Michael McCarthy


ECM, CMAA Fellow

  • 1-833-KKW-PCGA (559-7242) x.735


Professional Background

Michael McCarthy is an award-winning private Club executive and nationally respected authority on Club governance, Board leadership, and executive alignment. One of only 32 Fellows of the Club Management Association of America (CMAA), Michael brings more than 35 years of experience guiding Boards through complex governance, cultural, and leadership challenges.

Since 2006, Michael has served as Chief Executive Officer of Addison Reserve Country Club, where, under his leadership, the Club has achieved national and international recognition for excellence earning designation as the #4 Platinum Club in the United States and #21 Platinum Club in the world. Previously, he served eight years as CEO of BallenIsles Country Club. Throughout his career, Michael has worked closely with Boards during periods of transition, growth, crisis, and long-term strategic planning.

Governance & Board Leadership Expertise
  • Governance leadership for $250+ million in capital infrastructure improvements, including multi-phase Clubhouse renovations, sports and wellness complexes, and golf course renovations
  • Board governance best practices and fiduciary accountability
  • Governance vs. management role clarity
  • Board–CEO alignment, evaluation, and succession
  • Risk oversight, crisis preparedness, and post-event governance reviewearch & Board Advisory Expertise
National Industry Leadership
  • Chairman, National Club Association
  • Chairman, Seminole Region Charity Golf Tournament
  • Former Director, National Board, CMAA
  • Florida Chapter CMAA Board Member and Chapter President
  • Club Executive of the Year (2009) — Club Management Association of America (CMAA)
  • Advisory roles with Platinum Clubs of America, Distinguished Clubs, and ClubsHelp
Advisory Philosophy

Michael is known for his neutral, non-political, and non-adversarial approach. He does not manage operations or replace existing advisors. Instead, he serves as a trusted conduit between Boards and executive leadership—helping Boards make better decisions, reduce risk, and lead with clarity, confidence, and unity.