CMAE’s Inaugural MDP International Event with Obbi Golf

Gareth Macklin, CEO of Obbi Golf, proudly announced Obbi Golf’s sponsorship of the Club Management Association of Europe’s (CMAE) first-ever MDP International event held in the vibrant heart of Washington, D.C.

From September 15th to 18th, CMAE took its renowned Management Development Programme (MDP) across the Atlantic, offering club industry enthusiasts a unique opportunity to delve into the world-class private club scene of the United States.

The event unfolded against the backdrop of the iconic private clubs in Washington, D.C., often hailed as the epicenter of the world’s best private club culture. Delegates had the privilege of exploring educational and experiential insights alongside seasoned U.S. club managers. Venues such as Chevy Chase Club, Congressional Country Club, Bretton Woods Recreation Centre, and The Cosmos Club opened their doors, granting delegates exclusive access to the rich history and inner workings of these prestigious clubs.

MDP International boasted an impressive lineup of speakers, featuring top U.S. club managers who generously shared their wisdom and experiences in managing some of the nation’s and the world’s finest clubs. The esteemed speakers included luminaries such as Patrick Tobey, General Manager at Washington Golf & Country Club; Jeffrey Kreafle, GM/CEO at Congressional Country Club; Jeff Morgan, President & CEO at Club Management Association of America; Mitchell Platt, General Manager at Cosmos Club and Past President of CMAA; Ed Ronan, COO at Bretton Woods Recreation Centre; Luke O´Boyle, GM/CEO at Chevy Chase Club; and Michael Redmond, GM/COO at Metropolitan Club of the City of Washington, among many others.

MDP International is now set to become a biennial tradition, providing delegates with opportunities to immerse themselves in club culture in countries outside of Europe, the Middle East, and Northern Africa.

Reflecting on the event’s resounding success, CMAE President David Balden remarked, “This first International BMI (MDP) was a resounding success and one which will live in the memory for some time. The mix of education and experiences was well balanced, and we can all look forward to future BMI’s (MDPs) with some excitement.”

The training sessions during MDP International were expertly facilitated by CMAE CEO Torbjörn “Toby” Johansson, who expressed his excitement at witnessing these remarkable clubs in action. He extended his gratitude to Jason Koenigsfeld, Sr. Vice President, Professional Development at CMAA, for making the event a resounding success.

As Obbi Golf joins hands with CMAE to support events like MDP International, the future holds exciting prospects for those passionate about the world of club management.

Gareth Macklin noted, “We are thrilled to be a sponsor of this remarkable event that brings together club management professionals from around the world. The commitment to excellence displayed here aligns perfectly with our values at Obbi Golf, where we strive to elevate the standards of the golf industry.”

Stay tuned for more updates on Obbi Golf’s continued involvement in advancing the world of club management, and be sure not to miss the next MDP International event in 2025, where the destination will soon be revealed.