Fitness & Recreation Manager

Overview

About The First Group Hospitality:

The First Group Hospitality is a Dubai-headquartered, full-service hospitality management company specialising in hotel operations, asset management, and F&B strategy. With a team of industry veterans and a proven track record, the company delivers tailored solutions that enhance efficiency, optimise revenue, and maximise asset value for investors and hotel owners. As a trusted third-party hotel management provider, The First Group Hospitality partners with leading global brands to drive operational excellence and long-term profitability, thanks to expertise spanning property performance optimisation, cost management, and guest experience enhancement. Beyond management, The First Group Hospitality develops and operates a dynamic portfolio of upscale hotels, residences, and award-winning restaurants, creating high-value hospitality assets that stand out in the market. For more information, visit tfghospitality.com

Job Description

Fitness & Recreation Operations

• Manage the day-to-day operations of fitness and recreation facilities, which may include fitness centers, swimming pools, sports facilities, recreational areas, and guest activities.
• Ensure all facilities, equipment, and activity areas are maintained to the highest standards of cleanliness, presentation, functionality, and safety.
• Develop and maintain operational procedures, activity schedules, opening and closing procedures, and service standards.
• Conduct regular inspections of facilities and equipment and coordinate maintenance requirements with relevant departments.
• Maintain adequate inventory of recreational equipment, fitness supplies, and operational materials.

Guest Experience & Programming

• Develop and implement engaging fitness, sports, wellness, and recreational programs based on guest profiles, preferences, and seasonal demand.
• Ensure fitness classes, personal training sessions, recreational activities, and other programs are delivered professionally and safely.
• Maintain a visible presence within the operation and actively engage with guests.
• Handle guest feedback and concerns promptly and professionally.
• Continuously identify opportunities to enhance the overall leisure and recreation experience.

Team Leadership

• Lead, supervise, coach, and develop Fitness & Recreation team members.
• Prepare duty schedules and ensure appropriate staffing levels according to operational requirements.
• Conduct departmental training and ensure employees understand service, safety, and operating standards.
• Monitor individual and team performance and provide regular coaching and feedback.
• Foster a positive, professional, and guest-focused working environment.

Commercial & Financial Performance

• Support the Director of Leisure & Recreation in preparing departmental budgets, forecasts, and operating plans.
• Monitor departmental expenses, productivity, and resource utilization.
• Identify opportunities to generate additional revenue through personal training, fitness programs, memberships, recreational activities, events, and other services, where applicable.
• Monitor participation levels, guest feedback, revenue, and other departmental KPIs to evaluate program effectiveness.

Health, Safety & Compliance

• Ensure strict compliance with all health, safety, hygiene, and operational requirements.
• Ensure fitness and recreational activities are conducted according to appropriate safety procedures and risk assessments.
• Maintain emergency response procedures and ensure the team is appropriately trained.
• Ensure required certifications, licenses, and training records for team members remain valid and up to date.
• Conduct regular checks of fitness and recreational equipment and immediately address potential safety concerns.

Desired Skill & Expertise

• Bachelor’s degree or diploma in Sports Management, Recreation Management, Physical Education, Fitness, Hospitality Management, or a related field.
• Minimum 5 years of relevant experience in fitness, recreation, sports, leisure, or wellness operations, preferably within a luxury hotel, resort, premium fitness club, or high-end leisure environment.
• Minimum 2 years of supervisory or management experience in a fitness, recreation, or leisure operation.
• Strong knowledge of fitness center operations, recreational programming, sports activities, and guest engagement.
• Experience developing activity schedules, fitness programs, and recreational experiences for diverse guest profiles.
• Good understanding of departmental budgeting, cost control, revenue generation, and performance management.
• Recognized fitness or personal training certification is highly advantageous.
• Valid First Aid, CPR, and AED certification is preferred.
• Lifeguard or water-safety certification is advantageous for properties with swimming pool operations.
• Previous experience within the UAE or GCC luxury hospitality market is an advantage.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English; additional languages are advantageous.