Recreation Manager jobs

The First Group Hospitality, an exclusive private members’ club in Abu Dhabi, is seeking a Fitness & Recreation Manager.

The individual will provide leadership and strategic direction across the club’s fitness and recreation operations. The role will be responsible for delivering an exceptional member experience, maintaining high operational standards and ensuring the department performs efficiently, safely and in line with the club’s standards.

Key responsibilities include:

• Overseeing the full day-to-day operation of the fitness and recreation facilities.

• Developing and implementing fitness, wellness and recreational programs that support member engagement.

• Leading, supervising and developing the fitness and recreation team.

• Managing staffing, scheduling, performance standards and departmental training.

• Ensuring all facilities, equipment, classes and activities comply with health and safety requirements.

• Maintaining a consistently high level of service across all member touchpoints.

• Building strong relationships with members and responding effectively to feedback and requests.

• Planning and coordinating fitness classes, recreational activities, events and special programs.

• Monitoring departmental performance, participation levels, member feedback and service quality.

• Managing departmental budgets, purchasing, suppliers and equipment requirements.

• Reviewing operational procedures and identifying opportunities for improvement.

• Working closely with other departments to support the overall member experience.

• Preparing regular operational and performance reports for senior management.

• Female candidate preferred.
• Strong background in fitness, wellness, leisure or recreation operations.
• Proven experience managing fitness or recreation facilities, preferably within a private members’ club, luxury hotel or similar environment.
• Previous managerial or senior supervisory experience.
• Strong knowledge of fitness programmes, recreational activities and facility operations.
• Relevant fitness, sports management, leisure management or related qualification.
• Valid first aid, CPR certification.
• Excellent communication, leadership and organisational skills.
• A professional, approachable and service-focused personality.
• Strong command of English; additional languages would be an advantage.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and public holidays when required.