New diploma in golf club management launched

The PGA, the British and International Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA) and the Golf Club Managers’ Association (GCMA) have launched a new ASQ Level 5 diploma in golf club management.

“Suitable for, and open to, all levels of skills and experience, this accredited golf-specific qualification is perfectly suited for existing managers, and those looking to move into the profession, perhaps from related roles in the golf industry – including club professionals and greenkeepers of all levels,” said a spokesman.

The first induction days will take place next month.

The diploma can be studied at the learner’s own pace, up to a maximum of three years, to accommodate the varying schedules of working managers, or aspiring industry professionals. It will be delivered through a combination of online and face to face workshops.

Training and education that has been previously undertaken, and is relevant to this new qualification, can be recognised through a formal process in order that course work is not unnecessarily repeated.

The nine units that comprise the qualification are:

• Leading and managing people in a golf club
• Managing change in a golf club
• Managing the operations of a golf club
• Marketing of a golf club
• Managing the finances of a golf club
• Understand personal and enterprising behaviours and skills
• Keeping up to date with legislation of a golf club
• Developing and managing a socially responsible golf club
• Managing innovation and growth in a golf club.

PGA executive director – Education & Global Development, Kyle Phillpots, said “The need to recruit and retain golfers in the face of increasing competition from work and other leisure activities, has meant that golf clubs have had to professionalise their operations. This qualification is designed to reflect the demands placed on the golf club as a business and equip managers with the skills, knowledge and behaviours they will need to manage a successful club and to develop their careers.”