click here to find out more and to become a GCMA member
