The Club Management Association of Europe (CMAE) is proud to announce that Mike McKenna, General Manager of Amata Spring Country Club in Thailand, has successfully earned the distinguished Certified Club Manager (CCM) designation.
Recognised globally as the hallmark of excellence in club management, the CCM designation reflects a deep commitment to professional development, operational expertise, and strategic leadership within the private club industry.
Mike’s achievement is a significant milestone in his career, underscoring his dedication to the highest standards of club management and his leadership at one of Asia’s most prominent clubs.
Torbjorn Johansson, CEO of CMAE, stated:
“Mike’s success in earning the CCM designation is a reflection of his hard work, experience, and continuous pursuit of excellence. He leads by example and has become a strong advocate for professional development in the Asian golf and club management community. We are proud to welcome him to the growing network of Certified Club Managers worldwide.”
Mike shares his thoughts on this momentous achievement in an exclusive Q&A:
Well done on achieving the CCM, Mike McKenna. How happy are you right now?
I’m incredibly proud and deeply grateful. Achieving the CCM marks the end of a journey that began in a hospital room during COVID, as my first son was born. It’s surreal to have finished just before his 4th birthday. This milestone brings an immense sense of fulfillment, not just for me but my whole family, who have shared in the sacrifices.
Your journey within the industry has taken you to almost all parts of the world – please share some of the highlights of that journey, besides ending up in Thailand now married with two beautiful boys and two bonus children;
The journey started in a Pro Shop in Newcastle, England, and took me through seven countries, including the USA, India, Indonesia, and Dubai. Each experience has added something unique, from learning advanced agronomy practices in the U.S. to managing Asian cultural dynamics. However, the most defining moment was transitioning from agronomy to a GM role, a shift the CCM program has helped support immensely.
You sat the CCM Exam Review Course in April. How was that experience compared to “normal” training?
The review course was intense but incredibly rewarding. Unlike typical training, it condensed years of knowledge into high-impact sessions. It pushed my limits and truly brought everything together, offering clarity and focus for the final exam. Interacting with instructors and peers added an added layer of motivation.
What about your CCM journey? What will you remember the most?
I’ll never forget the start—from a hospital bed with a newborn in my arms. That raw beginning shaped my entire journey. Also unforgettable are the people I’ve met—leaders like Kevin Fish, Toby Johansson, Bill Sanderson, and Jeffrey Kreafle (so many more) who’ve influenced me greatly. The mix of online learning, travel, and finally attending my first MDP in Prague made it a journey I’ll always treasure.
What would be your biggest challenge at your job right now?
Balancing continuous improvement at Amata Spring CC—especially after three major upgrades in four years—while maintaining high standards across all departments is a big challenge. But equally, it’s about making sure the team stays inspired and aligned with our vision of excellence, especially as we push elevated service standards and prepare for major developments.
Anything else you want to share with people thinking about becoming CCM?
Start where you are, even if it’s unconventional. My journey began online during a global pandemic while becoming a father. It’s not about perfect timing, it’s about commitment. Be ready to sacrifice, but also prepared to grow. The network, the knowledge, and the pride that comes with the CCM are truly life-changing. And once you earn it, remember it’s not the end—it’s a responsibility to help others climb too.
