Group Exercise Manager

Required Skills

Nice to have:

Requires at least five years of experience in group exercise coaching and two years of experience managing group exercise programs, coaches, or a fitness department. Must possess an internationally recognized group exercise or fitness certification, certification in at least three Les Mills programs, and a recognized indoor group cycling certification. Strong knowledge of group fitness programming, class delivery, safety, and member engagement is essential. Preferred experience includes work in the UAE or GCC countries, current UAE REPs registration, and experience in large fitness clubs or leisure destinations. Overseas applicants are welcome but must be willing to relocate and complete all necessary procedures.

Job description / Role Job Type Full Time Job Location Abu Dhabi, UAE Nationality Any Nationality Salary Not Specified Gender Not Specified Arabic Fluency Not Specified Job Function Education & Teaching Company Industry Travel, Hotel & Tourism We are looking for an experienced Group Exercise Manager to lead and develop the group fitness programs of a leading sports, fitness, and leisure destination in the UAE. The successful candidate will be responsible for the quality, safety, performance, and continued development of group exercise activities. This includes managing coaches, introducing engaging fitness programs, maintaining service standards, and helping increase member participation and retention. This is a hands-on leadership position for someone who can manage the department while remaining actively involved with members, coaches, classes, and fitness events. Key Responsibilities • Lead the day-to-day operations and overall performance of the group exercise department. • Maintain high standards of coaching, member service, safety, and class delivery. • Develop structured, engaging, and results-focused group exercise programs for different fitness levels. • Design and introduce signature classes and new fitness programs. • Conduct regular class observations, quality checks, and departmental audits. • Monitor class attendance, member participation, feedback, and overall program performance. • Support membership growth and retention by creating positive and engaging fitness experiences. • Build strong relationships with members and encourage long-term participation. • Create a welcoming, motivating, and community-focused training environment. • Lead, guide, and support group exercise coaches. • Organize regular coaching workshops, training sessions, and skills-development programs. • Identify areas where coaches require further training or improvement. • Ensure that all coaches follow approved training methods, service standards, and safety procedures. • Keep up to date with new developments in group exercise, fitness, wellness, and member engagement. • Ensure that studios, training areas, and exercise equipment are safe, clean, prepared, and ready for use. • Maintain all required professional certifications and UAE fitness registration requirements. • Support member events, fitness challenges, promotional activities, and community initiatives. • Represent the organization professionally and demonstrate its values through excellent member service. • Work closely with other departments to support wider operational and business objectives. • Handle other reasonable duties and projects assigned by management. Requirements: To be considered for this role, you need to meet the following criteria: • Maintain full compliance with health, safety, and operating standards. • Deliver a consistently high level of member satisfaction. • Maintain excellent teamwork, communication, and punctuality. • Keep all required group exercise certifications valid. • Maintain or obtain UAE REPs registration, where required. • Complete at least three relevant professional training programs each year. • Participate actively in internal training, staff classes, team-building activities, and product knowledge sessions. • Complete the agreed Personal Development Plan. • Minimum Requirements • At least five years of experience in group exercise coaching. • At least two years of experience managing or supervising group exercise programs, coaches, or a fitness department. • An internationally recognized group exercise or fitness certification. • Certification in at least three Les Mills programs. • A recognized indoor group cycling certification. • Strong knowledge of group fitness programming, class delivery, safety, and member engagement. • Experience training, supervising, or developing group exercise coaches. • Good communication, leadership, and customer-service skills. • Ability to work in a busy, member-focused sports and fitness environment. • Willingness to work flexible schedules, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays when required. • Preferred Experience • Previous work experience in the UAE or another GCC country. • Current UAE REPs registration or eligibility to obtain it. • Experience working in a large fitness club, sports complex, leisure destination, or multidisciplinary training facility. • Experience launching new classes, signature programs, or member fitness initiatives. • Overseas Applicants • Qualified candidates currently based outside the UAE are welcome to apply. Candidates must be willing to relocate to the UAE and complete any required certification, registration, licensing, visa, or employment procedures. How to Apply • Interested candidates should submit an updated CV highlighting: • Group exercise coaching experience • Team or departmental management experience • Les Mills certifications • Indoor cycling certification • UAE REPs registration, if available • Current location and availability to relocate or join About the Company About Us Helping professionals grow. Supporting businesses thrive. Black Pearl is a HR consultancy and recruitment firm based in the UAE. We connect skilled professionals with leading organizations across the Gulf region, offering a personalized and thoughtful approach to hiring. Our team specializes in recruiting for roles across key industries, including but not limited to: - Healthcare and Life Sciences - Engineering and Construction - Technology and Digital - Finance and Accounting - Hospitality and Retail - Government and Emiratization Whether you’re searching for your next opportunity or looking to hire, we work closely with you to understand your goals and find the right fit. Easy Apply