Case studies: Fitness centre manager: Jessica Willington

Jessica graduated from the University of Edinburgh in 2003 with a BA (Hons) in Sport and Recreation Management. Her first job was working in an administration role in a fitness centre and from there she has progressed to a managerial position.

When I graduated I applied for quite a few jobs but was successful in getting my first job with the company that I had worked for part time during my degree. I was lucky in having such a good contact there and I think that, along with my degree, really helped me to get my first job and to get promoted so quickly. 

I began by working on reception but when I had my assessment I made it clear that I would like to get promoted and that my ambition was to become a manager one day. When I had been working there for six months a position became vacant for an assistant manager and I applied for it. I became the general manager two years ago and really enjoy the challenge and responsibility of my role.

My degree was really useful in helping me to get this post and in helping me to be successful in it. I use the skills I gained from my degree every day, from human resources to understanding the financial aspects of my role. I think the group work and projects I completed in my degree were a useful introduction to being a member of a close team. 

I enjoy most aspects of my job from knowing that we help people to be fit and healthy to the challenges of coping in high pressure situations. The hours can be quite long but I think if you enjoy your job that’s not really a drawback.

If you are interested in working in the fitness industry I really recommend getting some good work experience to help you get your first job. Then it’s just a case of learning as much as you can and applying for promotions when they become available.  

AGCAS

Sourced by Lucie Johnston, Stirling University

Date: 

October 2009

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