Ep.37 - Marco Ferdinandi, The importance of understanding culture and people

Marco Ferdinandi, director of fitness operations at Pure Fitness in Hong Kong has spent over 25 years in the industry, listening to communities and drawing on experience to develop the best philosophies for anyone's fitness journey. Watch the full episode on YouTube – https://youtu.be/_bwxldHI6F8 On top of his graduation from Hong Kong University, Marco has gone on to receive further degrees in sports science, performance and management to bring an incredible background of knowledge and experience to everything he does. He joined the fitness industry in New York, but found its direction and approach falling by the wayside around the time of the financial crisis. Wanting to get out into the world, Marco originally looked for openings in Europe before work in Asia appeared as the perfect opportunity with Pure.  In his current role as director of fitness operations, Marco is always pushing the boundaries and trying new things with the support of the clientele, through community research and continual feedback. Whether in studio or outside, his programming at Pure offers solo workouts, PT, Group X experiences and more, implementing a passionate approach that's driving fitness in the East. Since joining Pure, Marco has been responsible for installing the world's first 270-degree immersive fitness studio, helped gain over 75,000 clients and employed 1900 staff. It's incredible progress for the premium lifestyle brand that has cemented its place in premium locations and, with Marco's influence, they're in it for the long term. For more information visit pure-fitness.com   Episode Highlights -  How the Asia market differs from the west in its approach to staffing, education and how companies connect with clients. Why someone would want to pack up and work in the other side of the world, and how to take advantage of any exciting opportunity. How space and demand may prohibit certain models that are familiar in the west from operating in Asia, what's popular with the Asian demographic at present and what future trends are on the horizon. Hear about the origins and history of Pure Fitness, and how it became a premium lifestyle brand in fitness, nutrition and more. Why an innovation lab is the perfect way to trial products and get feedback from both sides, with minimal risk.   Join Matthew Januszek in conversation with Marco Ferdinandi …