Job Title Operations Manager Department Operations Direct Reports Club / Centre Managers,/General Manager Location Multi-site (Regional Travel Required) Employment Type Full-Time, Permanent Industry Hospitality, Fitness & Wellness ROLE PURPOSEThe Area Operations Manager is a senior leadership role responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of multiple fitness, wellness, and hospitality facilities within a designated region. The role drives operational excellence, ensures consistent guest and member experiences, delivers financial targets, and develops high-performing site teams. The Area Operations Manager acts as the primary link between individual venue management and the regional or executive leadership team.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES1. Operational Leadership– Oversee daily operations across all sites within the portfolio, ensuring compliance with brand standards, health & safety regulations, and company policies.– Conduct regular site visits and operational audits to assess performance, identify improvement areas, and implement corrective actions.– Develop and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) across all venues.– Drive consistent, high-quality guest and member experiences across all locations.
2. Financial Performance & Commercial Management– Own the P&L for the area, driving revenue growth, managing costs, and achieving EBITDA targets.– Analyse monthly financial reports, KPIs, and membership data to identify trends and proactively address underperformance.– Develop and execute commercial strategies including membership sales, wellness programmes, personal training, and spa/F&B revenue where applicable.– Prepare and manage annual budgets and forecasts in collaboration with finance.
3. People Management & Development– Lead, coach, and develop a team of Site/Club Managers, fostering a culture of accountability, performance, and wellbeing.– Oversee recruitment, onboarding, and retention of key talent across all venues.– Conduct regular performance reviews and implement development plans for managers and key staff.– Identify training needs and collaborate with L&D to ensure teams are skilled, motivated, and aligned with brand values.
4. Guest & Member Experience– Champion a culture of exceptional member and guest service across all sites.– Monitor NPS scores, member satisfaction surveys, and online reviews, taking action to address feedback and improve ratings.– Resolve escalated member complaints and service failures promptly and professionally.– Implement initiatives to drive member retention, engagement, and community building.
5. Health, Safety & Compliance– Ensure all sites operate in full compliance with health, safety, and hygiene legislation, including fire safety, COSHH, and pool water quality standards where applicable.– Conduct regular H&S audits and ensure timely resolution of any identified risks or incidents.– Maintain up-to-date risk assessments, emergency procedures, and staff certifications across all venues.– Ensure compliance with data protection (GDPR) and relevant licensing requirements.
6. Strategic Planning & Projects– Contribute to the strategic planning process, providing operational insight and market intelligence.– Lead or support capital improvement projects, refurbishments, or new site openings within the area.– Identify and evaluate opportunities for operational efficiencies, technology adoption, and service innovation.– Collaborate cross-functionally with Sales, Marketing, HR, Finance, and Facilities teams.
QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCEEssential– Minimum 5 years of management experience in the fitness, wellness, leisure, or hospitality sector.– Proven track record of managing multiple sites or departments simultaneously.– Demonstrated success in achieving commercial and operational targets (revenue, membership, NPS).– Strong people leadership and people development experience.– Solid understanding of P&L management, budgeting, and financial analysis.– Knowledge of health, safety, and compliance requirements in leisure/hospitality environments.
Desirable– Degree or professional qualification in Business, Leisure Management, Sports Science, Hospitality, or related field.– Experience with spa, wellness, or premium hospitality operations.– Familiarity with membership management systems (e.g., Jonas, Legend, Mindbody, or similar).– Previous experience managing refurbishment projects or new venue openings.– First Aid at Work certification; Pool Plant Operator qualification (advantageous).
CORE COMPETENCIES Leadership & People Development Commercial Acumen Guest Experience Focus Strategic Thinking & Problem Solving Communication & Stakeholder Management Resilience & Adaptability Data-Driven Decision Making Passion for Health, Fitness & Wellness WHAT WE OFFER– Competitive salary and performance-based bonus scheme– Complimentary membership and wellness benefits across all group venues– Career development and progression opportunities within a growing organisation– Company vehicle or car allowance (role dependent)– Comprehensive health and wellbeing package– Collaborative, passion-driven team culture