Marcie Mills: Leading with Empathy, Purpose and Courage

Marcie Mills, CCM is a Search & Consulting Executive with Kopplin Kuebler & Wallace, bringing more than 25 years of leadership experience in hospitality and private club management. Most recently, she served as General Manager and Chief Operating Officer of The Mirabel Club in Scottsdale, Arizona, a BoardRoom Distinguished Club with ELITE status.Known for her strategic mindset and commitment to professional development, Marcie has led major capital improvement initiatives, operational transformations and team-building efforts across multiple premier clubs. Her leadership emphasizes education, mentorship and the long-term stewardship required to sustain high-performing club environments.A longtime leader within the Club Management Association of America (CMAA), Marcie has served in chapter and national roles and is a frequent speaker on leadership and industry advancement. In 2025, she was honored by BoardRoom magazine with the Gary Player Award as Educator of the Year,reflecting her passion for developing the next generation of club leaders. Episode HighlightStep inside the leadership journey of Marcie Mills, CCM, as she reflects on the experiences, challenges and relationships that have shaped her approach to leading in today’s private club environment. Thoughtful, candid and deeply grounded in service, Marcie shares how early general manager roles, boarddynamics and real-world pressures influenced her understanding of responsibility, culture and trust.In this episode, Marcie explores the emotional dimension of leadership, the weight of decisions, the importance of empathy and self-awareness, and why culture is something leaders sense immediately upon entering a club. From the influence of mentors to the power of community and shared experience, sheoffers a reflective look at leadership as alignment rather than control, built on trust, purpose and authentic connection.What you'll learn from this conversationIn this thoughtful discussion, Marcie offers a perspective shaped by decades of experience and deep care for the industry. You’ll hear:Why leadership today requires emotional intelligence, adaptability and empathy more than everHow leading inside a club differs from advising from the outside, and what each teaches youWhy culture isn’t a buzzword, but something you can sense instantly when you enter a clubHow generational shifts among members, boards and staff are reshaping leadership expectationsThe value of mentorship, and why asking for help is a strength, not a weaknessLessons learned from navigating difficult board dynamics with authenticity and convictionWhat truly defines a great member experience beyond amenities and operationsWhy investing in people, not just compensation, is essential to long-term successHow empowering teams creates meaningful, memorable member momentsMarcie’s vision for leadership moving forward and why she believes the future is brightThroughout the conversation, Marcie reminds us that leadership can feel isolating, but it doesn’t have to be. Her story reinforces the power of connection, shared experience and the quiet strength that comes from knowing you’re not alone.