About Us

Bethan Laker, Founder and Company Director, who has an 18-year tenure in the industry spanning both the UK and Ireland. Bethan is a highly sought-after consultant specialising in swimming pool business growth. Her expertise lies in supporting financial growth, ensuring programme viability and sustainability, and optimising pool and programme operations. Bethan's invaluable experience encompasses both operational and strategic perspectives, with a strong focus on industry leaders over the past seven years. Collaborating with esteemed organisations including Nuffield Health, Everyone Active, and Serco Leisure, she is renowned for her innovative approach to aquatic business development.

Passionate about doing the right thing, Bethan believes that learning to swim saves lives. She is dedicated to promoting water safety and empowering individuals with essential swimming skills. This conviction drives her commitment to providing consultancy services that prioritise safety, efficiency, and sustainability. Bethan's unwavering belief in the life-saving impact of swimming underscores The Leisure Experts' mission to create positive water experiences and a safer aquatic industry. With her leadership, we strive to make a significant difference by equipping our clients with the tools and knowledge they need to thrive while ensuring that swimming remains a vital life skill for everyone.

Joni Harding, Company Director and an Aquatic and Education strategist, specialising in pathway and programme development, and quality assurance. Originally from Co. Derry/Londonderry and now residing in Co. Down, Joni has been an influential figure in the Irish leisure industry for a number of years. Working with Swim Ireland, Sport Ireland and Ireland Active, and major public and private leisure management companies, she has honed her expertise in creating comprehensive and impactful aquatic programmes.

With a strong background in education, Joni is dedicated to revolutionising the way leisure operators work and transforming the customer experience. Her passion for delivering high-quality results shines through her work, making her a natural leader in the field.

With Joni's visionary approach and dedication to excellence, we are committed to driving positive change and empowering leisure operators to thrive. Her presence on our team ensures that our programmes and services are of the highest quality, elevating the standards of the leisure industry in the UK, Ireland and beyond.

Meet Paul, an accomplished and versatile professional with a broad array of sporting experiences. As the Operations Manager at The Leisure Experts, Paul plays a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth and efficient functioning of the company. His expertise and passion for sports extends beyond swimming, having worked in Irish football and third-level sport.

Additionally, Paul is a Part-Time Lecturer at Ulster University, guiding aspiring students towards success in the sports industry. He also serves as the Community Relations Liaison Officer at Bangor Football Club, fostering unity between the club and its supporters. Paul's commitment to community development extends to his role as a Board Member at Friends Forever International. With his dedication to sports and community development, coupled with his role in the leisure industry, Paul leaves a positive impact on every path he treads.

Russell Cavanagh is an accomplished Health & Safety Consultant with nearly 30 years of experience in the leisure industry. Having held senior management roles at leading leisure operators such as Leisure Connection and David Lloyd, he later specialised in health and safety, gaining extensive expertise across sectors like Education, Retail, Hospitality, and Manufacturing.

Now working with TLE, Russell plays a key role in providing expert health and safety services. His qualifications include a NEBOSH Health & Safety Certificate (Distinction), ISRM Leisure Management Certificate, and membership in professional organisations such as IOSH and CIMPSA.

With a deep commitment to excellence, Russell ensures our clients receive the highest standard of health and safety support, helping them create safer and more efficient working environments across multiple industries.

Committed to enhancing customer experience and driving programme development and growth, Emma brings a wealth of expertise in the industry with a particular focus on private clubs and membership retention. As a seasoned professional in team management, Emma leads and motivates our team to deliver excellence in every aspect of our services. Emma's dedication to personalised services ensures that each project is tailored to our clients' and customers unique preferences and needs. Her creative approach and attention to detail guarantee that our visions are not only brought to life but delivered flawlessly. With Emma's commitment to customer satisfaction, she plays a pivotal role in creating exceptional aquatic experiences for all our valued clients and customers.

Mandy is a dedicated and dynamic professional with a remarkable career in the swimming industry. With over 35 years of experience, Mandy has excelled in various roles, including swimming teacher, co-ordinator, and ASA Education Centre Manager. She has been involved in special projects, regional business management, and partnership development, making her a true expert in her field.

Throughout her career, Mandy has gained extensive experience in teaching individuals of all abilities, both adults and children. Prior to her time with the ASA, she managed a team of 30 employees, demonstrating exceptional organisational and leadership skills. With her enthusiasm, customer focus, and positive approach, Mandy is a valuable asset in business development.

Mandy's love for teamwork and the ability to work independently make her a versatile and effective professional. At The Leisure Experts, we are thrilled to have Mandy's expertise and dedication, as she contributes her vast knowledge and skills to help us make a significant impact in the leisure industry.