Tim Hewett, former business development director of Places for People Leisure, has been appointed to the board of leisure operator and charity Active Nation.

Chaired by fitness industry veteran Tony Majakas, Active Nation currently manages 15 leisure centres on behalf of local authorities across the UK.

Hewitt has previously sat on a number of industry boards, including The Royal Institute of British Architects panel of leisure experts, as well as on the main board of ukactive in its former guise as the Fitness Industry Association.

According to Bob Paton, Active Nation’s honorary president, Hewett will bring to the charity a “wealth of expertise in new business development and growth strategy”, as the operator looks to expand its portfolio.

“We are excited to have Tim join us and with his credentials, consider it a huge compliment,” Paton said.

“He brings with him huge leisure management experience as well as being innovative and inventive, which combined, will accelerate the boards current plans to develop Active Nation’s leading edge.

“Alongside Tony Majakas and the wider executive team, we have a significant wealth of acumen and industry know-how in the boardroom, which is more encouraging than ever.”

Commenting on his appointment, Hewitt said: “After 40 years of working in the leisure management industry, it’s great to be able to put something back into such an important sector that makes a positive difference to people’s lives from all sections of our communities.”