Frilford Heath Golf Club, Oxfordshire’s 54-hole championship golf estate, has announced the appointment of Simon Fowler, PGA Professional and Certified Club Manager (CCM), who joins the club as its new Head of Operations.
Fowler brings more than 30 years’ experience across the golf and hospitality industries, having held senior roles at clubs including Royal Mid-Surrey, Merrist Wood, Milford, and Sherfield Oaks. Most recently, he served as House Manager at West Court Retreat Hotel.
Throughout his career, Fowler has developed a deep understanding of what makes a successful club and, most importantly, what shapes an outstanding member experience. Alongside Frilford Heath’s Managing Director, Russell Stebbings, the venue now boasts two senior leaders holding Certified Club Manager (CCM) status.
Awarded by the Club Management Association of Europe (CMAE), the Certified Club Manager (CCM) designation is widely regarded as the international benchmark and hallmark of professionalism in club management.
To attain the credential, managers must demonstrate comprehensive expertise across 10 core competencies, ranging from club governance and financial management to golf operations and food and beverage services.
Boasting two CCM-accredited professionals on the executive team places Frilford Heath within an elite echelon of clubs across the UK and Europe.
Fowler commented: “I am looking forward to playing my part in maintaining and developing high standards at Frilford Heath. Having worked across both golf operations and luxury hospitality, I recognise the dedication required to deliver a premier experience across a 54-hole facility of this scale. It is an exciting time to join the club, and I look forward to working closely with Russell, the board, and the wider team to enhance our day-to-day operations and continually elevate the experience for our members and guests.”
Russell Stebbings, Managing Director, added: “We are thrilled to welcome Simon to Frilford Heath. His breadth of operational knowledge, combined with his proven leadership and shared commitment to professional standards, makes him a natural fit for our team. Operating a 54-hole championship venue demands operational excellence across every touchpoint, and having two CCM-qualified managers at the helm underlines our long-term commitment to best-in-class management and member satisfaction.”
