Karen Monticelli

I have been employed by Active Life Ltd since 2006, progressing through a range of management roles including Centre Manager, Schools and Community Manager and General Manager. I bring extensive experience in managing both dry side and wet side leisure facilities, with a proven track record in multi-site leadership and the operation of dual-use facilities within contract environments.

Key achievements include:

• Increased membership and participation levels by developing innovative fitness, junior, and community programmes tailored to diverse user groups.
• Successfully managed multi-site and dual-use facilities, delivering operational efficiencies and consistently achieving or exceeding contract KPI's.
• Maintained exemplary health and safety and compliance records, achieving high scores in audits and inspections.
• Built and developed high performing teams, reducing staff turnover and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
• Secured strong partnerships with schools, local authorities, and community groups, resulting in increased engagement and facility utilisation.
• Delivered budgetary control and income growth, meeting financial targets while maximising community access and value for money.
• Maintained consistently high levels of customer satisfaction, reflected in strong retention / attrition figures and positive customer feedback results.

Working closely with Herne Bay High School's Senior Management Team, I successfully developed a commercially focused activity programme, whilst contributing to providing for the wider community.

Following the success achieved at Herne Bay High School, I was then asked to replicate these achievements at the Whitstable School. I went on to grow the programme considerably, increasing participation and turnover.

Following the closure of the Pier Sports Centre, I was transferred to a new dual-use facility, the Bay Sports Arena, which was shared with Herne Bay High School.

Initially, I was responsible for just the community side of the facility but within time, the school asked that I manage all of the school's leisure facilities and so a successful partnership was formed.

Facilities included, 3 sports halls, outdoor courts, grass pitches, climbing wall, a gym and studios.

I first came to Active Life as a Centre Manager, managing the Pier Sports Centre. Facilities included a roller rink, studios, gyms, squash courts creche and café.

Through the efficient and effective development of staff, programming, facilities and services, I was able to implement a Business Plan and Strategy that lead to future success.

However, the facility was later demolished and activities transferred to the new Bay Sports Arena, with extensions added to Herons Leisure Centre to accommodate all fitness provision.