Ray and Sutton Achieve Master Club Manager Designation

Marc Ray is the General Manager/COO of St. Andrews Country Club in Boca Raton, FL. His monograph, Hurricane Communications with Internal Audiences in Private Gated Communities, provides communication guidance outlining recommendations for general managers to use in the event of a hurricane and addresses communication before and after a hurricane event. Ray explains “The best time to respond to a hurricane is before it happens. A relatively small investment of time and money now may prevent severe damage and disruption of life and business in the future. These communication recommendations are vital for managers to follow to mitigate the angst and uncertainty that comes with a natural disaster.”

Ward Sutton is currently the General Manager of Kent Country Club in Grand Rapids, MI. His monograph, Employer of Choice Principles at Private Clubs, provides strategies for building a motivated team, and practical tips for club executives striving to become employers of choice. He explains, “Employer of choice is a term that gets thrown around a lot, but its meaning can vary widely. For me, it’s about attracting and retaining staff by treating them with the same care and respect as members. Amenities attract employees, but relationships keep them. Building meaningful connections with staff, being engaged in their lives, and supporting their goals—whether they’re at the club or pursuing opportunities elsewhere—are critical. It’s not just about providing competitive compensation and benefits; it’s about creating a culture where people feel valued and part of something bigger than themselves.”