Certifications/Hospitality & Recreation
CredentialHospitality & Recreation

Certified Club Manager (CCM)

The Certified Club Manager (CCM) is a voluntary credential for people who run private clubs, such as golf, country, city and yacht clubs. Nobody in Canada is required to hold it, but it shows employers that you have met a recognized standard in club leadership.

Official website ↗
Written by AI from public information on 2026-10-26. Fees and rules change and vary by province — confirm with the official body before relying on anything here.
Typical cost
about CA$3,000 to CA$6,000
an estimate in Canadian dollars
Time to earn it
about 2 to 4 years
Renewal
every 5 years
Issued by CMAA (clubs)

About

The CCM is issued by CMAA, the professional association for club managers. It is an international credential, and Canadian managers earn it and use it here. In Canada, the credential is held through the Canadian Society of Club Managers, which supports members across the country.

Club managers oversee many parts of a club at once. These include food and beverage service, membership, finance, facilities and staff. The CCM covers all of these areas. It is often seen as a mark of experience and commitment, and it can help when you apply for senior roles such as general manager or chief operating officer. You do not need it to work as a club manager. Many people find it helps them stand out and move up.

How to get it

  1. Join the association
    Become a member of CMAA and, if you are in Canada, connect with the Canadian Society of Club Managers. Membership gives you access to the education and support you will need.
  2. Build your experience
    Work in club management long enough to meet the experience standard set by CMAA. Time in a leadership role at a club counts toward your eligibility.
  3. Complete the required education
    Take the professional development courses and learning sessions that CMAA requires. Many are offered in person and online, so you can fit them around your job.
  4. Prepare for the exam
    Study the core areas of club management. Plan for a few months of regular study, using the association's guides and courses.
  5. Pass the exam and apply
    Sit the written certification exam and submit your application with proof of your experience and education. Once approved, you may use the CCM title.

The exam

The certification process includes a written exam that tests your knowledge of club management. It covers areas such as finance, operations, governance, human resources and member services. Most candidates study for a few months before sitting it.

Careers that mention it

No Canadian career on the site names this yet.

Keeping it

The CCM must be renewed on a regular cycle to stay active. To renew, you keep your membership in good standing and show that you have continued to learn. This is done by completing ongoing professional development. Keeping your credential current shows employers that your skills are up to date.

At a glance
Issued byCMAA (clubs)
TypeCredential
Where it appliesInternationally, including Canada
Required to workNo
Typical costabout CA$3,000 to CA$6,000
Time to earn itabout 2 to 4 years
Renewalevery 5 years
Sources
Last checked 2026-10-25