The fitness and physical activity sector thrives on passion, resilience, and purpose—and Marianne Boyle, Director of Membership and Sector Development at UK Active, embodies all three. With a career dedicated to driving positive change in the industry, Marianne Boyle has built a reputation for her authenticity, leadership, and ability to inspire those around her.
On the Love Your Career Podcast, hosted by Lawrence Everest, Marianne Boyle shared her career journey, key lessons, and invaluable advice for job seekers. Whether you’re just starting out, looking for progression, or wondering how to stay true to yourself in your career, this episode is packed with insights.
1. Love What You Do – It Makes All the Difference
When asked if she has loved her career so far, Marianne Boyle gave an immediate and passionate "yes."
📌 She believes the best careers are built on genuine passion for what you do.
📌 Working in the physical activity sector is about more than just a job—it’s about believing in the power of movement, fitness, and community.
💡 “What is not to love about working in a profession that you truly believe in?”
For job seekers, this is a crucial reminder: Follow your passion, and career satisfaction will follow.
2. Resilience is Key – Especially in This Sector
Marianne Boyle highlighted the importance of resilience, particularly in an industry that has faced significant challenges over the years.
📌 The past few years have been some of the toughest for the fitness and leisure sector, but the passion of those within it keeps pushing it forward.
📌 Job seekers must embrace resilience and adaptability—setbacks are part of the journey, but they don’t define your future.
💡 “To have resilience, you need passion. If you believe in what you do, you’ll keep pushing forward.”
For job seekers, this means understanding that career challenges are temporary—but passion and perseverance will carry you through.
3. Every Job Teaches You Something – Learn from Every Step
Before reaching her leadership role, Marianne Boyle held a variety of jobs—including fitness instructing, sales, and even working in a stainless steel company!
📌 Every job, no matter how small, teaches valuable skills.
📌 Whether it was problem-solving in recruitment, learning customer service at Tesco, or navigating complex staffing challenges in the NHS, each experience contributed to her career growth.
💡 “Even in jobs I knew weren’t forever, I found something valuable to take forward.”
For job seekers, this is a great mindset shift: Every role you take adds to your skillset and helps shape your career.
4. Find Your Own "Why" and Let It Drive You
When asked about her "why", Marianne Boyle spoke passionately about her belief in the sector’s impact on society.
📌 She wants more people to benefit from fitness—not just physically, but socially and mentally.
📌 Her mission is to help drive systemic change that makes fitness more accessible to everyone.
💡 “This industry isn’t just about exercise—it’s about creating healthier communities, stronger connections, and improving lives.”
For job seekers, finding your own "why"—the deeper reason behind your career choice—will help you stay motivated and fulfilled.
5. Progression Comes from Excelling in the Present
One of the biggest mistakes professionals make? Focusing too much on the next step instead of excelling in the now.
📌 Marianne Boyle shared that many of her promotions came from simply being fully present and excelling in her current role.
📌 Employers recognize those who are engaged, committed, and consistently performing at a high level.
💡 “People can see right through someone who is too focused on their next step. Show up, do your best, and opportunities will come.”
For job seekers, this is a crucial lesson: Master where you are before looking ahead.
6. Authenticity is Everything
When it comes to interviews and career progression, Marianne Boyle emphasized one key principle: Be yourself.
📌 If you feel like you have to change your personality to fit a job, it’s not the right job for you.
📌 Employers and teams thrive when people bring their genuine selves to the table.
💡 “If a company doesn’t think you’re the right fit, then they’re probably not the right fit for you either.”
For job seekers, authenticity is a superpower—it helps you find the right career, the right company, and the right culture where you can truly thrive.
7. Take Career Risks – Even When You’re Unsure
Not every move in Marianne Boyle’s career was carefully planned. Some of her best decisions came from taking opportunities that felt right, even if they were uncertain.
📌 Many job seekers hesitate to take risks because they fear making the wrong choice.
📌 But growth often comes from stepping outside your comfort zone.
💡 “I didn’t write five-year plans—I focused on doing what I loved and saying yes to the right opportunities.”
For job seekers, this is a reminder that sometimes, the best career moves come from trusting your instincts and taking a chance.
Final Thought: Your Career is Yours to Shape
Marianne Boyle has built an incredible career by staying true to herself, believing in her industry, and embracing every challenge along the way.
✅ Find your passion and make it your career foundation.
✅ Embrace challenges as learning experiences.
✅ Be present in your current role—progression will come.
✅ Stay authentic—your best opportunities will align with who you are.
💡 “Careers don’t happen by accident. They happen because you believe in something, work hard for it, and surround yourself with the right people.”
Want More Career Insights? Listen to the Full Episode! 🎧
This episode of the Love Your Career Podcast is filled with even more wisdom from Marianne Boyle.
📢 Tune in to hear her full story and expert insights!
Explore Jobs on Love Fitness Jobs
