Founding General Manager (Chicago)

Who We Are:

The Athletic Clubs is a private, membership-based fitness concept redefining what a gym can be. We’re built around structured, squad-based training, exceptional coaching, and a genuinely social community that keeps people consistent and connected. Our members don’t just come to work out. They build routines, friendships, and a sense of belonging. Training is the anchor, but the experience extends far beyond the floor through run club, social events, partnerships, and community moments across the city. We’re a growing, high-standards team that cares deeply about craft, culture, and momentum. We move quickly, think intentionally, and value people who take ownership, bring ideas to the table, and want to help build something meaningful — not just maintain the status quo.

Overview: 

The Founding General Manager (GM) will play a pivotal role in launching and leading our new location as we launch in Chicago. You’re not just opening doors; you’re setting the tone, building the team, and crafting a new community. This role demands a proactive, hands-on leader who can thrive through change and momentum. You’ll own everything from pre-opening activations to post-launch performance, with the opportunity to shape what the Chicago market becomes.

Responsibilities:

Pre-Opening Phase:

• Partner with NSO and Sales to lead presale activations, local outreach, and Run Club or outdoor event execution
• Hire, onboard, and train Coaches and Community Managers with support from T&D and Operations
• Drive local lead engagement and support early conversions in partnership with Sales
• Ensure operational readiness across staffing, scheduling, software systems, inventory, uniforms, and facility set-up
• Embody and represent the brand in the local community, from events to early touch points with members

Post-Opening Phase:

• Own and optimize all studio operations, from financials and labor management to cleanliness and member experience
• Lead, develop, and manage the studio team — creating a culture of accountability, excellence, and fun
• Deliver an average of 15 classes per week 
• Maintain a consistent and visible in-studio presence to support team culture, member engagement, and operational excellence. Participation in team workouts.
• Track KPIs weekly and make tactical decisions to support retention, referrals, and revenue
• Foster a thriving member community by ensuring high engagement, consistent programming delivery, and an elevated in-studio experience

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs):

Pre-Opening:

• Pre-Sale Lead Engagement Rate
• Community Event Execution Score
• Hiring Completion Rate for Coaches & CMs
• Launch Readiness Score
• Staff Onboarding Completion
• GM Conversion Contribution (tracked separately from Sales)
• Soft Opening Execution Score

Post-Opening:

• Studio Revenue
• Labor % to Revenue (Coaches)
• Squad Utilization Rate
• Midday Revenue vs. Target
• Referral Conversion Count
• Member Count
• New Member Onboarding Completion Rate
• Studio Audit Score
• Staff Retention (Coach & CM)

Who You Are:

• A natural leader with experience in studio management, team building, and community development
• Passionate about our brand and confident leading teams in high-growth, high-energy environments
• Organized, tactical, and great under pressure
• Skilled at reading the room, managing people, and juggling multiple priorities

• 2+ years of leadership or studio operations experience in a fitness, hospitality, or high-growth service environment
• CPR, First Aid & AED certified (or willing to obtain)
• Willingness to work non-traditional hours including mornings, evenings, and weekends
• Ability to lift and carry at least 30 lbs; capable of standing for long periods and moving freely within the space
• NASM CPT (or equivalent)

• 4 weeks of PTO/year with immediate accrual
• 401k
• Competitive medical / dental / vision coverage - 100% option for individual