Hoebridge Golf Centre’s Mike O’Connell has become the first manager of a public pay-and-play centre in Europe to be awarded the prestigious Certified Club Manager (CCM) qualification.
Mike, the senior general manager at Hoebridge – part of BGL Golf, the UK’s leading golf course owner and operator – joins an elite group of 28 club managers across the continent, covering a variety of club operations, to have received the accreditation from the Club Manager’s Association of Europe (CMAE).
Recognised as the global industry benchmark for golf club managers, the CCM requires a comprehensive knowledge of 10 core club management competencies, including club governance, food and beverage management, accounting and financial management, and membership and marketing.
Colin Mayes, BGL chief executive, commented: “Mike’s achievement highlights the dedication of our staff to offer great customer service.
“Some people have a perception that golf clubs are unwelcoming, but as a forward thinking company, BGL Golf places an emphasis on friendliness and quality service.
“We are always supportive of professional and personal development and I’d personally like to congratulate Mike on achieving this prestigious qualification.”
In achieving the CCM, Mike follows in the footsteps of BGL Golf’s, David Cook – the general manager of Burhill Golf Club, the group’s prestigious flagship venue and headquarters.
Hoebridge Golf Centre is a public pay-and-play centre with a strong membership and boasts three superb golf courses, extensive practice facilities, a busy pro shop, a Horizones gym, an Adventure Golf Course and a welcoming clubhouse.
The Club Managers Association of Europe (CMAE) is a non-profit making professional association with members involved in the management of sports clubs (golf, tennis, sailing, rowing, rugby, football, cricket), health and fitness clubs, leisure, city and dining clubs located throughout Europe.
Hoebridge Golf Centre www.hoebridgegc.co.uk
CCM Qualification www.cmaeurope.org/certification