General Manager in Training | LSF Illinois Center
Why Lakeshore – A Place to Grow, Play, and Lead
At Lakeshore Sport & Fitness, we’re proud to be Chicago’s #1 destination for sport, fitness, and fun—but what truly sets us apart is our people. From toddlers taking their first swim lesson to adults training for their next triathlon, we’re a vibrant community built on connection, energy, and excellence.
We lead with our values: Professionalism, Quality, Team, Ownership, and Celebration. Whether it’s driving membership growth, delivering unforgettable events, or building strong teams, we show up with heart and high standards to create experiences our members love.
And now, we’re looking for our next General Manager in Training—an exceptional leader who will step into an AGM-style role immediately and, over the course of six months, grow into the full General Manager position.
Your Game Plan – General Manager in Training
As General Manager in Training, you’ll learn, lead, and prepare to take the helm of our club. From membership and revenue strategy to programming, events, and daily operations, you’ll develop a full command of what it takes to run Lakeshore day-to-day.
This is a hands-on leadership role. You’ll partner closely with the current GM and senior leadership team, owning key areas of responsibility while building the skills, knowledge, and confidence to transition seamlessly into the GM seat within six months.
Your Role on the Team
Membership Growth & Retention: Partner with the membership team to drive sales, create engaging onboarding experiences, and ensure retention through excellent service and programming.
Revenue Leadership: Identify and execute strategies to grow club revenue through events, programs, and services.
Signature Events & Experiences: Lead and elevate member events that build community, showcase our offerings, and drive participation.
Develop Team Members: Coach, support, and hold leaders accountable—fostering a culture of service, professionalism, and fun.
Operational Excellence: Manage budgets, schedules, systems, and standards that keep the club running at its best.
Collaborate & Partner: Work closely with the GM, directors, and ownership to align strategy, share best practices, and create a unified member experience.
Prepare for GM Role: Step progressively into full club leadership, balancing vision, operations, people, membership, and results.
What You Bring – Your Strengths
A passion for fitness, recreation, hospitality, and membership growth—and the ability to translate that passion into programs and experiences people love.
Proven leadership skills—you inspire confidence, coach for growth, and hold team members accountable with clarity and care.
A balance of strategy and execution—you can design big-picture initiatives while thriving in the details of daily operations.
Strong business acumen—you understand sales, revenue drivers, and the importance of retention.
Excellent communication, problem-solving, and decision-making—you collaborate well and act quickly when challenges arise.
Hunger to grow—you’re motivated to step into the General Manager role within six months.
Core Qualifications
5+ years of leadership experience in recreation, hospitality, fitness, or related fields.
Demonstrated success in membership sales, retention, or revenue-generating initiatives.
Experience leading team members and managing programming across multiple departments.
Proven operational expertise: budgeting, scheduling, systems, and analysis.
Flexibility to work evenings/weekends as needed to support programming, events, and member experiences.
Team Member Experience
Lakeshore isn’t just a place to work—it’s a place to thrive. As a leader here, you’ll inspire and support team members, own a meaningful piece of the member experience, and prepare yourself for the opportunity to lead as General Manager. Every day, you’ll help shape how thousands of people connect, play, and grow.
Compensation & Perks
Salary: Competitive annual salary based on experience
Benefits: Medical, dental, vision, life, disability, 401(k), and PTO
Club Perks: Free family membership, complimentary childcare for team member children, 50% off services, discounted meals, and free parking
Culture & Growth: A high-energy, people-first environment with seasonal team events, leadership development opportunities, and a strong sense of purpose