Gym chain, Fitness First has announced a restructure of its management to be headed by new front man, Peter Boddy; commentators say the move is part of a strategy to prepare the business for an early return to the stock market.
Boddy takes over the role of Managing Director today.
Mike Metcalf, Chief Executive of Fitness First Group, commented: “I am delighted that Peter Boddy is joining as Managing Director of Fitness First Clubs as he brings valuable management experience, as well as great personal qualities, to this key role.”
The former MD of the Big Steak Pub Company and most recently Megabowl group will help to implement the restructure plans.
Twenty roles at the support centre in Poole and in other parts of the UK are expected to be axed in the reorganisation which is said to have been entirely business driven.
Fitness First operates over 160 clubs in the UK and is Europe’s largest health club chain. It is the second largest health club chain in the world with around 400 clubs and 1 million members.
Metcalf has denied claims that the restructure is an attempt to limber up the company for a stock market return.
