Maria Blioumkin

Experienced fitness leader with a proven track record in driving transformative change and elevating member satisfaction. As Head of Exercise Experience at Virgin Active UK, I've harmonized cultural change, performance and operational excellence, orchestrating a 37% increase in group exercise penetration and a 30% surge in Personal Training engagement. My data-driven approach and strategic collaboration have positioned the clubs I have worked at as standout performers nationally. I've built and nurtured high-performing teams, in a fast-paced and target-orientated environment, as well as led multiple teams through a series of complex organisational changes. I have experience in managing all aspects of a fitness club, including pre-sale for a new opening club, as well as a wealth of business, operational, health and safety, sales knowledge and an in-depth understanding of fitness and the industry.

As the Head of Exercise Experience at Virgin Active, I was responsible for leading the Fitness, Personal Trainer, and Group Exercise functions in my clubs, harmonizing exercise experience, business, and operational excellence seamlessly. During my tenure, I have spent time acting as the club's General Manager, led projects that included renovation, app launches and organisational change in my clubs. By utilizing data-driven insights, I have optimised KPIs, thus driving higher engagement in our fitness services and products. My strategic thinking and analytical skills have consistently fuelled business growth. As a skilled communicator, I bridged gaps between departments to ensure a seamless and outstanding fitness journey for each member and a positive culture in the club.

In my role as a Club Manager I have led the successful launch of a pre-sale club.

In my role as a project manager I have led complex military-tech projects from conception to integration.

Bachelors Degree in Business Management

L3 in Personal Training

L3 in Leadership and Management