Women in Club Management: Leveraging Learning & Leadership

Entry Details

The Women in Club Management Program initiative has enhanced CMAACT by establishing a dedicated platform that empowers and advances women professionals in the private club industry. Recognizing industry-specific challenges, including work-life balance, compensation negotiation, and breaking through historical barriers to reach the GM/COO role, the initiative blends education focused on actionable strategies with confidential networking forums. This approach creates a safe space for women to share experiences, build resilience, and cultivate organic mentorship opportunities that connect emerging leaders with experienced club managers.

Implementation

The initiative was implemented through a series of structured education sessions, panel discussions, and events tailored to comprehensive career growth.

Sessions like “Women in Club Management: Leading, Advancing & Thriving” featured industry leaders such as Meridith Picarelli-Khattar, CCM, CCE, General Manager/COO, Myers Park Country Club, who addressed interviewing tactics, career missteps, compensation negotiations, and leadership presence. “Visible, Trusted, Chosen” hosted expert Valorie Luther, Founder & CEO of Creative Concepts to guide managers through digital marketing fundamentals. The unique focus was on AI-driven member discovery and online reputation management.

Each year, we host four to five Women in Club Management Sessions, including one hands-on event. These opportunities for creative expression, such as the “Holiday Floral Arranging”, provide an interactive environment to build and expand trusted network connections beyond daily club operations.

In a recent education survey, female chapter members responded overwhelmingly positively, naming the Women in Club Management sessions as their most valuable to attend. The program was praised for delivering practical, value-driven education and meaningful networking for our Women in Club Management community. The Connecticut Chapter is proud to offer this safe space, which provides a supportive pathway for all our female members and emerging leaders.