Exercise Experience Manager

Virgin Active South Africa (Pty) Ltd; Wes-Kaap; On-site; ZAR 400,000 - 500,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading fitness organization in South Africa seeks an Exercise Experience Manager to create engaging wellness communities and manage a dynamic team of fitness professionals. Your role will involve recruitment, team management, and delivering exceptional group exercise experiences. Candidates must possess a matric qualification and a recognized fitness qualification, along with significant industry experience. Join us in making wellness a vibrant lifestyle!

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of experience in the Fitness Industry.
• 3 years managing exercise experiences in a health club setting.
• Experience teaching various Group Exercise classes.

Responsibilities

• Curate a team of passionate fitness professionals.
• Develop and nurture a team of instructors.
• Lead by example in delivering memorable classes.
• Manage the group exercise timetable effectively.

Skills

Leadership skills

Team collaboration

Communication skills

Adaptability

Organizational skills

High emotional intelligence

Education

Matric qualification

Recognized Fitness Qualification

Job description

Your Purpose...

• The Exercise Experience Manager is responsible for building dynamic, inclusive communities that inspire and support members in achieving their wellness goals. You will guide members in finding suitable products, services, and fitness groups, creating engaging, personalized experiences that promote ongoing participation and embody the adventurous Virgin spirit. The goal is to make wellness a vibrant social lifestyle, not just a gym activity.

Your Duties and Responsibilities...

• Recruitment, Onboarding & Retention: Curate a team of passionate fitness professionals by scouting, attracting, and recruiting talented Fitness and Group Exercise Instructors. Use the Online Hiring Assessment to measure success. Guide new hires through induction covering conduct, studio setup, sound systems, and salary procedures.
• Team Management & Development: Develop and nurture a team of instructors aligned with club FTE and budget. Provide coaching, feedback, and growth opportunities, ensuring ongoing motivation. Promote CPD training to keep the team updated with the latest fitness standards and innovations.
• Community Building & Instructor Support: Foster a sense of belonging among instructors through effective communication. Manage CPD points and development scheduling. Support instructors in class preparation and member engagement using the STOP, LOOK & LISTEN strategy.
• Delivering Exceptional Group Exercise Experiences: Lead by example in delivering memorable classes. Maintain high standards of cleanliness, organization, and studio functionality. Oversee class schedules and manage last-minute changes effectively.
• Group Exercise Focus: Manage the group exercise timetable to ensure high-energy, engaging classes. Organize events like FITFEST and DJ nights to enhance participation. Use data to optimize class offerings and instructor performance.
• Member Social Wellness: Provide comprehensive inductions and promote all club offerings. Manage the GEX Invitation system to increase class participation and app engagement, and organize engaging events and demos.
• Operational Excellence: Ensure all exercise spaces are functional and inspiring. Maintain equipment, sound systems, and uphold safety standards. Optimize staffing schedules for maximum engagement.
• Marketing & Community Building: Execute in-club marketing campaigns to promote classes and training. Use digital and in-club channels to keep members engaged and attract new ones.
• Data Analysis & Performance Tracking: Monitor attendance and engagement metrics. Use insights to improve class offerings and fill gaps, ensuring high participation and satisfaction.

Our Minimum Requirements...

• Matric qualification
• A Recognized Fitness Qualification
• At least 5 years of experience in the Fitness Industry
• Minimum 3 years managing exercise experiences in a health club or similar setting
• 2-3 years managing people/teams
• Exceptional leadership skills
• Experience teaching various Group Exercise classes
• Passion for the wellness industry
• Strong team player and collaborator
• Alignment with VA brand values

Preferred Qualifications and Skills...

• Experience in health or wellness clubs
• Management experience
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills
• Adaptability to fast-paced environments
• Curiosity and willingness to learn
• Winning mentality and motivation for success
• Commitment to making a difference
• Growth mindset
• Ability to work independently
• Trustworthiness and integrity
• Drive to create memorable member moments
• Decision-making and ownership skills
• Action-oriented approach

Additional Desired Skills...

• Organizational and coordination skills
• Facilitation and presentation skills
• Broader wellness knowledge
• Decisiveness and agility
• Collaboration skills
• High emotional intelligence (EQ)