GCMA Accreditation Programme Reaches 100 Accredited Managers

22 January 2026

We’re proud to celebrate a significant milestone in the evolution of our Accreditation Programme: the GCMA Accreditation Programme has now reached 100 accredited managers. This achievement marks an important moment not only for the Association, but for the profession as a whole, highlighting the growing commitment to recognised standards, professional development and excellence within golf club management.

The GCMA Accreditation Programme was developed to recognise and support golf club managers who demonstrate a high level of professional competence, leadership and commitment to continuous development. Achieving accreditation reflects an individual’s dedication to best practice across key areas of club management, including governance, finance, people management, compliance and strategic leadership.

Reaching 100 accredited managers underlines the increasing value placed on professional standards within the industry and reinforces the GCMA’s role in setting clear benchmarks for excellence.

GCMA Professional Development Manager, Gareth Morgan commented:

I am incredibly proud to celebrate reaching the milestone of 100 GCMA Accredited Managers. To see this number almost double in just 15 months is a powerful testament to the quality, dedication and professionalism of managers across our community. Being part of this journey has been a genuinely brilliant experience. Every accreditation represents not just a title, but years of experience, tangible achievements and a clear commitment to continued professional development.

What has stood out to me most is the enthusiasm and integrity with which managers have engaged in the accreditation process. They have taken the time to reflect on their impact, evidence their capabilities and invest in their own growth, often alongside demanding roles. GCMA Accreditation gives managers the recognition they truly deserve, shining a light on the vital contribution they make to their organisations, teams and the wider profession.

Reaching 100 Accredited Managers is not just a number; it marks a growing culture of excellence, professionalism and pride in golf club management. I am excited about what this momentum means for the future and honoured to have played a part in supporting so many managers on their professional journey.”

GCMA Accreditation provides managers with a clear pathway for professional recognition, supporting career progression while offering clubs confidence in the leadership and expertise of their management teams. The programme complements the GCMA’s wider education and development offering, ensuring managers are equipped to meet the challenges and opportunities facing today’s golf clubs.

For employers, accreditation demonstrates a commitment to high-quality governance and leadership, reinforcing the value of investing in professional development.

We congratulate every accredited manager who has contributed to this milestone and thank them for their commitment to excellence. Together, we are shaping a stronger, more professional future for golf club management.

By Mark Shanley

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John Steele

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John moved into the corporate world, before he enjoyed an outstanding career as a professional rugby player achieving international honours. After his playing career, he turned his hand to coaching and achieved the highest accolade for a British club coach by winning the European Cup with Northampton Saints. He then became Executive Director on the Saints Board during a period of unprecedented growth, and served on the England Rugby Board during the successful world cup campaign of 2003. It was no surprise that John’s talents were called upon to drive through a change and modernisation programme as CEO of the Rugby Football Union – a challenge that became controversial and ended in his departure from the post after only a year, but with his dignity and professional pride intact.

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Dr Jo Salter MBE

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