Ray Grant was appointed GCMA Captain at the recent AGM. Here you can learn a little more about him…
Having spent nearly three decades in the Royal Navy, new GCMA Captain Ray Grant knows a thing or two about leadership.
We caught up with Ray, now General Manager at Northwood Golf Club, to congratulate him on his appointment and find out about his plans in the role.
What does it mean to you to be appointed GCMA Captain?
“Being appointed GCMA Captain means a great deal to me, not only personally but also for the club I have the honour of managing — Northwood Golf Club in Middlesex. This achievement would not have been possible without the unwavering support from the club, especially since I’m still serving as the General Manager. A heartfelt thank you to Northwood for making this journey possible. It’s truly the best club anywhere!”
Can you tell us a little more about your career background?
“I spent 29 years in Her Majesty’s Royal Navy, where I gained invaluable experience that shaped my leadership style. After retiring, I sought a management role in the civilian sector, and an opportunity arose to manage Grim’s Dyke Golf Club in Middlesex — another wonderful golf club. There, I learned a great deal about managing and serving golf members in a friendly and welcoming environment. Following that, I had the privilege of managing Northwood Golf Club in Middlesex, where I’ve proudly served for the past nine years and continue to do so. All of these experiences, and many others throughout my career, can be attributed to the lessons I learned in the Royal Navy, which I consider my true university of life.”
What can GCMA members expect from you in the role of Captain?
“Our members can expect a dedicated proud person who gives 100% in everything he does. I would like to convey positive messages to them and bring any comments on how to make this association of really wonderful and bright people even better than it is. The key in making something work is through education, communication and value for money. I believe this GCMA team give us that more so now than has ever been the case. So let’s communicate, educate and increase our membership numbers. Any Club Manager in my opinion who is not a GCMA member is a failing on our behalf, so let’s find ways to sign them up now, not next week, next month or next year — now!”
What are you most looking forward to?
“It’s quite simple, really, I’m looking forward to traveling around this magnificent country, meeting incredible people, and sharing the positive message of the GCMA. And, of course, I wouldn’t mind fitting in the occasional round of golf along the way!”
How would you summarise the importance of the GCMA?
“I strongly believe that all golf managers — whether you’re a CEO or a line manager — need a guiding light to help advance their careers. The GCMA provides exactly that — a trusted organisation to help set career goals, offer support, and provide valuable resources. But it’s more than just professional growth; it’s about having a network of peers to learn from and collaborate with. What could be more valuable than that?”
Tell us something that your fellow GCMA members don’t know about you…
“I was likely one of the youngest sailors to serve in the Falklands Conflict, having just turned 18 in mid-April 1982. I also must mention that I am a very passionate Glasgow Rangers fan!”
