The Club Management Association of Europe (CMAE) is delighted to announce that Graeme Nethercott, Head PGA Professional at Deeside Golf Club, has achieved the prestigious Certified Club Manager (CCM) designation.
The CCM is the highest level of professional recognition in club management, awarded to individuals who demonstrate excellence across leadership, governance, finance, operations, and member experience through the CMAE’s BMI programme and final examination.
Graeme’s achievement marks a significant milestone in a career defined by dedication, development, and a deep connection to his club. Having spent 17 years at Deeside Golf Club, his journey reflects both loyalty and a continuous drive to grow within the industry.
Torbjorn Johansson, CEO of CMAE, commented:
“Graeme’s achievement of the CCM is a testament to his commitment to personal and professional development. His journey through the pathway, combined with his dedication to his club and the wider industry, reflects exactly what the CCM stands for. We are proud to welcome him into the CCM community.”
Throughout his career, Graeme has remained deeply committed to Deeside Golf Club, describing it as a “truly special club” with a supportive membership, strong team culture, and forward-thinking approach. His progression from PGA trainee to CCM is a reflection of both personal ambition and the supportive environment around him.
Graeme now joins a global network of Certified Club Managers who are setting the benchmark for excellence in club management across Europe and beyond.
Graeme Nethercott CCM – Q&A
Congratulations Graeme – you are now a CCM. What were your feelings after hearing the words “You have passed” following an eight-hour exam?
I felt a huge sense of pride and relief in equal measure. I’m incredibly grateful to have been given the opportunity to go through the entire pathway, and to now call myself a CCM is something I’m immensely proud of. A tremendous amount of effort goes into achieving this prestigious accreditation, and it’s hugely rewarding to join such an accomplished group of European Club Managers.
You have remained loyal to Deeside Golf Club since starting after University—now 17 years later, what is it that you love about the club?
Deeside is a truly special club, with a very supportive membership, a fantastic team, and outstanding facilities. There’s an innovative, forward-thinking and vibrant culture, which makes it an inspiring place to work every day. It’s genuinely a pleasure driving down our own mini ‘Magnolia Lane’ each morning.
I started as a PGA trainee under the guidance of the now-retired Director of Golf, Frank J. Coutts, back in 2009. To now have achieved my CCM under the leadership of our General Manager, Debbie Pern, feels like a full-circle moment in my career at the club.
You have a CCM in Debbie Pern, your General Manager. How has she influenced your aspiration to achieve the CCM designation?
Debbie has had a huge influence on my journey. If it wasn’t for her encouraging me to step outside my comfort zone as a PGA Professional and attend MDP 1 at Stirling back in 2019, I wouldn’t be in this position today.
Her leadership, guidance, and continued support have been invaluable, and I’m extremely grateful for the role she’s played in helping me develop both professionally and personally over the years.
You have been very golf-focused throughout your career—what do you enjoy doing outside of golf?
At the moment, most of my time is spent with my young family, which I absolutely love. Outside of that, I do enjoy watching football—probably more than I should! I also have a real interest in travelling and experiencing new places whenever time allows.
You have been on the CCM pathway for several years now—what are some of your best memories?
The entire CCM pathway has been an incredibly enjoyable and valuable experience. I’ve taken something meaningful from every stage—whether that’s from world-class speakers or the shared experiences of fellow delegates.
The culture within CMAE and CMAA is genuinely special. There’s a real willingness among club managers to collaborate, share knowledge, and support one another, which is quite unique.
Attending the World Conference in Tampa Bay in 2025 was definitely a standout moment—an unforgettable experience that I’ll remember for the rest of my life.
With your career progression and now achieving CCM status, what advice would you give to young people considering a career in club management?
I would strongly encourage anyone considering a career in club management to embrace opportunities for development and not be afraid to step outside their comfort zone. It’s a career that can be incredibly fun, engaging, and rewarding, but it also requires commitment, adaptability, and a willingness to keep learning.
Building strong relationships, being open to new ideas, and learning from others in the industry are all key. If you’re passionate about people, service, and continuous improvement, it’s a fantastic career path with real variety and opportunity.
Any final comments?
I’d like to extend my sincere thanks to Torbjörn Johansson at CMAE and Jason Koenigsfeld at CMAA for their guidance and support throughout the process.
I’m also extremely grateful to Deeside Golf Club, its members, and my colleagues for their continued encouragement and backing.
