Growing up in a small town in Southwestern Ontario, my formative years were deeply influenced by sports and various activities. From a young age, I found myself immersed in a vibrant sporting culture that played a pivotal role in shaping my upbringing. Countless evenings were spent playing games of golf, hockey, baseball, and any other sport my friends and I could play after school. These experiences fostered a deep passion for competition, teamwork, and the pursuit of excellence. At the time, I was unaware that there existed opportunities that could combine my love for sports with the traditional business world. It wasn't until I was introduced to GGA through my university's job portal that I realized it was possible.

GGA’s innovative approach to private and leisure club strategy opened my eyes to the vast potential within this industry. The combination of business acumen, strategic thinking, and a profound understanding of the private club landscape presented an irresistible opportunity. It was a perfect match that aligned with my interests and offered a path to contribute meaningfully to the private club world.

Developing the foundation for business strategy

Prior to joining GGA, I spent five years pursuing a double degree at Wilfrid Laurier University in Waterloo, Ontario. Immersed in a rigorous academic environment, I completed degrees in both business and financial mathematics. The dual nature of this program proved to be a constant source of challenge and growth, fostering the development of crucial skills that continue to serve me well in my career at GGA. Throughout my studies, I honed my problem-solving abilities, sharpened my time management skills, and cultivated a strong sense of organization—all of which have been instrumental in navigating the dynamic landscape of my current role.

The combination of business and financial mathematics has granted me a unique perspective in managing complex business situations. Equipped with a comprehensive understanding of financial implications, I approach decision-making with an acute awareness of both operational and financial considerations. This integrated knowledge allows me to analyze multifaceted scenarios and make informed judgments that align with broader organizational goals.

During my time in university, I spent multiple internships at BDO, where I served as a junior consultant in its Risk Advisory practice. These internships played a pivotal role in establishing a strong foundation for my consulting career. Not only did I learn how to foster and maintain client relationships, but I also acquired invaluable expertise in analyzing operating procedures, conducting thorough market research, and aligning business strategies with industry best practices. These experiences were critical for refining my analytical prowess, developing my communication skills, and solidifying my understanding of the consultancy landscape.

Shift to the private club industry

Since joining GGA as an Associate, I have had the opportunity to work on a variety of engagements, each presenting unique opportunities for growth and learning. From contributing to a strategic growth plan for a prominent multi-course operator to conducting feasibility studies for luxury residential and resort communities to delving into financial modeling for a notable sporting club, I have immersed myself in a multitude of projects. Embracing each engagement as a chance to expand my knowledge and expertise has been integral to my personal and professional development.

What truly energizes me is the ability to leverage my expanding technical acumen, complemented by my business and finance background, to deliver robust solutions to our clients. I take great pride in being part of a forward-thinking organization. The collaborative environment and the wealth of knowledge within our team have provided invaluable support, enabling me to grasp the intricacies of the private club landscape. I am eager to continue honing my understanding and making meaningful contributions to this evolving industry.

More about me

Beyond my professional pursuits, I enjoy reconnecting with my roots and maintaining an active lifestyle. In sync with the emerging trend, I have developed a newfound interest in pickleball, embracing the physical and social aspects of this engaging sport. Additionally, as a Toronto Maple Leafs fan, I find both joy and heartbreak (especially this year) in passionately cheering for my team.

Overall, my journey in the private club industry has been one of continuous growth, both personally and professionally. Through collaboration, ongoing learning, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, I am excited to contribute to the success of GGA and make a positive impact within the private club landscape.

Tyler Macpherson is an Associate at GGA Partners. He can be reached at tyler.macpherson@ggapartners.com.