The European Club Education Foundation (ECEF) is delighted to announce the recipients of its two Joe Perdue Bursaries for 2027, supporting the professional development and education of two club management professionals.
Established in recognition of Joe Perdue’s significant contribution to education within the club management industry in Europe, the bursaries provide opportunities for individuals to further their knowledge, develop their professional networks and take the next steps in their careers.
This year’s recipients are Nathan Gilpin, General Manager of Perranporth Golf Club, who has been awarded a bursary to attend the CMAA World Conference in Chicago in 2027, and Dean Montgomery, Director of Golf at The Hawthorn by Galway Bay, who will receive support to attend BMI 3 – Strategy & Leadership in Berlin.
Nathan is looking forward to representing both Perranporth Golf Club and CMAE at the CMAA World Conference, where he will have the opportunity to connect with club management professionals from across the globe, gain new insights and experience different approaches to club management and hospitality.
Speaking about receiving the bursary, Nathan said:
“I’m absolutely delighted to have been awarded the Joe Perdue Bursary. This opportunity means a huge amount to me, and I’m incredibly grateful to the European Club Education Foundation and CMAE for their support.
“CMAE has already played such a big part in my development, so to now have the chance to head to Chicago, represent both Perranporth and CMAE, and meet and learn from club professionals from around the world is really exciting.
“I can’t wait to get out to the States, experience Chicago and see what I can learn from the approach to club management and hospitality there. I want to make the most of every opportunity and bring back ideas and experiences that will benefit our team and the club.
“With Perranporth celebrating its centenary in 2027, it makes the timing even more special. I’m proud to be representing the club on an international stage in such an important year for us.”
Dean has been awarded the Joe Perdue Bursary to attend BMI 3 – Strategy & Leadership in Berlin. The course will provide an opportunity to further develop his strategic leadership capabilities, build on his existing knowledge and continue his journey towards achieving the globally recognised Certified Club Manager (CCM) designation.
Dean commented:
“I am incredibly proud and honoured to have been awarded the Joe Perdue Bursary, particularly given Mr Perdue’s remarkable legacy and contribution to education within our industry.
“My journey with CMAE so far has been hugely rewarding, and I firmly believe they are the leaders in education, professional development and networking within the club management industry. Above all, what makes CMAE so special is the incredible people you meet, the friendships you build and the connections you make along the way.
“I am extremely grateful for this opportunity and excited to attend BMI 3 Strategy & Leadership in Berlin, where I look forward to expanding that network, continuing my professional development and taking another important step towards achieving my CCM designation.”
The ECEF would like to congratulate Nathan and Dean on their awards and wishes them every success as they take advantage of these exciting opportunities.
