Golf Managers | Certification

Professional Growth Through Certification

In many professions, a successful career is built on ongoing professional development, verified by a credible certification programme and recognized by both peers and the wider community.

For club management, the Certified Club Manager (CCM) designation has been the hallmark of professionalism since 1965 and in New Zealand since 2015. It stands as the cornerstone of CMAA’s certification programme and is widely respected as a symbol of a manager’s commitment to growth and excellence in the club industry.

A Dynamic programme

Like CMAA’s education pathways, the certification programme is designed as a continuous journey. It evolves with the needs of the profession and offers two additional levels of recognition:

Honor Society – CMAA’s prestigious recognition for long-term achievement
Master Club Manager (MCM) – awarded for significant, lasting contributions to clubs, the profession, and the community

Oversight of the programme rests with the Professional Development Committee, supported by CMAA’s Board of Directors. The Committee ensures the programme remains relevant, responsive, and aligned with the ever-changing environment of club management.

Professional Growth Through Certification

In many professions, a successful career is built on ongoing professional development, verified by a credible certification programme and recognized by both peers and the wider community.

For club management, the Certified Club Manager (CCM) designation has been the hallmark of professionalism since 1965. It stands as the cornerstone of CMAA’s certification programme and is widely respected as a symbol of a manager’s commitment to growth and excellence in the club industry.

A Dynamic programme

Like CMAA’s education pathways, the certification programme is designed as a continuous journey. It evolves with the needs of the profession and offers two additional levels of recognition:

Honor Society – CMAA’s prestigious recognition for long-term achievement
Master Club Manager (MCM) – awarded for significant, lasting contributions to clubs, the profession, and the community

Certified Club Manager (CCM)

The CCM designation is a professional certification that recognizes the unique skills and specialized knowledge required of today’s club manager.

Since its launch in 1965, the programme has opened countless opportunities for managers by demonstrating their ability to serve as key contributors to a club’s success.

Those who achieve the designation complete a programme enriched with:

Educational experiences
Practical knowledge
Business tools

Together, these elements equip managers to make a positive and lasting impact in their clubs.

Certified Club Manager (CCM)

The Certified Club Manager (CCM) designation is a globally recognized professional certification that highlights the unique skills and specialized knowledge required of today’s club manager.

Since its launch in 1965, the programme has opened countless opportunities for managers, demonstrating their ability to serve as key contributors to a club’s success.

What the CCM Programme Provides

Those who achieve the designation complete a programme enriched with:

Educational experiences
Practical knowledge
Business tools

Together, these elements equip managers to make a positive and lasting impact in their clubs.

Pathway to Qualification

To earn the CCM designation, candidates must:

Accumulate 300 credits (education and association activity) through approved programmes and activities
Successfully complete two accredited six-hour workshops
Complete the CMAA Business Management Institute (BMI) I, II and III levels, delivered as intensive five-day courses
Pass the final examination
Maintain ongoing education by earning 120 additional credits within each five-year period

Progress in New Zealand:

Over 90 managers from clubs across NZ have commenced study
22 managers have completed requirements and graduated with the CCM qualification

Upcoming BMI Courses

The New Zealand BMI educational programme continues in 2026 with:

BMI Club Management Course – 20-24 April 2026
BMI Food & Beverage Management Course – April 27 to May 1, 2026

Registration details are regularly posted under COURSES on this website.

Benefits of the BMI Educational Programme

The BMI programme offers significant benefits for both managers and clubs.

For Managers

Builds confidence through validated skills and knowledge
Provides access to industry-leading education and peer networks
Enhances career opportunities and professional recognition

For Clubs

Validates competency – ensuring managers have current, relevant skills and insights
Promotes staff retention – demonstrating commitment to professional growth and loyalty
Assists with managing risk – CCMs are tested on laws and regulations, helping clubs avoid complications and strengthen governance

The CCM designation is acknowledged worldwide as the symbol of excellence in club management. Approximately 1,500 CMAA members currently hold this prestigious qualification.

Testimonials

BMI Golf Management Course

“The BMI Golf Management course was an incredible learning experience. Walking top facilities at Tara Iti, Te Arai, Royal Auckland and Grange gave insights you just can't get in classrooms, and hearing directly from key staff was brilliant for understanding operational excellence.
I gained valuable course maintenance knowledge and developed deep respect for their expertise. I also found great retail and customer service ideas to implement at my club, plus networked with like-minded professionals in similar roles. Highly recommend it, especially to golf operations team members.”
— Nicole Martino CCM, Golf Manager, The Western Australian Golf Club