Bangkok, Thailand: Mike McKenna, General Manager at Amata Spring Country Club, has 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.

McKenna’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 the Club Management Association of Europe (CMAE), said: “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.”

McKenna said: “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 fourth birthday. This milestone brings an immense sense of fulfilment, not just for me but my whole family, who have shared in the sacrifices.”

McKenna’s journey within the industry has taken him to almost all parts of the world.

He said: “The journey started in a pro shop in Newcastle, England, and took me through seven countries, including the US, India, Indonesia, and Dubai. Each experience has added something unique, from learning advanced agronomy practices in the US to managing Asian cultural dynamics.

“However, the most defining moment was transitioning from agronomy to a GM role, a shift the CCM programme has helped support immensely.”

McKenna, who sat the CCM Exam Review Course in April, added: “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.

“I’ll never forget the start (of his CCM journey) – 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 and 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.”

At Amata Spring, a two-time venue for the Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship and a host of professional events, McKenna is looking forward to the challenges that lie ahead.

He said: “Balancing continuous improvement at Amata Spring – 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.”

*Amata Spring Country Club is a Facility Member of the Asian Golf Industry Federation.