2026 Club Managers Training and Development Forum

2 June 2026

The Club Managers Training and Development Forum this July is shaping up as a practical, relevant and genuinely valuable opportunity for club managers and a smart investment for club committees.

From workforce pressures and regulatory expectations through to shifting member needs and commercial realities, the demands on our managers continue to increase. Supporting their development is no longer a 'nice to have', it is essential.

This year's agenda focuses on the fundamentals that matter: people, compliance, revenue and leadership. It's practical, relevant and usable. From navigating the future of gaming, to tackling recruitment and retention in a tight labour market, through to strengthening leadership capability and understanding alcohol harm prevention expectations, the content reflects the realities of running a club today. It is rounded out with a look at food, cost controls and menu engineering.

Beyond the formal sessions, there is real value in bringing managers together. Forums like this create space to share experiences, challenge thinking and learn from peers facing the same issues.

Tuesday night features the Forum Dinner. It's a chance to unwind, take a load off and have a bit of fun. With a 1930s/art deco theme and a few surprises in store, attendees are encouraged to dress the part and enjoy the occasion.

Day two reflects the importance of connection and sector alignment. It begins with an update on Clubs New Zealand's advocacy work, before moving into the Club Managers Group meeting and advisory group elections.

Formalities wrap by midday, recognising the demands on people's time. For those able to stay on, there's an opportunity to continue the conversation in a more informal setting, with an optional visit hosted by Mission Estate alongside visits to local clubs, an ideal way to see different operations, share ideas and strengthen networks.

Supporting your managers attendance

Training and development comes with a cost: registration, travel, time away from the club. Those are all very real considerations, but so is the cost of standing still.

The operating environment for clubs is changing quickly. Expectations are higher, margins are tighter and competition for both staff and managers is stronger than ever. In that context, investing in your manager's development is one of the most practical steps a committee can take to strengthen its club.

Click here for more information on the Club Managers Training and Development Forum, including the agenda and registration details.