Fitness and Lifestyle Group has announced the appointment of General Manager for Fitness First Australia, David Aitchison, to oversee operation of the brand’s portfolio of 60 clubs.
Australia – 7th April 2017
The appointment follows the announcement in September 2016 that Fitness First Australia had joined the Fitness and Lifestyle Group which represents a unique portfolio of fitness and lifestyle brands including Goodlife Health Clubs, HYPOXI and Jetts Fitness.
Current Managing Director for Fitness First, Pete Manuel, will be stepping into a new role within Fitness and Lifestyle Group as Head of Corporate Partnerships and Business Development.
Over the past six years Pete Manuel has led Fitness First Australia through a phase of transformation, including the relaunch of the business in 2013. During his time at the helm, Mr Manuel has overseen a turnaround in the company’s financials, significant growth in member advocacy and employee engagement.
“I’m extremely proud of the work the team at Fitness First has achieved over my time with the business and I feel very positive about the road ahead,” said Mr Manuel. “I believe Fitness First is in a strong position to become the true growth engine within Fitness and Lifestyle Group.”
“Pete has worked hard to transform Fitness First in remarkable ways,” said Greg Oliver, CEO of Fitness and Lifestyle Group. “With thanks to Pete, Fitness First is in the strongest possible position to accelerate growth under the new ownership of Fitness and Lifestyle Group.”
With effect from 1 May 2017, David Aitchison will step in to lead Fitness First Australia during its next phase of commercial growth.
Welcoming Mr Aitchison’s appointment, Mr Oliver said: “David comes with a wealth of knowledge and experience, excellent leadership skills and a strong desire to accelerate the growth of Fitness First.”
Mr Aitchison brings with him over 19 years’ experience in the fitness industry in Australia, most recently overseeing operations for Goodlife Health Clubs in Western Australia, South Australia and Victoria.
“It’s an exciting time for the business. I’m looking forward to stepping into this new role and continuing to drive the success Fitness First has seen in recent years.” said Mr Aitchison.
For further media enquiries, contact:-
Emma Pearson 02 8281 3280 / 0421 429 584 / emma@ogilvyprhealth.com
Ashley Fitzgerald 02 8117 2338 / 0425 839 589 / ashleyfitzgerald@fitnessfirst.com.au
About Fitness First Australia
Everyday more than 40,000 members visit the 60 Fitness First clubs across Australia. Fitness First’s mission is to get more Australians on the journey to a more fearless and extraordinary life through fitness; constantly investing in its clubs, its people and right tools to help them get there. In 2014, Fitness First Australia was recognised as an ABA100 Winner for Employer of Choice in The Australian Business Awards. Find out more at www.fitnessfirst.com.au.
About Fitness and Lifestyle Group
Fitness and Lifestyle Group is a portfolio of health and fitness brands owned by Quadrant Private Equity. Quadrant acquired Goodlife Health Clubs in October 2016, which was followed by the acquisitions of Jetts Australia in November 2016 and Fitness First Australia in December 2016. The operations of these brands have been combined under the banner of Fitness and Lifestyle Group. Find out more at www.quadrantpe.com.au.