"Golf industry shows signs of growth"

Golf recruitment experts, Colt Mackenzie McNair, post record first quarter trading results and report clear evidence the EMEA golf industry is emerging from the economic challenges of last year. CMM, golf's premier executive recruitment specialist, has reported clear signs the golf industry is now emerging from the economic challenges of 2009 by posting record trading last month.

As a clear indicator of the growing business confidence across Europe and the Middle East, Colt Mackenzie McNair has witnessed a significant increase in the number of businesses looking to hire top-flight professionals into key management positions across all facets of the golf industry.

Commenting on this positive news, Richard Wood, director of Colt Mackenzie McNair, said: "Whereas 2009 saw businesses reducing headcount to counter the challenges of reduced cash flow, 2010 has started in a different vein, seeing organisations looking to recruit senior positions across all facets of the business.

"It is also interesting to note that more clubs and resorts are beginning to use our services to recruit the best executives through a targeted and strategic recruitment approach as opposed to the old way of advertising and personal networking. As demand picks up it becomes increasingly important to have a clear and effective recruitment strategy to identify the most appropriate individuals for each role.

"CMM has built a strong reputation for delivering high-calibre business professionals to the global golf industry and we are always the first to recognise any significant changes in the market. During the first three months of this year, it has been hugely encouraging to witness an increase in business from our existing clients, particularly multi-site golf operators, who have recognised how recruiting properly can lead to exceptional results."

Signs are very positive for this trend to continue into the next quarter of 2010, as Colt Mackenzie McNair reports a strong pipeline of executive search assignments and also witnesses a growing appetite and confidence from potential candidates to move roles.

Richard added: "It has been clear that potential candidates had a ‘keep your head down' attitude during 2009. That is understandable considering the pressures businesses came under to reduce headcount, but we are now seeing evidence this trend has changed and high-calibre professionals are, once again, looking to fast-track their careers."

This positive mindset change is reinforced by Colt Mackenzie McNair's forthcoming ‘Golf Salary & Benefits Study 2010', a comprehensive study produced in association with IFM Sports Marketing Surveys, that will provide golf industry professionals with the most detailed remuneration, benefits and staff development information within the golf industry.

"The findings of the report are currently being evaluated, but it's quite clear there is renewed optimism in the golf industry and that has to be positive news for everyone," added Richard.

For more information, please visit:
+ The Colt Mackenzie McNair Website
+ Learn more about CMM as an EGCOA Business Partner