Director of Fitness and Wellness Programs

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 1,100,000 - 1,900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement annuity

Discounts on wellness services

Complimentary facility access

Job summary

Placements24 in Durban seeks an experienced Director of Fitness and Wellness Programs to shape strategy, lead a team of instructors and wellness coordinators, and oversee facilities, safety, and equipment. You will drive program development and ensure excellence in service delivery for members and staff.

You will develop programs aligned with organizational goals, manage budgets, drive member engagement, and stay current with exercise science and preventative health.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in kinesiology, exercise science, public health, or a related field.
• 8+ years of progressive fitness and wellness management experience, incl. 4+ years in a senior role.
• Proven ability to develop programs, manage operations, and supervise staff.
• Certification from ACE or ACSM is required.
• Based in or able to commute to Durban regularly.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and evaluate comprehensive fitness and wellness programs aligned with goals and market trends.
• Lead, mentor, and manage a team of fitness instructors, personal trainers, and wellness coordinators.
• Oversee facilities operations, safety, cleanliness, and equipment maintenance.
• Create and manage the annual budget for the fitness and wellness department.
• Develop marketing strategies to drive membership growth and program participation.
• Stay abreast of research in exercise science, nutrition, and preventative health.
• Collaborate with departments to integrate wellness initiatives across the organization.
• Conduct regular performance reviews and provide ongoing staff development.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and industry regulations.

Skills

Leadership

Budget management

Program development

Staff supervision

Communication

Strategic thinking

Data analysis

Education

Master's degree in Kinesiology, Exercise Science, Public Health, or a related field

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading health and fitness organization with a significant presence in Durban, is looking for an experienced and visionary Director of Fitness and Wellness Programs. This executive role is responsible for the strategic development, implementation, and management of all fitness and wellness initiatives across our facilities. You will lead a team of fitness professionals, drive innovation in program design, and ensure the highest standards of service delivery. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of exercise science, health promotion, and the ability to manage large-scale wellness programs. This is an exceptional opportunity to shape the future of health and wellness within Durban and positively impact the community. We are looking for a leader who can inspire and motivate both staff and members in the Durban area.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and evaluate comprehensive fitness and wellness programs aligned with organizational goals and market trends.
• Lead, mentor, and manage a team of fitness instructors, personal trainers, and wellness coordinators.
• Oversee the operational aspects of fitness facilities, ensuring safety, cleanliness, and equipment maintenance.
• Create and manage the annual budget for the fitness and wellness department, ensuring financial targets are met.
• Develop and execute marketing and promotional strategies to drive membership growth and program participation.
• Stay abreast of the latest research and best practices in exercise science, nutrition, and preventative health.
• Collaborate with other departments to integrate wellness initiatives across the organization.
• Conduct regular performance reviews and provide ongoing training and development for staff in Durban.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, and industry regulations.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Kinesiology, Exercise Science, Public Health, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in fitness and wellness management, with at least 4 years in a senior leadership role.
• Demonstrated experience in program development, operational management, and staff supervision.
• Strong understanding of exercise physiology, biomechanics, and nutritional science.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proven ability to manage budgets and financial performance.
• Certification from a recognized fitness industry body (e.g., ACE, ACSM) is required.
• Experience with health and wellness technology and data analysis is advantageous.
• Must be based in or able to commute to Durban regularly.

Benefits

• An attractive salary package.
• Comprehensive health insurance.
• A retirement annuity.
• Performance-based incentives.
• Complimentary access to fitness facilities.
• Discounts on wellness services.
• Opportunities for professional growth and continuous education.