Former Fitness First HRD recalls his most 'privileged' day in HR

Niall Cluley, Partner and Director of culture and engagement consultancy Dragonfish, and former Global HR Director at Fitness First, reveals to HR Grapevine his most privileged day in HR...

“I will always look back on this day and feel privileged to have been a part of it. It confirmed why I do what I do, and why HR can be so rewarding,” he explains. “I had only been at Fitness First for four months, having joined as Global Head of Talent & Development, when I was invited to be a judge at the company’s annual ‘New You Achievement’ Awards ceremony. The awards recognise and celebrate members’ fitness achievements and the Fitness First staff that helped them meet these goals.

“The day opened with each of the finalists sharing their story. What struck me was the breadth of stories I heard. I had assumed most would centre on weight loss, getting stronger – it was so much more than that. 

“One guy had been seriously injured by an accident at work, was wheelchair bound and couldn’t walk. Through the support and guidance of his trainer, they restored his mobility, working together every step of the way. Incredible.