HFA Announces Leadership Change, With CEO Liz Clark Transitioning Out

Clark joined the Health & Fitness Association as its CEO in 2021. She will remain with the organization until her contract ends in July

The Health & Fitness Association (HFA) and Liz Clark have mutually agreed to a leadership transition, with Clark departing as CEO. 

Clark will remain with HFA through the end of her contract in July, although the leadership transition has already begun. 

To assist with the transition, HFA has brought on Chelsea Piers Connecticut executive director/vice president Greta Wagner, who will work closely with the organization’s board of directors. 

HFA shared the transition plan with its staff and in a letter sent to its members on Monday. 

The organization, which is the U.S. fitness industry’s top trade association, is framing the move as a next step as it enters a new phase of growth. 

“The organization is entering its next phase and a leadership transition is a part of that,” HFA spokesperson Jenny Kay told Athletech News. “Liz joined HFA during a critical period for the industry, and now is the right time to evolve leadership as we focus on future growth.”

Clark joined HFA as its CEO in 2021 amid the pandemic, and under her leadership, the organization increased its advocacy efforts and worked to position fitness as a central voice in preventive health policy at the state and federal levels. 

“Liz stepped into one of the most challenging periods in this industry’s recent history and helped lead HFA through it with real resolve,” board president Luke Carlson said in a statement shared with Athletech News. “Because of her leadership, HFA enters this next chapter from a position of strength — with growing momentum, a stronger policy voice and an industry that is increasingly recognized as essential to the nation’s health. We are grateful for everything she built and wish her well.”

HFA is conducting a national search to find a new president and CEO, the organization confirmed to ATN.