Operator Freedom Leisure has made a double appointment as it bids to strengthen its management team, welcoming Mike Worsnop as business development manager and Alyson Zell as aquatic business manager.

Worsnop boasts 18 years’ leisure industry experience from a career that has spanned the public, third and private sectors. He arrives from Worcester City Council, where he was head of Safer & Stronger Communities across a range of sectors, while Worsnop has also been a fellow at CIMSPA and a Quest Assessor for more than 10 years.

Worsnop has been tasked with developing and winning new contracts, as well as diversifying the portfolio as part of the Freedom Leisure ambition to expand and grow. He will also support the maintenance and growth of existing contracts.

Meanwhile, aquatic business manager Alyson Zell arrives with a lifelong passion for swimming, exemplified by her 30 years’ experience working in the aquatics industry. Zell, who most recently worked as swim manager at Everyone Active, will be based at Freedom Leisure’s head office in East Hoathly. Her main duties are to deliver and develop the operator’s Aquatic Strategy, maximise opportunities to increase participation in aquatic activities and take responsibility for Freedom Swim Schools across the company.

“Mike and Alyson join us as we are seeking new sites and growth opportunities within existing contracts,” said Freedom Leisure MD Ivan Horsfall-Turner.

“Mike’s strategic role will be key to expanding our business and broadening our geographical presence, while Alyson will help ensure that our swim programme for children, schools, adults and communities is safeguarded and developed in line with the opportunities available and current growing demand.”