Darius Ashtari
Kent
Summary
Experienced and people-focused General Manager with 19 years in the fitness industry, recognised for building high-performing teams and delivering exceptional member experiences. Skilled in leading complex leisure operations while maintaining high standards across service, sales, and compliance. A hands-on leader who fosters a culture of excellence, engagement, and continuous development.
Overview
17
17
years of professional experience
3
3
years of post-secondary education
1
1
Certification
Work history
General Manager
Everlast Gyms (Frasers Group)
Canterbury
07.2024 - 03.2026
- Lead all aspects of club performance including sales, operations, and member experience
- Drive membership growth, retention, and secondary spend through targeted strategies
- Foster a strong team culture focused on engagement, accountability, and service excellence
- Ensure full operational compliance across health & safety, facilities, and brand standards
Health Club & Spa Manager
Ashford International Hotel
Ashford
05.2024 - 06.2024
- Managed a multi-faceted leisure facility including gym, spa, pool, and food & beverage offering
- Led revenue growth initiatives across spa services and retail through partnerships and upselling
- Worked closely with external partners (e.g. Spa Breaks) to drive bookings and brand visibility
Active Health Manager
Canterbury Christ Church University
Canterbury
09.2017 - 05.2024
- Led the strategic development of health and wellbeing programmes to increase participation
- Oversaw financial planning, budgets, and KPI delivery across multiple programmes
- Improved member retention through enhanced customer journey and service delivery
Health & Fitness Supervisor
University of Kent
Canterbury
03.2009 - 08.2017
- Managed daily operations of a high-volume leisure facility
- Delivered consistent sales performance and improved member retention
Education
NVQ Level 3 - Personal Trainer
Thanet College
Kent 09.2005 - 06.2008
Skills
- New Club Openings & Operational Readiness
- Team Recruitment, Training & Culture Building
- Commercial Performance & Revenue Growth
- Member Experience & Retention Strategy
- Multi-Department Leadership
- Health & Safety Compliance
Certification
- Level 3 Leisure Management
- Level 3 Fitness Management
- Various Group Exercise
- Emergency First Aid & Pool Life Saver
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
General Manager
Everlast Gyms (Frasers Group)
07.2024 - 03.2026
Health Club & Spa Manager
Ashford International Hotel
05.2024 - 06.2024
Active Health Manager
Canterbury Christ Church University
09.2017 - 05.2024
Health & Fitness Supervisor
University of Kent
03.2009 - 08.2017
NVQ Level 3 - Personal Trainer
Thanet College
09.2005 - 06.2008