Professional Leadership Programme

Participation in the programme will count towards BIGGA CPD and a future Professional Accreditation Scheme. This programme is also recognised by the Chartered Management Institute (CMI). Chartered Manager is a professional status which participants can undertake during the programme. There are options on how to achieve this status depending on current qualifications and experience.

Intake

Participation in the PLP will take 24 months to complete. A new intake of 24 BIGGA members would enrol each year.

Unit Overview

Leadership & Management

Effective leadership is more than just management - it builds on managerial skills. A good leader offers direction to people, gets them to share their vision for the business, and aims to create conditions for them to achieve momentous results.
This programme of intensive online sessions focusses on exploring and mastering those skills and knowledge that will comfortably take your leadership skills to the next level.

Participants will gain valuable insight into what drives individual behaviour, how to pinpoint the cultural style of your organisation and understand its inherent cultural strengths and weaknesses. Together, we will explore team dynamics in the context of the culture, look at functional and dysfunctional behaviour and how dysfunctional behaviour can be reshaped.

In these sessions, you will learn how easy it is for the leader to unwittingly set people up for failure and how this can be avoided. We will investigate motivation, reward and identify strategies to get the best from the team.

Professional Readiness

Professional Readiness equips learners with the personal and career development skills needed to thrive in modern golf club management.

This unit develops the knowledge and confidence to prepare impactful CVs and applications, perform successfully in interviews, and engage effectively in workplace inductions. Learners will explore strategies for career planning, professional presentation, and self-reflection to support continuous personal growth and progression.

By completing this unit, aspiring managers, Head Greenkeepers and Course Managers will build the foundations to secure employment, transition confidently into leadership roles, and contribute positively to the reputation and success of their organisations.

Communication & Organisation

Communication & Organisation develops the essential skills and knowledge required to plan, coordinate, and lead effectively within a golf club setting.

This unit covers the principles of planning and allocating work, managing meetings professionally, solving problems, and delivering projects to a high standard. Learners will also explore the use of management software and tools to streamline operations and improve productivity.

By completing this unit, aspiring leaders, Head Greenkeepers and Course Managers will be equipped to communicate confidently with colleagues, committees, and stakeholders, organise their teams efficiently, and ensure that work is carried out safely, collaboratively, and in line with club objectives.

Coaching & Mentoring

Coaching & Mentoring provides learners with the tools and techniques to support the development of individuals and teams within a golf club environment. The unit explores the purpose and benefits of coaching and mentoring, introduces key models and methods, and develops the communication and interpersonal skills required to guide others effectively. Learners will gain a deep understanding of how to set SMART targets, deliver and receive feedback constructively, and apply structured coaching conversations to drive performance and motivation. By completing this unit, aspiring leaders, Head Greenkeepers and Course Managers will be able to foster a culture of continuous improvement, trust, and personal growth across their teams.

Financial Management

Financial Management provides learners with the knowledge and confidence to oversee budgets, control costs, and make informed financial decisions that support the success and sustainability of a golf club. This unit covers essential areas including effective negotiation techniques, supplier relationship management, and pitching persuasive proposals to stakeholders. Learners will develop a strong understanding of financial governance and resource allocation, gaining the skills to balance operational needs with strategic priorities. By completing this unit, aspiring leaders, Head Greenkeepers and Course Managers will be prepared to contribute proactively to the financial health of their organisation and demonstrate accountability and value in their leadership roles.

Golf Club Operations

Golf Club Operations gives learners a comprehensive understanding of how all departments and functions work together to deliver an outstanding golf club experience. This unit explores the structure and governance of golf clubs, the roles of the General Manager and Golf Professional, and the operational importance of areas such as food and beverage services. Learners will develop insights into how strategic planning, financial oversight, customer experience, and interdepartmental collaboration underpin the success of the club. By completing this unit, aspiring leaders, Head Greenkeepers and Course Managers will be able to align their own team’s work with the broader objectives of the organisation, contribute effectively to cross-functional initiatives, and engage confidently with committees, managers, and stakeholders.

Mental Health First Aid

Mental Health First Aid is a one-day training course designed to give participants the knowledge, awareness, and practical skills to recognise the signs of mental health challenges in themselves and others. The course covers common mental health conditions, how to approach sensitive conversations, and the principles of offering initial support while maintaining appropriate boundaries. Learners will explore techniques for reducing stigma, promoting positive mental wellbeing, and signposting colleagues to professional help and resources. By completing this course, greenkeeping professionals and managers will be better equipped to foster a supportive, understanding workplace culture and contribute to the overall health and resilience of their teams.

Individual Leadership (BIGGA)

Individual Leadership focuses on developing the learner’s professional identity, industry engagement, and leadership contribution through active participation in the wider BIGGA community. Over the two-year programme, learners will maintain continuous BIGGA membership, complete structured CPD activities, and demonstrate their commitment to personal growth and professional standards. This unit requires learners to engage with BIGGA through section and regional events and initiatives. Learners will also contribute to industry knowledge by submitting an article to the regional newsletter. Completion of this unit, alongside all other modules, ensures that learners graduate with the practical experience, professional credibility, and networks needed to lead confidently and make a positive impact in the greenkeeping profession.

Presentation Skills

Presentation Skills develops the knowledge and confidence needed to prepare and deliver clear, engaging, and professional presentations within a golf club environment. Drawing on principles from ILM Level 4 standards, this unit explores how to plan structured briefings, select appropriate visual aids, and adapt content to meet the needs of different audiences, including colleagues, committees, and external stakeholders. Learners will practise techniques for managing nerves, projecting credibility, and encouraging audience interaction. They will also learn how to evaluate the effectiveness of their presentations and reflect on feedback to improve future performance. By completing this unit, Head Greenkeepers and Course Managers will be equipped to communicate ideas persuasively, represent their organisation professionally, and deliver impactful presentations that inform, inspire, and influence others.