The fitness industry is full of inspiring career journeys, and Mark Braithwaite, Chief Operating Officer at Sandwell Leisure, has one of the most remarkable. From arriving in the UK with just £500 and a backpack to becoming a C-suite leader, Mark’s career is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the power of taking on tough challenges.
In his conversation on the Love Your Career Podcast, hosted by Lawrence Everest, Mark shared his key lessons on career growth, leadership, and decision-making. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take the next step in your career, his insights provide a roadmap for success.
1. Show Up Consistently and Do the Basics Well
Mark attributes much of his early career success to something simple yet powerful—showing up every day and being consistent.
💡 “You don’t need fireworks every day. Just be the person your team can rely on.”
Early in his career, Mark took on challenging roles that others avoided. Instead of chasing flashy opportunities, he focused on doing his job well, learning, and being dependable. This built a reputation that opened doors for future promotions.
2. Take Smart Risks (Even If They Mean a Pay Cut)
One of Mark’s best career decisions was stepping sideways instead of staying in a lucrative sales role. While he was financially successful at Homes Place, he realized that staying put meant limited long-term growth.
Instead, he took a pay cut to move into an operations role at Cannons, believing it offered better career progression.
🚀 Lesson: Short-term sacrifices can lead to long-term career gains.
3. Learning Never Stops – Seek Mentors and Coaches
Mark’s transition into leadership wasn’t just about promotions—it was about learning from others.
📌 He actively sought out mentors and coaches, particularly when stepping into senior roles. Having someone to challenge his thinking helped him avoid common leadership pitfalls.
📌 He also highlighted the importance of self-reflection, pausing at key moments in his career to assess where he needed to grow.
💡 “Why struggle alone when you can learn from someone who’s already been there?”
4. Take on the Tough Roles Others Avoid
Mark thrived in challenging environments, often taking on difficult teams or struggling locations that others shied away from.
💪 Why? These roles provided more learning and growth in six months than easy roles did in three years.
His advice? Don’t avoid the tough roles. Run toward them.
5. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help
Mark admitted that earlier in his career, he hesitated to ask for advice—worried it might be seen as a sign of weakness. But over time, he realized:
📌 People want to help. Most senior professionals are happy to give guidance. 📌 Asking for help isn’t a weakness—it’s a strength.
Whether it’s learning from a bad manager (what not to do) or finding a mentor, learning from others can accelerate your career growth.
6. Set Goals – And Involve Others in the Process
Mark is a big believer in goal setting—but not in isolation.
🎯 Every year, he sits down with his wife and trusted colleagues to plan personal, financial, and career goals.
His advice? Get input from people who will challenge you, not just nod along.
📌 Key takeaway: The best goals are shaped by feedback from those who know you well.
7. The One Piece of Advice He’d Give His Younger Self? Take More Risks.
While Mark is happy with his career, if he could go back, he’d take even more risks.
💡 “The tough roles and big leaps are where you grow the most. Don’t shy away from them.”
Final Thought: Tough Challenges Make You Better
Mark’s ultimate advice?
✅ Go after the difficult roles. ✅ Take calculated risks. ✅ Be consistent, reliable, and proactive.
"The toughest experiences will teach you more than anything else."
Want to Hear More? Listen to the Full Episode! 🎧
Mark Braithwaite’s career is packed with lessons for fitness professionals at every stage.
📢 Tune in to the Love Your Career Podcast to hear his full story and expert insights.
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