Connis originally joined Oldham Active in July 2023 as Group Health and Fitness Brand manager, and some of her achievements include the introduction of a Women-only gym, the expansion of its successful Young Persons Membership, the creation and launch of BLAST, its high intensity functional fitness class concept, and Workplace Health Checks in the community.

In her new role, Connis will focus on several key strategic priorities to position Oldham Active as a leader in community health. Her primary aims include strengthening vital partnerships with the Integrated Care Board (ICB) and Primary Care Network (PCN), as well as overseeing the expansion and rebranding of Oldham Active’s Exercise Referral Scheme. She will also manage critical refurbishment projects.

Connis has extensive experience in the leisure and fitness industry, having spent many years prior to joining Oldham Active working for Pure Gym, GLL, David Lloyd and Blackburn Borough Council in a variety of positions including Activities Manager and Leisure Centre Manager.

Connis began her career journey in the industry in entertainment, working for P&O on cruise ships travelling the world, and then as a fitness instructor and personal trainer. She says: 'This is a key milestone in my career; I am so excited to have been promoted to this new role at Oldham Active. I can’t wait to get started! I'm passionate about creating opportunities for everyone to move a little more every day, and part of my continued commitment with Oldham Active is to identify health inequalities and underrepresented communities and deliver programmes that redress this imbalance.'

Simon Blair, deputy CEO of Oldham Active, says: 'I am delighted to welcome Lauren to our executive management team. Since joining Oldham Active she has consistently delivered key health and fitness projects, improving our wellbeing offer including gym provision, group exercise programmes, health referrals and community-based services. In her new role she will be instrumental in shaping the future of leisure trust. We're excited to see the positive impact Lauren will continue to have as she delivers these exceptional health and wellbeing services to the local community. We can't wait to witness the positive changes she'll bring!'