Best Newcomer Heather Moran’s shock at award win

26 November 2025

Heather Moran was not expecting to hear her name read out during the Gala Dinner, but was proud to earn such recognition.

Being crowned Newcomer of the Year at the GCMA Awards proved to be a huge surprise for Heather Moran.

The La Moye General Manager was taken aback to hear her name read out during the Gala Dinner at the Golf Club Management Conference & Exhibition, hosted at the De Vere Cotswold Waterpark.

It was during a spell as front of house at Cheshire’s Hale Golf Club that Heather developed a passion for the golf industry, and the journey she has been on since has now led her to national recognition.

We caught up with Heather after she had collected her award in front of her peers to find out more.

How did it feel to win the Best Newcomer category?

I’m incredibly proud – and really surprised. For the newcomers award to go down to three women is a sign of things to come. It’s a sign for the boys to note that we’re on our way. On a personal level, it’s absolutely incredible. I nearly quit this job after six months, and it was my peers and colleagues who encouraged me to keep going. I’m really, really pleased I did.

Why do you think you won the award?

I’m putting it down to the Irish gift of the gab! It’s been a busy two years. We’ve just finished a big course development project, which was daunting when I started. I had big shoes to fill after the previous manager left. I honestly don’t know why I won – I’m just elated.

What does this mean for your future, and how do you think it will set you up moving forward?

From my members’ point of view, I think it shows that within my industry – a career industry with professional development, learning, education and a supportive network – I’m a contender. It shows I was the right fit for this role and that they’re in safe hands, I hope. For me, I’m coming back for Manager of the Year next year!

What advice would you give to those coming into the industry?

Education. I know that sounds obvious, standing where we are and surrounded by the people we’re with, but this really is a career now – a professionally run, professionally developed career. Learn. Take in what you can. Soak up as much as possible from the people around you, because those who’ve been in the industry a long time are the oracles of how it’s done and how we can move forward. Golf club management is going from strength to strength – just soak it all in.

By GCMA Content Team

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