A Club Manager at David Lloyd Clubs plays a pivotal role in delivering exceptional member experiences while driving commercial success. As the face of the club, you’re responsible for managing operations, leading a team, ensuring high standards of service, and creating a vibrant, inclusive atmosphere for members and staff alike. The Club Manager oversees everything from health and safety compliance and revenue targets to team morale and customer satisfaction.
The average salary for a Club Manager at David Lloyd Clubs in the UK ranges between £35,000 to £55,000 per year, depending on club size, experience, and performance-based bonuses. It’s a role that blends leadership, business acumen, and a passion for health and fitness.
To help you shine in your interview, we’ve prepared a list of 20 commonly asked questions with model answers tailored specifically to the David Lloyd Clubs Club Manager role.
1. Tell us about yourself and your experience relevant to the Club Manager role.
Showcase leadership experience, team management, and passion for health and wellness.
Answer: “I’ve worked in the fitness and hospitality industries for over eight years, including four years in a management role overseeing team performance, customer satisfaction, and operational excellence. I’m passionate about fostering a positive environment that inspires both staff and members.”
2. Why do you want to work for David Lloyd Clubs?
Demonstrate knowledge of the brand and culture.
Answer: “David Lloyd Clubs are known for their premium service, innovation, and community spirit. I admire the emphasis on holistic well-being and would be proud to contribute to that mission as a leader.”
3. What leadership style do you follow, and how do you motivate your team?
Be authentic and specific.
Answer: “I lead by example and use a coaching-style approach to empower my team. I believe in regular feedback, recognition, and creating opportunities for growth to keep staff engaged.”
4. How would you handle a member complaint about service quality?
Show your problem-solving and empathy.
Answer: “I would listen actively, empathize with the member, and take immediate action to resolve the issue. I’d also follow up personally to ensure satisfaction and use the feedback to improve operations.”
5. How do you ensure high operational standards daily?
Focus on systems and consistency.
Answer: “Through daily team briefings, checklists, and clear SOPs. I also conduct regular walk-throughs and empower department heads to maintain accountability across all areas.”
6. Describe a time you exceeded business targets.
Use the STAR method.
Answer: “At my last club, I implemented a referral campaign and led a sales team that exceeded our quarterly membership target by 22%, increasing monthly revenue by £18K.”
7. What KPIs do you think are most important for this role?
Demonstrate a results-driven mindset.
Answer: “Membership growth, retention rate, secondary spend, staff turnover, Net Promoter Score (NPS), and safety compliance are crucial KPIs I actively track and manage.”
8. How do you handle underperforming team members?
Show balance between support and accountability.
Answer: “I start with one-on-one feedback to understand their challenges and set clear, measurable goals. If improvement isn’t made, I escalate according to policy while always treating the team member with respect.”
9. How would you approach increasing membership retention?
Show strategic thinking.
Answer: “By enhancing member engagement through events, personalized communication, and feedback loops. I’d also ensure staff are trained to build strong member relationships.”
10. How do you stay organized while managing multiple priorities?
Mention tools or habits.
Answer: “I rely on digital planning tools like Trello and Outlook Calendar, hold weekly planning sessions, and delegate effectively to department leads to stay on top of all club functions.”
11. Describe your approach to budgeting and cost control.
Talk about financial discipline.
Answer: “I monitor monthly spend against budget, assess ROI on programs, and collaborate with finance to find efficiency gains without compromising service quality.”
12. What safety protocols are vital in a club environment?
Demonstrate compliance awareness.
Answer: “Daily equipment checks, regular staff training on health and safety, clear incident reporting procedures, and compliance with all local regulations are essential.”
13. What is your biggest strength as a manager?
Be honest and relevant.
Answer: “I’d say it’s my ability to build high-performing teams through motivation, mentoring, and creating a shared vision.”
14. What’s a professional weakness you’ve worked to improve?
Show growth mindset.
Answer: “I used to find delegation difficult, but I’ve since learned that empowering others increases efficiency and morale. Now I coach my leaders to take ownership.”
15. How would you handle a conflict between two team members?
Show mediation skills.
Answer: “I would listen to both sides privately, mediate a fair conversation, and establish ground rules for future collaboration while reinforcing the club’s values.”
16. How do you create a welcoming environment for diverse members?
Show inclusivity.
Answer: “By ensuring all team members are trained in cultural awareness and service excellence, and promoting inclusive events that celebrate different backgrounds.”
17. What role does digital innovation play in running a club successfully?
Tie in tech with customer experience.
Answer: “Technology helps improve member tracking, automate bookings, and offer personalized fitness plans. I embrace innovation to enhance both service delivery and operations.”
18. How do you build strong relationships with club members?
Emphasize engagement.
Answer: “By being visible, approachable, and proactive in communication. I regularly check in with members and act on feedback quickly.”
19. How would you onboard a new team member?
Focus on training and integration.
Answer: “I provide a structured induction plan, assign a buddy, introduce them to key staff, and schedule review points during their first 90 days to ensure a smooth transition.”
20. Where do you see yourself in five years?
Show ambition but stay relevant.
Answer: “I see myself in a senior leadership role within David Lloyd, helping to shape the future of club experiences and driving performance across multiple locations.”
Interview Coaching Tips to Land the Role
Preparing for a Club Manager interview at David Lloyd Clubs means more than memorizing answers—it’s about presenting your leadership style, aligning with the brand, and showing a strong customer-first mindset. Here are some final coaching tips:
Research the club you’re applying to—know its unique features, recent initiatives, and member demographics.
Practice your delivery—not just the words, but your tone, body language, and confidence.
Dress professionally, reflecting the David Lloyd brand—smart, athletic, and personable.
Ask smart questions at the end—e.g., “What does success look like in the first 6 months here?”
With the right preparation, mindset, and passion, you’ll be in a strong position to secure the role and lead one of the UK’s most premium fitness clubs to new heights.
