Keen to strengthen an already active region, John Douglass is focused on supporting the next generation.
John Douglass has been appointed Regional Manager for London and the Home Counties, succeeding Maureen Brooker and taking on responsibility the GCMA’s region with the most members.
A long-standing and highly respected figure within the association, his appointment follows a career spanning more than three decades in golf club management.
John’s journey into the industry came via a distinguished military background, before establishing himself at clubs including North Berwick and Liphook, where he retired in November last year. He was also recognised with the GCMA Lifetime Achievement Award in 2025, underlining his contribution to the profession.
From early involvement with the Sennelager (British Army) Golf Club in 1993 through to leadership roles at renowned clubs, John brings a breadth of experience to the role. Now, he is focused on supporting members across a region he knows well, helping to develop both people and the profession.
How long have you been a GCMA member and what does the association represent to you?
I’ve been a member for over 32 years. When I first joined, it was actually called the Association of Golf Club Secretaries, so I’ve seen it evolve over time. For me, the GCMA represents a number of things. It provides a sense of security and real comradeship, and it’s a valuable source of knowledge.
Importantly, it’s also somewhere you can turn to for advice and support when times are challenging. That network is incredibly important in this industry.
What does it mean to you to assume the role of Regional Manager?
London and the Home Counties is the biggest region in terms of membership, and I’ve had a long association with it, so I felt I had something to offer. When the opportunity came to step into role, it felt like the right time.
It’s a real honour to look after the region. I’ve been fortunate in my career to be associated with some excellent golf clubs, and this role gives me the chance to give something back and support others using that experience.
What can GCMA members expect from you in the role?
It’s already a very active region, with a strong programme of smeetings, workshops and seminars. There’s a lot for members to get involved in, and I’m keen to build on that.
My focus will be on continuing to develop the region and supporting the growth of our members. I’m also particularly passionate about helping younger managers coming into the industry. My own route was very different, coming from a military background and entering golf management as a second career, whereas now it’s a recognised profession.
If I can help broaden horizons, both within golf and beyond it, that’s something I’d be very proud of.
What are you most looking forward to?
I’m really looking forward to working more closely with members across the region and helping them get the most out of what the GCMA offers.
There’s already a great level of engagement in London and the Home Counties, so it’s about building on that momentum, creating opportunities for people to connect, and ensuring the region continues to develop in a positive way.
Tell us something that your fellow GCMA members don’t know about you…
I’ve actually got three things that may be of interest. I once played Cypress Point and Pebble Beach on the same day – and didn’t pay a green fee.
I also played cricket at The Oval against Surrey. Cricket is my greatest love, and I was blessed with good eye for a ball.
Finally, before my career in golf, I was in the army as a tanker. I commanded a Challenger tank in Germany for a number of years – a 70-tonne main battle tank with a 120mm gun, which was quite something to be responsible for.
