The Club Management Association of Europe (CMAE) is delighted to announce that Philip Worthington, General Manager of St George’s Hill Golf Club, has achieved the prestigious Certified Club Manager (CCM) designation.
The CCM is the highest professional accolade in club management, recognising individuals who demonstrate excellence across leadership, governance, operations, finance, and member experience. Phil’s achievement reflects a unique and inspiring career journey, underpinned by dedication, resilience, and a deep passion for the game of golf.
Philip began his career as a Touring Golf Professional, competing at a high level across Europe and globally before transitioning into club management. His move into the management side of the industry was driven by a desire to continue contributing to a sport that had shaped much of his life.
Torbjörn Johansson, CEO of CMAE, commented:
“Philip’s journey to achieving the CCM is a fantastic example of the diverse pathways into club management. His background as a touring professional, combined with his commitment to development and leadership, makes this a well-deserved achievement. We are delighted to welcome Philip into the CCM family and congratulate him on reaching this important milestone.”
Throughout his journey on the CMAE Management Development Programme, Philip has embraced both the educational and networking opportunities the pathway provides. Over nearly a decade, he has built strong relationships across the global club management community, highlighting the importance of collaboration and shared learning within the industry.
Philip now joins a global network of Certified Club Managers who are setting the benchmark for excellence in club management worldwide.
Q&A with Philip Worthington, CCM
General Manager, St George’s Hill Golf Club
You started your career within golf as a Touring Golf Professional. What made you go into Club Management?
Wasn’t good enough😉. Whilst perhaps not the answer you may expect, it isn’t far from the truth. Having played my way into the top 250 in Europe and top 750 in the World, it just wasn’t good enough. So, after a short hiatus away from the Golf Industry, I felt compelled to come back in work within an industry I cared about. Having spent nearly all my years since the age of 16 engrossed with a game I love, the natural progression from professional golf was to give back to the game that gave me so much by serving members and the industry I care for.
And that path started in Perth – Australia?! How did that happen?
Having stopped playing professional golf but having decided I wanted to work within the game, the next aim was getting a job. Despite an Honours Degree and 9 years of Touring Professional experience, I was unable to secure a position in the UK. So, having friends in Perth at the time, and a booming economy due to the mining industry, I took a chance. Flew out there on a working holiday visa and the rest as they say, is history. Golf Manager at Royal Perth within 4 weeks of landing, then returned to the UK having gained experienced via working with many reciprocal clubs based here in the UK.
You are now at St George’s Hill as GM. What is the best parts of your job?
I think it has to be seeing the improvements being delivered across the club, from team members growing, to processes and systems being updated, to the physical improvements and changes to our courses and facilities. These changes, generally, result in an improved members experience which is where the reward comes from. I will be a mere blip in the life of St George’s Hill Golf Club, but to work with a great Board, a talented team and a group of members who truly value their club, is a pleasure.
You have been on the CCM Pathway for a few years now, what are some of your best memories from it?
The pathway is an important part of personal growth, as well as an industry tool. The ability to learn from, and to share with, other managers and experts from the industry is an essential part of the pathway. I have been on the path for just shy of 10 years, with COVID causing me some delays and challenges along the way, but friends and connections that I have made along the way remain in place many years on. Even just sitting the exam last week, I was in the room with another colleague who I met for the first time in Dubai 9 years ago. The network is powerful, more should use it, and I would say that is my greatest takeaway.
If we look at one memory – who doesn’t remember Darshan getting us to stand up like an idiot in week one dancing round the room. It gives everyone a smile and made us all feel at ease.
With regards to your Golf career, Club Management career and now also being a CCM – what would you recommend young people thinking about career development?
I think the Club world provides a valuable and genuine career path to those invested in service. It won’t be the career choice for all, but if you want to work in a genial, friendly and rewarding industry; then I would suggest all younger people consider the industry. That said, it takes drive, commitment and a lot of understanding, there aren’t many industries where 500 people all know more than you….. For the younger professionals already in the Club world in some capacity – my advice is simple, if you enjoy it, go for it! Learn, attend courses, meet new people and network. The more you put in, truly the more you will get out. And who doesn’t want to stress for 4 solid days to take an 8 hour exam, it was pure joy…..
Any final comments:
Just a thank you to all the coaches, trainers and leaders that supported not only me, but all of us on this pathway. Your energy is as important as ours, and the drive each of you have to help an industry you love grow, is very important indeed. Thank you.
