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
2024.07 - 2026.03
- 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
2024.05 - 2024.06
- 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
2017.09 - 2024.05
- 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
2009.03 - 2017.08
- 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 2005.09 - 2008.06
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)
2024.07 - 2026.03
Health Club & Spa Manager
Ashford International Hotel
2024.05 - 2024.06
Active Health Manager
Canterbury Christ Church University
2017.09 - 2024.05
Health & Fitness Supervisor
University of Kent
2009.03 - 2017.08
NVQ Level 3 - Personal Trainer
Thanet College
2005.09 - 2008.06