We are thrilled to announce that Nick, founder of Little Owl Entertainment, will be a featured speaker at the 29th Annual Conference! With a rich background in music touring, hospitality, and country club management, Nick is uniquely positioned to share his expertise on transforming member events into unforgettable experiences.

Since founding Little Owl Entertainment in 2013, Nick has been dedicated to merging live music, creative experiences, and top-tier hospitality. His journey from a musician and event producer to a tour manager for some of music's biggest names has equipped him with a wealth of knowledge on event curation. At the conference, Nick will draw on this experience to offer actionable insights and strategies for elevating your member events.

Join us at the 29th Annual Conference to gain valuable insights from Nick and learn how to transform your events into standout experiences that your members will love. We look forward to seeing you there!

Presentation Synopsis:

In Nick's MasterClass, he will guide attendees on how to rethink their approach to yearly club events. He will explore the fundamental questions of why these events are held and how we want members to feel when they leave. Nick will challenge us to consider if we are focusing on the right aspects of event planning and whether we have ever truly asked members what they want. He will provide an insider's perspective on changing our mindset and intentions behind event planning. Drawing from his extensive experience in tour managing major recording artists, Nick will share how these artists approach creating a major show or tour for their fans. He will also reveal tricks, trends, and opportunities that combine the worlds of hospitality and private clubs with live music and immersive experiences, offering valuable insights to elevate your events.

Not yet registered for Conference? Click here to sign up today! 

• Dress Code: Appropriate attire is required at all times. For ladies, this includes suits, dresses, skirts, or pants with jackets or elegant sweaters. Gentelen are requested to wear coats and ties. Casual slacks, jeans and athletic attire are NOT considered appropriate. 
• Electronic Policy: We ask for your cooperation in observing the Club's electronic device policy. Cell phone usage is limited to designated areas, with discretion and respect for fellow Club members. 

Learn More & Sign Up for the Workshop Today!

PCMA is Pleased to Announce that Registration to the 29th Annual Conference is OPEN!

Mark your calendars for an exceptional event taking place from August 5 to 7, 2024, in the heart of the nation's capital. However, the excitement begins early, with additional activities scheduled on August 3-4, including the President/Vice President Workshop, Certification Exams, Networking Events, and more. Pre-Conference Events will have separate registration forms.

This year, we are thrilled to bring together industry professionals and enthusiasts at the luxurious Ritz-Carlton, where the conference will unfold. Be sure to explore the hotel page for detailed information and secure your accommodations promptly. The conference promises an immersive experience, offering unparalleled opportunities for networking, knowledge-sharing, and professional growth.

Don't miss out on this extraordinary opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, gain valuable insights, and enhance your skills. The 29th Annual Club Membership & Marketing Conference is shaping up to be an unforgettable event, and we encourage you to register now to secure your spot. Join us in making this conference a highlight of your professional journey!

Click here to register for conference

We want to extend our heartfelt thanks for making the 28th Annual Club Membership & Marketing Conference a resounding success. Your presence and participation played a pivotal role in making this event unforgettable. 

Over the course of this conference, we witnessed an incredible exchange of ideas, knowledge, and experiences, all of which contributed to a vibrant atmosphere of learning and collaboration. Your active engagement in the various sessions, discussions and networking opportunities showed your dedication to the Club industry’s growth and prosperity. 

We truly believe that the success of our Conference is a testament to the strength and resilience of the PCMA community. Your enthusiasm and passion for Club membership and marketing are driving forces to begin the positive changes and innovations happening in our industry. 

We hope you had a memorable and enriching experience at the Conference and that you’ve taken away valuable insights, new connections, and fresh ideas to implement in your Clubs. Our mission is to help you succeed, and your support allows us to continually strive toward that goal. 

We encourage you to stay connected and continue the conversations that began at the Conference. Share your experiences, thoughts and success stories with the PCMA community. Let’s keep the momentum going!

Thank you once again for being a part of PCMA’s 28th Annual Conference. Your presence made it a remarkable event, and we look forward to seeing you again next year in Washington DC!

Be sure to check out the Breakout Session Notes and download.submit any Conference photos on the PCMA app!

Your PCMA Team

• Effective Communications & Electronic Campaigns
• Initiation Fees & Dues
• Onboarding
• Waitlist Membership
• Rules, Regulations & Bylaws

• Manager of the Membership / Marketing Department
• Membership Director
• Member Relations Professional

If you have additional notes to submit, please email them to jourdyn@askpcma.org. 

Pacesetter Technology 

Clubessential

EA Photography

Long Drive Agency

Global North Star

Reliable Background Screening

Cindy Novotny - Proud Out Loud

Frank Vain - Industry Trends & Updates

John Ellett - How to be a Marketing Change Agent

John Fornaro

John Fornaro is a highly accomplished private club industry veteran with more than 20 years of invaluable experience. He hold the esteemed positions of CEO & Publisher of "The Boardroom" Magazine, CEO & President of Association Private Club Directors, and CEO of Distinguished Clubs, LLC. Beyond these roles, John actively contributes as a speaker, writer, and consultant for the private club industry to further advance the industry. With a deep understanding of the private club landscape, John has been a driving force shaping the industry, providing valuable insights and fostering excellence among clubs nationwide. 

We are thrilled to announce that Frank Vain, President of the McMahon Group, will be one of the presenting speakers at PCMA's 28th Annual Membership & Marketing Conference. With his extensive experience in providing consulting and planning services to private clubs throughout North America, Frank brings a wealth of knowledge to the table.

Frank's expertise lies in offering specialized services such as membership surveys, strategic planning, operational analysis, and facility long-range planning. By leveraging his insights, private clubs can develop tailored strategies that address their unique situations and drive success.

As a highly respected figure in the industry, Frank Vain is a regular contributor to leading publications like Club Management, Club Director, and BoardRoom. His commitment to education and industry advancement has been recognized through prestigious awards such as the Gary Player Club Educator of the Year in 2012 and 2015, as well as the Lifetime Achievement Award in 2021 by BoardRoom.

During the conference, Mr. Vain will not only share his expertise but also delve into the specific trends between 2022 and 2023. Attendees can expect an enlightening session where Frank discusses the emerging challenges and opportunities that private clubs are facing in the ever-evolving landscape.

We are honored to have Frank Vain as part of our lineup of esteemed speakers, and we are confident that his session will provide valuable insights to enhance the membership and marketing strategies of our attendees. Don't miss out on this opportunity to learn from one of the industry's finest. Register now for PCMA's 28th Annual Membership & Marketing Conference.

Join us for the "Meet To Eat Network Dining Opportunity" at this year's Conference! 

After a day of insightful education on Tuesday, we invite all attendees to an exclusive dining experience where you can mingle with fellow Members and PCR partners. Discover the incredible atmosphere and delectable food that Margaritaville has to offer, while connecting with peers and making new friends. 

It's going to be an evening of great mingling and networking, where each person can choose and pay for their own meal from the menu. To make the experience even more enjoyable, a PCMA Ambassador will accompany each group, ensuring an engaging and lively conversation.

To secure your spot for the Meet to Eat Network Dining opportunity, simply visit the Conference Registration Desk when picking up your credentials and attendee gift bag. Remember, SPACE FOR EACH SEATING OPTION IS LIMITED, so be sure to sign up early to guarantee your spot!

Don't miss out on this fantastic chance to connect, dine, and create meaningful connections. We look forward to sharing this wonderful evening with you!  #PCMAConference #MeetToEat #NetworkingOpportunity

We are pleased to announce that John Ellett, CEO of The Ellett Group, will be speaking at PCMA's 28th Annual Membership & Marketing Conference. With his expertise as an acclaimed author and CMO specialist, Ellett's session will equip marketing leaders with actionable strategies for driving change and fostering growth. This is an invaluable opportunity for professionals seeking to transform their marketing practices and achieve remarkable success in their organizations.

As CEO of The Ellett Group, Ellett advises CEOs and CMOs on growth strategies and organizational transformation. With his previous roles as a senior partner at Prophet Brand Strategies and CEO of Springbox and nFusion, Ellett brings a wealth of experience in the digital marketing field. Notably, he played a pivotal role in Dell North America's phenomenal growth, contributing to their transformation from a $60 million to a $3 billion company within seven years.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Ellett is a respected author, having penned "The CMO Manifesto: A 100-Day Action Plan for Marketing Change Agents." His insights have been featured in Forbes CMO Network, where he discusses the evolving role of the CMO, B2B marketing trends, and the impact of artificial intelligence on marketing. With his diverse expertise and contributions to the industry, John Ellett is sure to deliver a compelling session that will inspire and empower attendees at the conference. We hope to see you there!

Escape to Margaritaville and get ready for PCMA’s Signature Beach Party at the 28th Annual Conference!

At this year’s Private Club Membership and Marketing Conference, ALL attendees are invited to let loose, mingle with PCMA peers, and create unforgettable memories at the Signature Beach Party at no additional cost—talk about a paradise perk!

While enjoying the stunning sunset views on Lake Conroe, attendees can immerse themselves in the Spirit of the Islands and bask in the Waterfront Paradise as they leave the demands of reality behind. 

The experience will include an array of fabulous food stations with options from fresh seafood delicacies to sizzling barbecue, so there's something to satisfy every craving. And of course, what's a beach party without delightful libations? Attendees can look forward to sipping on flavorful concoctions with tropical flairs, from margaritas to piña coladas, as they dance the night away.

Remember, the dress code is all about embracing the Margaritaville lifestyle—think "Casual IN LATITUDE and comfortable IN ATTITUDE." After all, the best memories are made when you're having fun and feeling carefree. 

Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to connect with your PCMA community while enjoying the finest in island-inspired cuisine, tropical drinks, and an atmosphere that radiates with positive energy.

Please join us at the Chapter President & Vice President Leadership Workshop during the 28th Annual Private Club Membership & Marketing Conference. During this interactive workshop, we will delve into the essence of leadership and followership, empowering Chapter Officers to enhance their effectiveness in leading their chapters and fostering successful leadership and affiliate roles. 

With a focus on Chapter Governing, Chapter Education, and Chapter Idea Exchange, this workshop will equip Chapter officers with the tools and knowledge to elevate their Chapter's performance. The schedule for the day includes a breakfast session, followed by a National/Chapter Business Session, an open lunch hour, a Chapter Mixer, and a wrap-up session. 

The workshop is a wonderful opportunity for each attendee to discover their leadership potential and drive their chapter towards success. The workshop will take place on Sunday, September 17 in the Coastal Ballroom at the Margaritaville Lake Resort. We hope to see you there!

We are thrilled to announce that the dynamic and inspirational Cindy Novotny will be returning to PCMA’s 28th Annual Conference as the opening keynote speaker. Known as the 'Radical Mentor,' Cindy has been a beacon of guidance and motivation for countless individuals in the hospitality and travel industry. By overwhelming requests, PCMA has invited her back in 2023, recognizing her unparalleled ability to ignite audiences with her energy and passion.

As the founder of Master Connection Associates and an iconic figure in the industry, Cindy brings years of experience working with clients in hotels/resorts, private aviation, private clubs, restaurant groups, and global entertainment theme parks. Renowned for her expertise in leadership, sales, and customer service excellence, she is truly a force to be reckoned with who’s ready to share her industry insights. Cindy's presence on stage is captivating, and her authentic approach resonates deeply with attendees – so attendees are in for a treat! 

During her keynote address, Cindy will shed light on the rapid changes in customer behavior, emphasizing the urgent need for private clubs to emotionally connect with prospective members and elevate the standards of service and creativity for current members. In today's digital era, where members are self-informed and self-directed, staying relevant and surpassing competition requires embracing these shifts. Cindy's insights will empower attendees to navigate these challenges and exceed expectations in the ever-evolving luxury landscape.

Don't miss this exceptional opportunity to learn from Cindy Novotny, a true industry icon who has helped countless individuals thrive in the hospitality and events business. Get ready to be inspired, informed, and energized at the 28th Annual Membership & Marketing Conference.

This year PCMA Members have the opportunity to extend an invitation to a colleague or industry professional in membership marketing & communication to register and attend the 28^th Annual Membership & Marketing Conference, without being an “Active” PCMA Member.

Your chosen invitee will register themselves and have full access in selecting their preferences for educational breakout sessions and member networking events during the Conference, just as our members do. Your chosen invitee will have the chance to network with industry leaders, gain insights into the latest trends in private club membership & marketing and immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere at the 28^th Annual Membership & Marketing Conference. What's even better is that your chosen invitee will pay the same $1925 all-inclusive price as a member, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the unparalleled value and benefits of the conference.

The “Extend an Invite” opportunity is not opening the Conference to non-members at random; it is an incredible opportunity for PCMA Members to share the PCMA experience with a non-member colleague. PCMA believes the "Extend an Invite" initiative will not only provide your invitee with unique insight into the PCMA community, but also foster stronger connections and collaborations within the private club industry at large. Don't miss out on this opportunity to “Extend an Invite” and share the PCMA Annual Conference experience at the Margaritaville Lake Resort on the picturesque Lake Conroe in Houston, Texas.

Simply click the link below and forward the You’re Invited  flyer to your chosen invitee. The flyer can be downloaded and sent as an attachment or you can forward the link in your browser. All conference information, including venue and travel is provided within the brochure.

IN ORDER TO EXTEND AN INVITE TO CONFERENCE, THE INDIVIDUAL HOLDING THE PCMA MEMBERSHIP MUST ATTEND CONFERENCE AS WELL. 

Thank you for your continued support of PCMA and we look forward to seeing you and meeting your chosen invitee. See you in TX! 

PCMA is thrilled to bring back The Club Membership Challenge at its 28th Annual Conference, taking place at the breathtaking Margaritaville Lake Resort on the picturesque Lake Conroe in Houston, Texas, from September 16 - 20. As the club industry's official international award program honoring club membership excellence, The Club Membership Challenge recognizes and awards clubs for their exceptional efforts in membership recruitment, relations, retention, and event initiatives.

In today's increasingly competitive club membership environment, the new generation of private club membership and marketing professionals has showcased their impressive skills more than ever before. The challenges presented have brought out the absolute best in club membership and marketing inventiveness. This year's Club Membership Challenge is set to highlight the remarkable initiatives and strategies implemented by clubs to attract and retain members, including sample topics such as prospective member events, legacy programs, youth programming, and much more.

Participants of The Club Membership Challenge - 2023 will have the exciting opportunity to share their challenge entry initiatives with conference attendees at PCMA's 28th Annual Membership and Marketing Conference. A dedicated space will be provided at the conference to feature program display boards, allowing contestants to showcase their innovative approaches and success stories. For more information, including submission requirements, awards, and registration details, we encourage you to visit https://askpcma.org/page/Membership_Challenge.

The Club Membership Challenge promises to be an inspiring showcase of the club industry's best practices and inventive strategies for membership recruitment and retention. Join us at PCMA's 28th Annual Conference to learn from these remarkable initiatives and engage with industry leaders in an immersive and enriching experience.

PCMA is happy to announce that registration for the 28th Annual Club Membership & Marketing Conference is live on the PCMA Website! This year's conference will be presented in a new three-day layout giving all attendees more time for networking with peers and experiencing all that the Conference and the beautiful Margaritaville Lake Conroe Resort has to offer. In additional to the new three-day layout, PCMA is also excited to bring back the opportunity for qualified members to take their Certification Exam before the Conference officially begins. 

When: Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022 | 6:00 – 9:00 PM

Attire: Best chic casual clothes and comfortable shoes are acceptable and appropriate for exploring the exclusive oyster house and private sporting community

Transportation Provided by PCMA

Pickup Location for Event: The Westin Savannah Harbor Resort & Spa

Departure Time: 5:15 PM (loading begins at 5 PM)

Return Time: 9:15 PM (loading begins at 9 PM)

About the Event

PCMA is excited to host the Annual Signature Networking Event at the Oyster House of Henry and Clara Ford located on the grounds of The Ford Field & River Club in Richmond Hill, Georgia.

Featuring live entertainment by Nashville recording artists Luke Lander!

Menu Items

Roasted Oysters

Boiled Peel & Eat Shrimp

Steak & Potato Soup

Candied bacon Lardons

Asparagus & Boursin Wrapped Prosciutto

Mixed Greens Salad

Jalapeno Cornbread with Whipped Butter

Herb Roasted Chicken

Braised Pork

Mac & Cheese

Herb Roasted Potatoes

Green Beans with Olive Oil & Almonds

About The Ford Field & River Club

The Ford Field and River Club is a storied sanctuary in the Georgia Lowcountry. The Ford has roots that reach back more than a century to 1917, when American industrialist Henry Ford first encountered the land. Overlooking the Ogeechee River, this lowcountry refuge instantly stakes a claim in Ford’s imagination.

The Ford Field and River Club is a private sporting community of elegant homes, incredible natural beauty, and extraordinary amenities located 18 miles south of Savannah, Georgia in historic Richmond Hill. The property consists of 1,800 acres along the Ogeechee River. The Main House, once Henry Ford’s winter retreat, was inducted in the National register of Historic Places and remains a beloved gathering point for members. They offer our members an 18-hole Pete Dye designed golf course, a deep-water marina, guided offshore fishing, a golf clubhouse, sporting clays, stocked lakes, canoeing and kayaking, an equestrian center, a fitness center a full-service spa, three Har-Tru tennis courts, pickleball, two pools and ten miles of hiking trails.

Make sure to register for this event when you register for Conference. 

Co-Founder Professional Club Marketing Association

Seemingly with the passing of Covid and its various challenges, the business world, inclusive of the club industry, appears to have taken one of two directions.  Many club leaders have chosen to take a victory lap reveling in the windfalls, earned or otherwise.  Many others have become more acutely alert to what may lie ahead.  Wise and strategic leaders have judiciously applied both ways of thinking as they strategically plan the future.  These visionary leaders look to opportunities to educate not only themselves, but their team as well.  To lean and prepare for the next windfall or loss is as Wendell Willkie said, “Education is the mother of leadership”.  It starts at the top and is constantly vigilant, never complacent.

As Albert Einstein once said, “Education is not the learning of facts but the training of the mind to think.”  Supply chain, labor, inflation, recession, fuel costs, member attitudes/needs and food shortages are the tip of the iceberg for strategic thinkers.  Clubs will surely feel and perhaps suffer the consequences of global issues well beyond the control of individual clubs.  However, through education, inside and outside of our industry, we can quickly learn and comprehend not only downside risks but ways to mitigate and manage the effects of both global and local risks.  It starts with getting your team well educated in what may lie ahead, not only affecting their department, but affecting to members, who are the lifeblood of our revenues. 

At PCMA, just one of the many goals and objectives we have strategically developed and will continue to facilitate, are means for our members to stay on top of understanding the current issues and future possibilities of the private club industry.  Developing a Speaker’s Bureau of very knowledgeable educators, in a variety of disciplines to provide invaluable education to PCMA’s chapter members was introduced at the beginning of this year. The Critical Thinking Series webinar platform recently launched, was developed to educate on topics and matters which attempt to see issues that are coming or projected to come, due to situations of current influencers. The CTS webinars provide expert commentary on the, what and how of these issues affect our industry; and as traditionally timed on the calendar, PCMA’s Annual Membership & Marketing Conference. The 27^th Annual Conference is slated for September 11^th -13^th , 2022, in Savannah, GA. Engaging networking opportunities, excellent industry focused and known speakers will be presenting, along with streamlined educational opportunities offered through club-type breakout sessions and pre-selected topics for roundtable session providing for peer to peer thoughts and opinions on what lies ahead and solid solutions for avoiding risks associated with such topics, outlines just a bit of what this years conference has in store. These are only three of the means in which PCMA continually focuses on not only keeping our members, but through some of the opportunities non-members as well, strategically informed, and educationally prepared to succeed in this industry.      

As we all know, the only thing constant is change.  Clearly, we all need a rest after the long and arduous Covid years, but can we really afford to rest?  Change appears to be coming at an even more rapid pace.  The changes are not only affecting clubs, but they are also affecting the members who make up our clubs, the staff who implement and execute within our clubs, inclusive of our very own, PCMA members as well.  Learning to listen, to comprehend their issues, and to react to them before they become critical, are just  a few of the things that Association led team education provides, in addition to recognizing the more global issues that will affect us in the future.  As Malcom X, stated, “Education is the passport to the future.  For tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today”.  Tomorrow is already forming.  Are you fully prepared?

As we near the 27^th Annual PCMA National Conference in Savannah, Georgia on September 11^th -13^th , all the preparation of speakers, round table topics and break-out sessions have been directed toward what lies ahead.  As Benjamin Franklin poignantly observed, “An investment in knowledge pays the best interest”.  Can you afford to miss it?

For more information on the upcoming conference, please click here. 

At its highest level, the goal of these networking events is to share expert advice or relevant industry trends. Breakouts and Roundtable Discussions are also great for having conversations about opposing viewpoints on the same topic. Ideally, participants and speakers alike takeaway new perspectives and information from every discussion, which can be particularly valuable in our current economic environment.

BREAKOUT SESSION: BY CLUB TYPE

PCMA is proud to introduce our experience, capable and very knowledgeable Break-Out Session Facilitators:

Real Estate – Susan Greene, MCMP, General Manager/COO  Master Property Owner’s Association of Waterlefe Golf & River Club

City Clubs – Rodney Stoyer, CMP, Director of Membership, Missouri Athletic Club

Yacht Clubs – Julie O’Neill, Director of Membership & Communications, PCMA Southeast Florida Chapter President

Country Clubs – Rachel Underwood, MCMP, Member Services Coordinator, River Crest Country Club

The PCMA team is pleased to have tailored this years’ networking by type of Club. In this way, new participants as well as seasoned veterans can discuss the issues on a variety of experience levels but also from a variety of perspectives. Bring your most important questions and issues so that in addition to the topics recommended by the facilitators, you have the opportunity to discuss the issues most important to you. 

ROUNDTABLE DISCUSSIONS:

As we all know through our own experiences the purpose and primary benefit of a roundtable is to give each participant equal standing in a smaller discussion environment, enabling them to contribute their perspectives and ideas freely to the conversation. Representing a “peer to peer” form of education, which has become very popular overall.  For the 2022 Conference, we are enlisting experienced PCMA members as facilitators for the round table discussions. In an effort to create cultural delineation the discussion topics are based on varying orientations of clubs.  This is something that members have requested we do to keep the discussions relevant and lively.

This year’s conference has over 5 hours of networking sessions, more than any past conference.  Never has this kind of informational sharing been more important.  By being at conference and sharing your ideas, visions, and thoughts you become a huge part of the solution for our great industry. 

See you in Savannah……

To learn more and to register for this year's Conference, please click here. 

Craig grew up as a child actor in Hollywood. However, after graduating from USC Film School, his life took a left turn. He became a yoga monk and lived in an ashram for 35 years, where he studied, served and counseled thousands. As a respected swami, he lectured worldwide on meditation and mindfulness, and coached such influential people as Steve Jobs and Beatle, George Harrison. Today, Craig is a sought after coach and keynote speaker in the club industry. Along with his business partner, Rick Ladendorf, Craig is a co-founder of Mindful “U”, offering education and ongoing support to clubs nationwide.

Presentation Synopsis

Leadership in the private club industry has always been a challenge. Yet, in the current environment, with Covid hangover, staffing issues, and a younger workforce in the wings, managing people will require new skills and understanding. In this amazing session, you’ll get tools and learn simple techniques to be a true influencer - how to deal with yours & others' ego, how to meditate, core communication skills, plus tips on how to help those around you be more mindful, responsible and balanced. Learn to be your club’s champion. This session is about the building blocks of culture, and that means to all of us…. How you lead really matters.

To learn more and register for this year's conference, please click here.

Gary Eversole spent 30 years leading one of the world's foremost providers of customer / employee experience and retention programs working alongside Fortune 100 companies designing, developing and implementing leading edge retention and loyalty programs. Gary is passionate about helping club leadership improve their member experience.

About Jason Soltis

Jason specializes in systems management, software development, management training and group facilitation. He is responsible for project management, survey design and implementation. Jason has been able to find innovative ways for clubs to increase revenue and efficiencies while improving the standard of services offered.

Presentation Synopsis:

New members: Who are they, do they want something different than tenured members, and why hadn't they joined pre-Covid? What about existing members? What life changes have they experienced that may alter what they need or want from the Club. How can you know for sure? An incredibly powerful program to look at the issues, challenges and ways to lead your club to an appropriate and sustainable strategy.

To learn more and to register for this year's Conference, please click here. 

Kris has enjoyed nearly 30 years in hospitality in nearly every capacity. Earning two Masters Degrees in business along with her MCMP, she strives to be better today than yesterday. As a general manager of the Beach & Tennis Club at Pebble Beach, her greatest achievement was being recognized for her work on the 2010 U.S. OPEN Executive Committee. Kris is committed to expressing the importance of the membership professional role and developing the individual. Kris has independently traveled to 29 countries, lived in 8 states, and was an actress on Nickelodeon. Today, Kris is the Director of Membership, Communication & Public Relations at Bethesda Country Club, located just outside Washington, D.C.

Presentation Synopsis:

Developing your position, responsibilities and the trust that ensues can be lined with challenges.  The most successful professionals have developed a process around building relationships, effectively communicating, along with instilling confidence, making them more efficient and valuable to the organization. Don’t miss this first of its kind leadership discussion.

Mr. Vain provides consulting and planning services to private clubs throughout North America. Through the use of specialized services including membership surveys, strategic planning, operational analysis and facility long range planning, Frank assists clubs in developing individualized strategies for their unique situations. 

Mr. Vain joined McMahon Group in 1988 and has more than forty years of experience in the management and development of hospitality properties including country clubs, city athletic and dining clubs and residential communities. Frank is Past President of The Country Club of St. Albans, a 36-hole country club located in Missouri, and he is a former partner in Concord Sports Club, a 1,700 member family athletic club in St. Louis. Frank was elected to the Board of National Club Association in 2011 and served as chairman in 2019-20. 

Mr. Vain is a native of Philadelphia and a graduate of Franklin & Marshall College, Lancaster, Pennsylvania. He is a featured speaker at the annual Club Managers Association of America World Conference, National Club Association National and Regional Conferences, Major Golf Associations and a regional chapter meeting of club managers and leaders. 

Frank is a regular contributor to industry leading publications like Club Management, Club Director and BoardRoom. He was named the Gary Player Club Educator of the Year for 2012 and 2015, and received the Lifetime Achievement Award in 2021 by BoardRoom. He is also a co-author of McMahon's Club Trends, a recognized industry benchmark on the trends and issues affecting private clubs. 

Presentation Synopsis

The club industry has been a beneficiary of the changes the COVID pandemic has had on society. Many clubs now have a waiting list for members and usage levels remain elevated. The question on everyone's mind is, "will the good times continue after the pandemic ends?" This presentation highlights the other factors that suggest the pandemic bump has staying power - and the things you can do at your club to make it happen both in membership and interdepartmentally. Don't miss this electrifying and breaking trend analysis by one of the industry's most knowledgeable and reliable sources. 

To learn more about and to register for this year's conference, please click here!  

They call her the ‘Radical Mentor’ for a reason. She never stops, she says it like it is and throughout all the ups and downs of the crazy hospitality and events business, she was a light positivity who help many people not only survive but thrive.

As the founder of Master Connection Associates, Cindy Novotny is an icon in the hospitality industry. Her specialties include leadership, sales, and customer excellence. She is ‘a force to be reckoned with’ and brings a stage alive with energy and passion.

Her exposure is vast including luxury hotels, events, automotive and real estate.

Energy, passion and drive guarantee Cindy’s message will captivate each person in her audience. Her targeted message and popularity have no boundaries as she addresses groups across the world. Her charisma and humor combined with in-depth knowledge leaves the audience with reality-based skills and actionable items.

Having traveled 10 million miles, the term ‘road warrior’ may have been coined by Cindy. She has worked with executives all over the world helping them adjust their focus, improve their teams, and enhance service delivery and sales. Having logged 10 million miles, Cindy loves the smell of jet fuel in the morning, with her case packed she’s ready to embark on her next journey!

Speech Synopsis

Customer behavior is changing faster than private clubs can keep up. Unless the private world of luxury can emotionally embrace the prospective members needs and raise the bar on service and creativity for the current members, it will be harder to stay relevant and keep ahead of the competition of luxury resorts that offer similar services in golf, fitness, spa and dining. In today’s digital era, the self-informed client has become self-directed. They know more about your club before they ever pick up the phone to call you or stop by personally.

As a result, Directors of Membership and Marketing Experts rank #3 in influence after #1 – referrals from business associates and #2 – social media.

Master Connection Associates & Cindy Novotny have been working closely in the luxury hospitality industry both in the private club space and in luxury resorts for years. Specializing in destinations, private clubs (both golf and city clubs), hotels, cruises, travel advisors, and private aviation. We have created a learning journey that closes the relationship gap between existing clients, prospective clients, and staff. The biggest risk today in luxury is not being relevant and focusing on overdelivering in results and underdelivering in sales and leadership behavior. This is also true to the Director of Private Events at the clubs.

These changes are coming fast and keeping up with the trends is key. As prices increase, looking for the new client is increasingly more important than ever before. But remember how knowledgeable these clients are today. Learning how to transition in membership and event sales, luxury acumen in marketing and business etiquette that is equal to an iconic private club is the new currency for building trust and establishing such a strong relationship with the client. You know you are a trusted advisor when they call first and call you on your cell phone. Clients today are looking for sales professionals that can provide insight and not ‘rattle off’ what a client can see on your website.

To find more information and register for this year's conference, please visit the event page here. 

The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa is also one of Georgia's premier golf destination, with an 18-hole PGA championship golf course managed by the experts at Troon Golf. The resort and club's location on the beautiful Hutchinson Island lends itself to a great golf experience for groups made up of beginners and pros alike.

To book your room for the 2022 Private Club Membership & Marketing Conference with the PCMA preferred rate, please visit https://book.passkey.com/e/50322325

To register or learn more about this year's conference, please visit the event page here. 

So welcome back to " A New Beginning", one you surely won't want to miss...

As conference draws near, it is important to understand that PCMA will diligently adhere to all local, state and federal mandates regarding COVID protocol. As of today, masks are not mandatory in Dallas. The hotel suggests masks outside of your room and in common areas, but again are not mandatory.

Masks are certainly optional for anyone that prefers to wear one for their own personal safety and comfort, but will be at each attendee’s personal discretion.  We will continue to keep you updated on COVID mandates as we get closer to the conference and as information becomes available.

For more information on this year's Conference, please click here. 

Christina will stress the importance of setting goals, and take us on her riveting journey of personal success created and sustained by moral conviction and adherence to a personal mission statement. You won't want to miss her amazing story!

Christina Toups has had a successful career in the club industry for over 28 years, where she worked in several different capacities from F&B Director to General Manager/COO.  Most recently Christina worked at Ridglea Country Club in Fort Worth, Texas where she was the General Manager/COO for 17 years.  She is a graduate from the University of North Texas with a BS in Hotel and Restaurant Management.

Christina has been a member of Club Managers Association of America for almost 30 years.  She served the Texas Lone Star Chapter as President in 2005, on National Committees and on the National Board of Directors from 2015-2021.  In 2016, she was named “Manager of the Year” by the Texas Lone Star Chapter.

In addition to serving with CMAA, Christina sits on the University of North Texas’ CMHT Advisory Board.   She also volunteers with Meals on Wheels, Tarrant County, where she served as Chairman of the Board in 2015 and has served on their Endowment Board since 2019.  In 2017, she was recognized by Meals on Wheels for her philanthropy.

Speech Synopsis for This Year’s Conference

Living Your Best Life, One Goal at a Time!
Where are you going?  Where do you want to end up?  How will you get there? Or even know when you have arrived?  Goals are the Road Map to Living Your Best Life! Christina Toups, CCM CCE will take us on her personal journey as she set, changed, adapted and achieved both her professional and personal goals.  What forks in the road did she encounter? Did she accomplish all of her goals? Or is there still more ahead?

For more information on this year’s Conference, please click here.

Michael will dive into the importance of member experience and how your Club's Mission Statement must deliver consistent over the top member experiences.

Michael is a one of the leading influencers and conference presenters in the private club industry. A national award winner specializing in creating and building exemplarily management teams that consistently deliver exciting membership experiences like a ton of golden bricks.

As GM/COO his teams elevated 2 clubs to Platinum Clubs of America status. (Leading Thunderbird Country Club in Rancho Mirage, CA for 6 years, and Exmoor Country Club in Highland Park, IL for 10+ years.)

Michael is regularly featured as an industry expert in Boardroom Magazine.   Additionally, 160+ articles covering Leadership / Management and Encouragement are easily viewed via LinkedIn.

While not even a graduate, he was honored in presenting the keynote address at the MBA Conference at Northwestern University’s famed Kellogg School of Management and guest lecturing at Purdue University and Johnson & Wales University. 

Michael’s interview where he discussed “What’s in Your Briefcase?” is easily the most downloaded program in the history of Private Club Radio. Here we dive deep into: Zero Based Budgets … Capital Reserve Planning … Productive Meetings … Perspective … Having the Right People on the Bus, and Solutions.

Most recently, in his spare time ― Michael teamed with Gabriel Aluisy to author The ABC’s of Plutonium Private Club Leadership.  Since release at the CMAA Conference in Nashville, TN — this book has rocketed to being accepted as THE go-to reference for all those filling leadership roles in private clubs:  Club Presidents ― Board Members ― GM/COO’s — and, Department Heads.

Michael describes his wife, Kim, as “The most beautiful woman that God ever created. Plus, she’s not too tough on the eyes either.”  Of note, Kim recently retired after managing the Cherokee Town Club in Atlanta, GA for the past 7 years. Soooo … they’ve packed up, and now reside in their new home in the Palm Springs, CA area.

Michael openly admits that HE has never learned a single thing over the years while listening to himself talk.

BUT— but we know YOUR experience will be different.

By the way, just in case you were wondering — CNG stands for: Certified Nice Guy. Self-certified, by the way. But, a nice guy nonetheless.

Speech Synopsis for This Year’s Conference

It’s ALL about the EXPERIENCE!  We are going to “discover” the real reason you were hired and what your real job is. (Frankly, most folks don’t know. Not really.) We are going to fix that! We’re also going to identify what your club’s new Mission Statement MUST be in order to deliver consistent over the top membership experiences. (To your peril if you don’t!) We are going to prove that clubs who think exceeding the expectations of their membership is exciting, are wrong! (It’s boring and not enough!)  We are going to connect all the above dots, and more, and have our own great experience and a ton of fun while doing so!

To learn more and register for this year's conference, please click here.

Rick will take an in-approach to how growth and retention will expand through the member experience, potentially leading to an organic process not seen since the late 80’s. Don’t miss this insightful and interesting discussion.

Rick Coyne is President of ClubInsights and a co-founder of Professional Club Marketing Association.  His leadership and guidance at over 1,300 private clubs nationally and internationally, is unprecedented and he has eagerly shared his experiences by providing over 400 published articles and over 900 workshops worldwide including, South Africa, Canada, Mexico, Prague, France, South America, Spain, and Mainland China and he continues to provide education to PCMA and CMAA Chapters all over the country.

Among the many awards he has received for his philanthropic support of the private club industry is a Lifetime Achievement Award from BoardRoom magazine and 2 Gary Player Black Knight Awards as Educator of the Year.  In 2019, he was named as one of the private club industry’s most influential people.

Speech Synopsis for This Year’s Conference:

Traditionally one of the highlights of conference is knowing where our industry is heading specifically as it relates to the role of the membership professional.  As a leading researcher in the private club industry, Rick Coyne will facilitate an hour overview and discussion on emerging trends in membership, facility planning and best practices in driving member growth, retention, usage and satisfaction.  The sixty-minute program will address Covid’s ongoing impact, member communication opportunities and how history is repeating itself and what that means to future trending in clubs.   

To learn more and register for this year's conference, please click here.

With more than twenty-five years of experience as a general manager of private country clubs, Three Carpenter, CCM, is on a mission to help organizations develop work cultures that enrich employees and inspire results. His dedication to People First has revolutionized the organizations he’s led by creating team-oriented, highly collaborative workplace environments. By emphasizing mentoring and coaching and placing great value on the contribution of every staff member, Three has cultivated happy and engaged team members. Together he and his teams have transformed outdated and financially struggling private clubs into hubs of activity that are growing and profitable. Three has been the GM/COO of Crow Valley Golf Club in Davenport, Iowa, for over five years, and enjoys speaking and promoting the People First message. 
 
Jackie Carpenter has nearly twenty years of experience in the private-club industry. With an undergraduate and Master’s degree in Hospitality Management, she has taken her passion for learning and education to a new level. Along with Three, she has been instrumental in creating caring work cultures and positive employee experiences at organizations across the country.  Having served as the Director of Extraordinary for the Coaching Department and The Extraordinary Leader Program for over six years, she worked with people on all levels of organizations. Jackie continues to have a finger on the pulse of the club industry as she is the editor of The Private Club Advisor and has been for nearly nine years.
 
Three and Jackie’s book, People First: The 5 Steps to Pure Human Connection and a Thriving Organization is a comprehensive roadmap to building teams who operate with loyalty, ownership, value and excellence. The book will be released on October 5, 2021 by Post Hill Press.
 

Speech Synopsis for This Year's Conference:
People First is a mindset that cultivates employees who are loyal, take ownership and operate with excellence. In the private club landscape, the key to creating outstanding member experiences is by first creating great employee experiences. Discover the power of pure human connection and transform your member experience by first focusing on your most important assets—your people!

To learn more and register for this year's conference, please click here.