Nigel Wallace has resigned as executive director of the Fitness Industry Association (FIA).

His departure comes as the association embarks upon a major expansion and restructure following a strategic review.

Wallace said: “The restructure would have meant either seeing this next stage of the FIA’s development through for the next three years or easing my way out over the next few months.

“I am passionate about the FIA and the industry in general and have put blood, sweat and tears into its development. However I would like to pursue a number of personal ambitions and feel that the timing is right for this.”

Since Wallace was appointed executive director in 2000, the FIA has grown from 750 members to 2,000, including more than 1,600 operators.

He has accepted an annual retainer from the organisation in respect of his freelance services on all industry matters involving academia.

A successor is expected to be announced shortly with a handover taking place in December or January 2005.