The Club Management Association of Europe (CMAE) is proud to announce that Jonathan Kinsella, Managing Director at The Northern Lawn Tennis Club, has officially achieved the prestigious Certified Club Manager (CCM) designation.
Jonathan’s career in sport and club leadership began with a distinguished background in tennis. After serving as a Director of Tennis, he transitioned into general management in 2020, taking on the role of General Manager and now Managing Director at one of the UK’s most historic and respected racquets and leisure clubs.
Commenting on his achievement, Torbjorn Johansson, CEO of CMAE, said:
“Jonathan’s progression from tennis professional to club executive highlights the evolving nature of leadership in our industry. Earning the CCM designation is a remarkable achievement that recognises his dedication, capability, and vision for modern club management.”
Jonathan shares his thoughts on this momentous achievement in an exclusive Q&A:
Well done on achieving the CCM, How happy are you right now?
Achieving the CCM feels incredible, similar to the excitement and relief I felt when I earned my first ATP ranking point. I’m proud of this accomplishment, considering the challenging journey it took to get here. Being recognised alongside industry professionals I admire is an honour. However, like my first professional point, this achievement is just another starting point for the ongoing challenges of club management.
You have been a GM since 2020 and a career within Tennis before that (and a Director of Tennis), was this on your career path and a goal to be a GM and what is your feeling about it now?
Since 2020, I have been a GM, following a career as a Director of Tennis. Becoming a GM wasn’t initially on my career path since I hadn’t been exposed to many GMs in the tennis industry and never considered I could succeed in other club management positions. In hindsight, if I had looked into this profession straight out of university, I would have seen many aspects I enjoy and had the skillset to grow within the industry. It’s certainly a profession I’ve grown to love and respect. The parallels between different types of clubs have become clearer as I gain more experience in my role. It’s a role that requires continual learning, navigation, and resilience, much like my time in professional tennis helped me adapt and grow.
You sat the CCM Exam Review Course in April. How was that experience compared to “normal” training?
I took the CCM Exam Review Course in April, and it was an invaluable experience. It allowed me to fully focus on the exam and provided face-to-face contact on important issues I hadn’t given enough study time to. I had many excuses not to take the exam, but I’m glad Toby encouraged me. The course helped me settle my nerves and focus.
What about your CCM journey? What will you remember the most?
Reflecting on my CCM journey, I’ll remember the challenge of balancing each course while running my club. Drawing on the advice, insight, and experience from those involved was incredibly worthwhile. Coming from a tennis background, relying on others wasn’t a natural quality for me, but over the 6 years, I became more open to mentorship and collaboration with peers from different perspectives. This has changed me as a manager and improved my interactions with staff, members, and others in the industry.
What would be your biggest challenge at your job right now?
Currently, my biggest challenge is moving from a club that has been unprofitable and under-invested to what is now a thriving club very much in the ascendancy. I have an extremely capable staff and coaches that I believe in, and my goal is to help them recognise our improved position. It’s important to empower them to take on new challenges, embrace change, and make decisions. I’m excited to see their growth and success in the coming years.
Anything else you want to share with people thinking about becoming CCM?
For those considering becoming CCM, embrace the process and persevere. It’s challenging to balance this with club responsibilities, but it’s not just about having three letters next to your name on LinkedIn. It positions you to better help yourself and those around you. For fellow racquet professionals and relevant governing bodies, this programme can safeguard our sports and retain talent. My passion for sport drives my belief that effective club management at all levels promotes excellence in both performance and recreation, benefiting everyone in society.
