Francois Swart, the General Manager of the Randpark Golf Club, has recently achieved his Certified Club Manager qualification (CCM) from the Business Management Institute, Georgia State University which provides some of the highest qualifications a club manager can attain.   He is the 13^th person in South Africa to have achieved this status.

To earn this qualification, he had to attend five Institute of Business Management courses over a span of five years’.   Then to achieve a minimum standard of 70% from a single sitting 7 hour examination. Swart commented, “Although we received textbooks to study from, many of the questions were based on experience.”

This qualification is essential in lifting the club to the next level.   “Golf is becoming more than a luxury past time.  We need to add value for the member.  Create new opportunities for people and families.  Randpark is not only about Golf, it is about the overall enjoyment of the members and visitors.  As an example Randpark Golf club has a running track and tennis courts.

His vision is to establish the club as a brand that people associate with quality and enjoyment.  “Members and visitors need to know what they will experience and have a great time, therefore growing the brand and the club.”

He plays golf himself and enjoys the comradery between the players and the brisk walks in the outdoors. “This is not a job, it is a lifestyle where like-minded people meet and share their passion for sport and common interests.”

As a CCM, Swart has been given the opportunity to attend the World Club Managers Conference in Florida next year. “It is essential to stay abreast with the latest trends and developments.  Indeed it is an essential component to retain this prestigious qualification.”

Apart from his previous qualifications in Financial Management, Hotel Management, Business Management and a City and Guilds Chef’s qualification, Swart is currently studying his BCom but ultimately intends registering for his Master Club Management qualification. 

His love for cooking took him into the Hotel Industry but his love for golf, guided him into Randpark Golf Club.  Francois Swart has a drive to see Randpark Golf Club become the Best Golf Club in South Africa.