What began as a single benchmarking platform has evolved into the private club industry's leading source of data-driven insight, drawing financial, operational, and compensation data from more than 1,000 clubs across North America. In 2013, that reach expanded to Australia. Nearly a decade later, Club Benchmarking EMEA was established, launching in Ireland and marking the beginning of a new chapter across Europe.
Today, Club Benchmarking EMEA maintains data from nearly 250 clubs throughout the UK and Ireland, with participation continuing to grow. Led by Directors James Burns and John McCormack, both former club general managers with decades of hands-on leadership experience, the EMEA team brings the same analytical rigor and practical perspective that transformed decision-making for clubs in North America.
Through in-depth analysis of industry data, Club Benchmarking EMEA helps clubs better understand key business drivers, from the true financial performance of food and beverage operations to the critical KPIs that support long-term sustainability and success. The result is a more informed, strategic conversation in club boardrooms and management offices alike.
Club Benchmarking EMEA is committed to fostering healthier clubs, empowering managers, and supporting stronger governance, one fact-based decision at a time.
John McCormack, FCCA, CCM – Director
John joined Club Benchmarking after nearly 20 years as General Manager of Castle Golf Club in Ireland. A qualified accountant, he has held leadership roles in finance, hospitality, and club management, and served as President of both the Club Managers Association of Europe and the Irish Golf & Club Managers Association.
James Burns, CCM – Director
James joined Club Benchmarking EMEA in 2022 after 13 years as General Manager of Milltown Golf Club in Dublin. He is a former President of the Club Management Association of Europe & Middle East (CMAE) and has held leadership roles with CMAE, CMAA, and the Irish Golf & Club Managers Association. James earned his Certified Club Manager (CCM) designation in 2012 and is recognized for his commitment to leadership and professional development in the club industry.
John McCormack - FCCA, CCM
jmccormack@clubbenchmarking.eu
+353 879122395
James Burns, CCM
jburns@clubbenchmarking.eu
+353 873275977
Leadership teams across the country rely on the Club Benchmarking VISTA platform to accurately assess and benchmark the financial and operational health of their clubs. Our proven Financial Insight ModelTM and Key Performance Indicators are the cornerstones of a common industry framework for understanding club finance.
Club Benchmarking Education & Advisory Services help clubs gain control of their futures by leveraging fact-based data and proven insight. Historically, clubs have operated with a narrow focus, struggling from one year to the next and monitoring progress through last month’s income statement against budgets. Sustainable success requires a more strategic, forward-looking view centered on stewardship of assets. That's where Club Benchmarking comes in.
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