Fitness First is to launch a special course for its managers looking to furthering their career within the organisation.

The Global Business Academy (GBA) will be hosted at the IESE Business School – part of Barcelona University.

Taking place in November 2008, the four-day programme is targeted at senior managers who report to executive level at Fitness First.

Designed to assess current skill levels and sharpen commercial acumen and business skills, the event will also provide each delegate with a personal plan of action to help them fulfil their professional goals on return to work.

The intensive course includes sessions delivered by Fitness First senior executives, as well as lecturers from the IESE Business School, which also operates an established business consultancy arm.

Seminars will cover core areas such as leadership, sales management, effective performance management and customer relationship management.

In addition the week will include club tours, team building activities and networking opportunities with other Fitness First managers from around the world.

Colin Waggett, Fitness First chief executive, said: “On return to work, each delegate will have a Fitness First mentor assigned to them as part of a 100 day monitoring plan to help them implement their personal development plans.”

Candidates for the Fitness First GBA will be chosen on their successful track record for building teams and future leaders and their ability to demonstrate their enthusiasm and dedication for progression within the organisation.