Senior Fitness & Wellness Program Director

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance bonuses

Health benefits

Professional development

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 in Stellenbosch seeks a Senior Fitness & Wellness Program Director to design, implement, and oversee all fitness and wellness offerings. You will lead a team, manage budgets, ensure evidence-based practices, and drive member engagement while shaping growth and reputation of the facility.

This hybrid role combines strategic planning with hands-on program delivery and requires advanced degrees, 6+ years of leadership, and professional certifications.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Kinesiology, Exercise Science, Sports Management, or related field. Master's preferred.
• Minimum 6 years progressive experience in fitness and wellness program management with leadership.
• Nationally recognized personal trainer certification (ACE/NASM/ACSM) and possibly additional certifications (group fitness, nutrition, yoga).
• Proven ability to design and implement fitness and wellness programs for diverse populations.
• Strong understanding of exercise physiology, anatomy, and program design.
• Excellent leadership and communication skills.
• Budget management and resource allocation experience.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a comprehensive strategy for all fitness and wellness programs, including group fitness, personal training, and workshops.
• Oversee recruitment, training, and performance management of staff.
• Ensure programs are evidence-based, safe, and aligned with best practices.
• Manage budget, equipment procurement, maintenance, and program costs.
• Drive member engagement and retention through innovative program design.
• Monitor industry trends and research new modalities for relevance.
• Collaborate with marketing to promote offerings and attract new members.
• Maintain records of participation, progress, and staff performance.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and legal regulations.
• Foster a positive, professional environment for staff and members.

Skills

Leadership

Budgeting

Staff development

Strategic planning

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Kinesiology / Exercise Science / Sports Management

Master's degree preferred

Tools

Fitness management software

Office software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious wellness and fitness center located in the heart of Stellenbosch, Western Cape, is seeking an experienced and visionary Senior Fitness & Wellness Program Director. This leadership role is responsible for designing, implementing, and overseeing all fitness and wellness programs, ensuring they meet the highest standards of quality, innovation, and client satisfaction. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of exercise science, nutrition, and holistic wellness, coupled with strong management and strategic planning capabilities. You will lead a team of fitness professionals, drive membership engagement, and contribute to the overall growth and reputation of the facility. This is an opportunity to shape the health and wellbeing of a vibrant community.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a comprehensive strategy for all fitness and wellness programs, including group fitness, personal training, and specialized wellness workshops.
• Oversee the recruitment, training, and performance management of fitness instructors, personal trainers, and wellness coaches.
• Ensure all programs are evidence-based, safe, effective, and aligned with industry best practices.
• Manage the fitness and wellness budget, including equipment procurement, maintenance, and program costs.
• Drive member engagement and retention through innovative program design and excellent service delivery.
• Monitor industry trends and research emerging fitness and wellness modalities to ensure program relevance and competitiveness.
• Collaborate with marketing teams to promote fitness and wellness offerings and attract new members.
• Maintain accurate records of program participation, client progress, and staff performance.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, and legal regulations.
• Foster a positive, motivating, and professional environment for both staff and members.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Kinesiology, Exercise Science, Sports Management, or a related field. A Master's degree is preferred.
• Minimum of 6 years of progressive experience in fitness and wellness program management, with demonstrated leadership experience.
• Nationally recognized certification as a Personal Trainer (e.g., ACE, NASM, ACSM) and potentially additional certifications in specialized areas (e.g., group fitness, nutrition, yoga).
• Proven ability to design and implement successful fitness and wellness programs for diverse populations.
• Strong understanding of exercise physiology, anatomy, and program design principles.
• Excellent leadership, communication, interpersonal, and motivational skills.
• Experience in budget management and resource allocation.
• Proficiency in fitness management software and standard office applications.
• A passion for health, fitness, and wellbeing, with a commitment to client success.
• Experience in the Stellenbosch, Western Cape area is an advantage.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, performance bonuses, and a comprehensive health and wellness benefits package.
• Access to state-of-the-art fitness facilities and opportunities for continuing education and professional development are provided.
• This hybrid role allows for strategic planning and administrative work alongside hands-on involvement in program delivery.

Join our client and make a significant impact on the health and wellbeing of the community.