Fitness & Recreation Assistant Manager

The First Group Hospitality; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 180,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

The First Group Hospitality in the UAE is seeking an experienced Fitness & Recreation Operations professional to oversee daily operations, supervise staff, and uphold luxury standards across fitness centers, pools, and recreation spaces. The role emphasizes guest engagement and safe, high-quality programmes for diverse profiles.

You will design and coordinate fitness classes, personal training offerings, events, and guest activities; lead training and development; monitor safety, inventory, and

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of fitness/recreation operations experience.
• 1–2 years of supervisory or team-leadership experience.
• Knowledge of fitness center operations and guest service.
• Experience coordinating fitness classes, activities or events is advantageous.
• Fitness or personal training certification is advantageous.
• Valid First Aid, CPR, and AED is preferred.
• Lifeguard or water-safety certification is advantageous.
• Experience in UAE/GCC luxury hospitality market is a plus.
• Strong English communication skills; additional languages are beneficial.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day operation of fitness and recreation facilities.
• Supervise fitness centers, pools, and recreation areas.
• Ensure facilities and equipment meet luxury standards and safety rules.
• Assist with activity schedules, rosters, and departmental procedures.
• Monitor supplies and maintain inventory levels.
• Engage guests and develop engaging fitness, sports, wellness activities.
• Lead and train the Fitness & Recreation team; support staffing needs.
• Coordinate programs to drive participation and guest satisfaction.

Skills

Guest service

Operations supervision

Team leadership

Safety procedures

Training & development

English proficiency

Education

Diploma or Bachelor's in Sports Management

Job description

Overview

About The First Group Hospitality:

The First Group Hospitality is a Dubai-headquartered, full-service hospitality management company specialising in hotel operations, asset management, and F&B strategy. With a team of industry veterans and a proven track record, the company delivers tailored solutions that enhance efficiency, optimise revenue, and maximise asset value for investors and hotel owners. As a trusted third-party hotel management provider, The First Group Hospitality partners with leading global brands to drive operational excellence and long-term profitability, thanks to expertise spanning property performance optimisation, cost management, and guest experience enhancement. Beyond management, The First Group Hospitality develops and operates a dynamic portfolio of upscale hotels, residences, and award-winning restaurants, creating high-value hospitality assets that stand out in the market. For more information, visit tfghospitality.com

Job Description

itness & Recreation Operations

• Support the Fitness & Recreation Manager in the day-to-day operation of fitness and recreational facilities.
• Supervise fitness centers, swimming pools, sports and recreation areas, and other leisure facilities as applicable.
• Ensure all facilities, equipment, and activity areas are clean, organized, safe, and maintained to the required luxury hospitality standards.
• Conduct regular operational and safety inspections and coordinate maintenance requirements with relevant departments.
• Assist with the preparation of activity schedules, duty rosters, operational checklists, and departmental procedures.
• Monitor equipment and supplies and ensure appropriate inventory levels are maintained.

Guest Experience & Activities

• Maintain a visible presence within fitness and recreation areas and actively engage with guests.
• Assist in developing and delivering engaging fitness, sports, wellness, and recreational activities suitable for different guest profiles.
• Ensure all activities and fitness programs are conducted professionally, safely, and according to established standards.
• Provide guests with information and recommendations regarding available facilities, activities, and programs.
• Handle guest feedback and concerns professionally and upscale matters when necessary.
• Identify opportunities to personalise and enhance the overall guest experience.

Team Supervision & Development

• Supervise Fitness & Recreation team members during daily operations and ensure consistent service delivery.
• Conduct daily briefings and communicate operational requirements, guest information, and departmental priorities.
• Support the training, coaching, and development of team members.
• Monitor employee performance and provide ongoing guidance and feedback.
• Assist with duty schedules and ensure appropriate staffing levels based on operational requirements.
• Lead the department in the absence of the Fitness & Recreation Manager when required.

Commercial & Administrative Support

• Support departmental initiatives to increase participation and generate revenue through personal training, fitness programs, memberships, recreational activities, events, and other services, where applicable.
• Assist in monitoring departmental expenses, inventory, and resource utilization.
• Maintain accurate operational records, activity reports, attendance records, and other departmental documentation.
• Monitor guest participation and feedback to help evaluate the effectiveness of programs and activities.

Health, Safety & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with all applicable health, safety, hygiene, and operational standards.
• Monitor fitness and recreational activities to ensure appropriate safety procedures are followed.
• Conduct routine inspections of equipment and facilities and report potential hazards or maintenance concerns immediately.
• Support emergency response procedures and ensure team members understand their responsibilities.
• Ensure relevant employee certifications and training requirements are maintained and up to date.

Desired Skill & Expertise

• Diploma or bachelor’s degree in Sports Management, Recreation Management, Physical Education, Fitness, Hospitality Management, or a related field is preferred.
• Minimum 3-5 years of relevant experience in fitness, recreation, sports, leisure, or wellness operations, preferably within a luxury hotel, resort, premium fitness club, or high-end leisure environment.
• At least 1-2 years of supervisory or team-leadership experience within fitness, recreation, or leisure operations.
• Good knowledge of fitness center operations, recreational programming, sports activities, and guest service.
• Experience coordinating fitness classes, recreational activities, events, or guest programs is advantageous.
• Recognized fitness or personal training certification is highly advantageous.
• Valid First Aid, CPR, and AED certification is preferred.
• Lifeguard or water-safety certification is advantageous for operations involving swimming pools or aquatic activities.
• Previous experience within the UAE or GCC luxury hospitality market is an advantage.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills in English; additional languages are advantageous.