Ben has been with Belgravia Leisure for over four years. Ben started in a temporary role as a Ventre Manager for 6 months before Belgravia Leisure took over management of the recreation facilities on the Mornington Peninsula.
What are some of your highlights/magic moments working with Belgravia Leisure?
“My time with Belgravia Leisure has been really unique as we changed the sites from Council run to then managed by Belgravia Leisure. I’m really proud of the team and how they have adapted and grown under the Belgravia Leisure flag. I had the pleasure of opening the new four-court stadium at Somerville Recreation Centre, which is a beautiful venue that the community flocks to for their sporting fix.”
“Opening Yawa Aquatic Centre has also been a career highlight. Council appointed us very early in the piece and really sought our advise on operations and management of the site. Watching some of our ideas come to life has been incredible and the response from our community has been overwhelming. It also helps that it is Geoff Lord, Chairman and CEO Belgravia Group’s new favourite site,” Ben says.
How have you, your team & venue been impacted by COVID-19 & what have you learnt?
“Like much of the organisation and industry, we have been hit hard by the number of resignations of our frontline staff. The team has been rolling up their sleeves and jumping in to help one another, plus we have seen some new ways of finding and employing staff. Most frustratingly every time we open it seems to be a new and different set of rules, so being adaptable has been the key,” Ben explained.
What is your favourite thing about your career?
“I started in the industry as a Membership Consultant, so helping people make a positive change was the driver for me. That hasn’t changed a lot, now it’s just on a larger scale.”
Where do you see yourself in the next 3-5 years?
“The Mornington Peninsula is a beautiful part of the world so I want to grow that area and work with Belgravia Leisure for years to come.”
What are 3 things you’re most passionate about in life and why?
- My family are definitely my number one. I have a beautiful wife, many would say I’m batting too high in the order, and two amazing kids who never cease to surprise me.
- I’ve always been actively involved in community sport, and whilst I’m now retired from footy and cricket I still dabble in some coaching.
- Is it wrong to say Gin? Chris has really swayed me in the past couple of years!
