Life Fitness has appointed Paul Stoneham as its new CEO, replacing Chris Clawson and effective immediately.

Stoneham joins the fitness equipment giant following a career working for a wide range of consumer brands – most recently at outerwear company Helly Hansen AS, where he has spent the past six years.

He has also had stints at GHD Group Holdings – a professional haircare business – and Boots Healthcare International, a consumer healthcare specialist.

During his career, he has overseen three successful company disposals, including the sale of Helly Hansen to the Canadian Tire Corporation in 2018.

Stoneham began his career in consumer products at Procter & Gamble, and was president of global business development at Colgate-Palmolive, leading the global categories.

Commenting on his new role – his first in fitness – Stoneham said: "The fitness sector is undergoing a phase of rapid transformation, driven by technological innovation and shifting consumer expectations, all on the back of an unprecedented period of disruption.

"As a global leader, Life Fitness has the brand strength, team and infrastructure to drive innovation and provide everyone from professional athletes to new gym users an unparalleled experience.

"I'm excited to be joining such an experienced team and look forward to building on Life Fitness' deep brand heritage and reputation."

In a short statement, Life Fitness said it thanks departing CEO Chris Clawson for his years of service at Life Fitness and wishes him well in his future endeavors.

Clawson was appointed CEO in July 2019, after ​​previously serving as president of Life Fitness from 2010 to 2016.