Volunteer Spotlight: Lisa Brown, CCM

Lisa Brown, CCM, is a highly respected leader in the private club industry, bringing more than 20 years of professional experience and over 25 years of membership with the Club Management Association of Canada (CMAC). Her career has been shaped by progressive leadership roles at several of the Greater Toronto Area’s most prestigious clubs, including Oakdale Golf and Country Club and Rosedale Golf Club, where she developed a strong foundation in operational excellence, capital project delivery, and member service.

Professional Background & Club Leadership

Lisa currently serves as General Manager of St. Catharines Golf & Country Club, Niagara’s premier private club, where she leads all aspects of club operations including golf, curling, fitness, dining, and social programming. She is currently overseeing a $7.5 million clubhouse renovation, building on her extensive experience managing large-scale capital projects, including the complete teardown and rebuild of Rosedale’s clubhouse in 2015.

During her tenure at St. Catharines, Lisa has progressed through multiple leadership roles, developing a deep understanding of the club’s culture, membership, and operational priorities. Under her leadership, the Club celebrated its 125th anniversary in 2024 and successfully hosted the World Junior Girls Golf Tournament in 2025—both significant milestones in its history.

Lisa’s leadership style is defined by professionalism, approachability, and a strong commitment to delivering an exceptional member experience. She holds the Certified Club Manager (CCM) designation—earned by a select group of professionals in Canada—and is among only 16 women in the country to achieve this credential. She is currently pursuing her Certified Chief Executive (CCE) designation as part of her ongoing commitment to professional growth.

CMAC Ontario Branch Involvement

Lisa is an active leader within the CMAC Ontario Branch, serving on the Board of Directors as Professional Pathways Vice Chair. In this role, she supports initiatives focused on career development, mentorship, and engagement opportunities for club management professionals at all stages of their careers.

Her long-standing involvement with CMAC reflects her belief in the importance of collaboration, education, and advancing the profession. She is deeply committed to strengthening pathways into club management and supporting the development of future industry leaders.

Industry Impact & Recognition

Throughout her career, Lisa has been widely recognized for her integrity, operational expertise, and dedication to service. She has played an integral role in major capital projects and milestone achievements at leading private clubs, while also mentoring emerging professionals within the industry.

Lisa is particularly passionate about supporting and advancing women in private club management. Through her leadership at St. Catharines Golf & Country Club and her volunteer work with CMAC Ontario, she continues to make a meaningful and lasting impact on both her club and the broader club management community.