Tara Dillon: Leadership lessons from the top

S17 Ep 8

When it comes to building culture and leading an organisation there are few individuals doing it better than Tara Dillon, the CEO at CIMSPA (The Chartered Institute for Sport and Physical Activity).

Voted as one of the top 5 CEOs in the Times best companies initiative Tara remains passionate about the potential for the sport and physical activity sector to be a vital support arm for the NHS.

Tara has transformed workplaces with her transformative attitude to fostering a collaborative environment and building trust. Hear how Tara’s unique hiring practices, alternative annual leave policy and coaching style of management enable every team member to thrive as a superhero in their role.

At the forefront of CIMSPA’s work since her appointment in 2015, Tara leads initiatives that help professionalise the workforce and enhance the career prospects of those working in sport, leisure and fitness.

Tara began her career in sport and physical activity as a lifeguard in her local leisure centre back in 1987. In 2001 She was appointed Contract Manager at DC Leisure Management, a company specialising in the development and management of leisure facilities on behalf of local authorities.

She went on to be the Executive Director of IQL - the trading arm of the Royal Lifesaving Society and joined CIMSPA as CEO in 2015.

Tara’s sense humour shines through in this fabulous episode. It would be hard not be inspired by her relentless pursuit of excellence.

This podcast was recorded in front of a live audience at the Elevate trade show in London. 

Thank you to Sport England who support The Game Changers Podcast with a National Lottery award.

Find out more about The Game Changers podcast here: https://www.fearlesswomen.co.uk/thegamechangers

Hosted by Sue Anstiss
Produced by Sam Walker, What Goes On Media

A Fearless Women production