What are the key responsibilities of your job as Managing Director?

My main responsibility is to manage the Senior Management Team (SMT) and support them in the management of their own departments. I also sit as the main client lead for a number of our Association Management clients such as BSA, IPS and OHTA. A large portion of my workload is made up of looking into the future of Fitwise, which includes continually developing our strategy and business plan. I also support our Business Development Manager, Shelley, in securing new business and even deal with supplier negotiations to ensure that we are setting ourselves up for success.

What does a typical workday look like for you?

It is absolutely essential that I have a hot cup of Italian coffee from the cafetiere first thing in the morning! While sipping away at said coffee, I then take half an hour to sift through my inbox and respond to any urgent emails. I also make sure to check my LinkedIn account for any potential contacts – a bit of light market research! My diary generally fills up quite quickly with meetings, whether this be with clients, potential clients, or members of the SMT. Coming from a sales and business development background, I also spend time identifying new business, which involves working on tender submissions and responses. 

Although it isn’t an everyday task, I also oversee our accreditations for ISO9001 and Investors In People. We are incredibly proud to hold such accreditations, so their re-assessments are always handled with the upmost attention and care.

What aspect of your job do you find most challenging?

We are always eager to take on more opportunities within client support services and provide more charities and organisations with our expert secretariat services. There is also a very fine balance to be struck in terms of the needs and resources of the business, and profitability. The balance continually changes so it is of pivotal importance that myself and the SMT continually assess this.

What aspect of your job do you enjoy the most?

Well of course I enjoy signing off payroll, offering pay rises, hiring new people, and awarding nice big bonuses! On a more serious note, it has always been incredibly rewarding to watch people develop within the business. From hiring new staff, watching them blossom into their roles and provide our clients with great service. I enjoy seeing the collaboration that takes place between each department and seeing a final result that not only our clients are happy with, but that our team are proud of.

What do you think is the biggest misconception about your role?

Whilst I’m hugely proud to be the Managing Director of Fitwise, I still have operational roles to play. Whether this be helping onsite at events with registration, making sales or aiding in the recruitment process, I try do a bit of everything!

What has been your biggest career highlight at Fitwise?

When the pandemic hit in March 2020, Fitwise really could have hit crisis point! But seeing the business recover and go from strength to strength has been hugely rewarding.

If you could try any other job in the world for a day, which job would you pick?

Dom Perignon – Chef Du Cave (Cellar Master)

What do you define as success?

Success is about achieving and living the best life possible based on your values and aspirations, making as many people laugh and smile as possible in the process!

What is your favourite Fitwise memory?

Life on the Beach Themed Party at IPS 2010 in Bournemouth – dodgems, fairground rides and watching the two original directors (Blair & John) wrestling in padded sumo suits!

If you could give your past self one piece of advice, what would it be?

Don’t take yourself too seriously, or indeed others!