Meet the Team

Julie joined the team in 1996 as the first employee of Sandford Lido Ltd, the charity that operates the Lido. Over the years, her role has evolved from Lifeguard and Duty Manager to CEO – giving her a deep understanding of every part of our operation.

Following the successful renegotiation of our lease with Cheltenham Borough Council, Julie now focuses on supporting Fabia in overseeing the day-to-day running of the Lido, while maintaining strong communication between the Board of Trustees and the permanent team. She also leads our long-term strategic planning, ensuring our much-loved Lido not only weathers uncertain times, but continues to grow and thrive for generations to come.

Fabia joined the Lido as Events Manager in 2018 and became General Manager in 2020. Originally from Guernsey, she moved to Cheltenham to study Sports Therapy at the University of Gloucestershire and has made the town her home ever since.

With over 15 years’ experience in the leisure industry – beginning as a Personal Trainer before moving into management – Fabia brings both operational expertise and hands-on industry knowledge to the role. As General Manager, she oversees the entire Lido operation, ensuring budgets are met and strong collaboration exists across all departments. She works closely with Julie and the Board of Trustees, providing quarterly updates, and is also a qualified Lifeguard Trainer Assessor.

Tom joined the team as Assistant Manager and plays an important role in supporting the safe and effective operation of the Lido. Working closely with Fabia and the wider team, he helps ensure the facility runs smoothly throughout the season.

Tom is responsible for maintaining the safety of the site, overseeing the operation of the plant room, and managing external contractors to ensure essential maintenance and improvements are carried out to a high standard.

Outside of the Lido, Tom is passionate about fitness. He enjoys running and cycling and also works as a Sports Performance Coach specialising in endurance sports.

Amy joined the team in 2024 as our Marketing and Communications Assistant. With a keen eye for detail and a strong passion for marketing, social media and content creation, she plays an important role in shaping and strengthening the Lido’s brand presence.

Her responsibilities include managing our social media channels, handling press communications, and building strong relationships with our valued customers and community. Amy works closely with the wider team to share the Lido story in engaging and meaningful ways, helping us connect with both new and returning visitors throughout the season.

Chris first lifeguarded at the Lido 30 years ago before going on to study Sport Science and Physiology at the University of Leeds. He spent 20 years on site as a Personal Trainer with Reach Fitness, becoming a familiar and valued part of the Lido community.

After qualifying as a mindfulness teacher, Chris spent five years supporting young people with their mental health at Young Gloucestershire. Now back at the Lido, he leads on all of our events, working as part of a dynamic team to deliver a diverse and successful programme throughout the season. He also takes a hands-on role as Duty Manager.

Passionate about mindfulness, wellbeing and the benefits of cold water swimming, Chris is currently working closely with Fabia to further enhance and evolve our events offering at the Lido.

Josh joined the Lido team in 2022 as a Lifeguard and Duty Manager before stepping into the role of Operations Supervisor this year. During his time at the Lido, he has gained valuable experience across several areas of the operation and is a familiar face to both colleagues and customers.

In his current role, Josh oversees lifeguard training courses, fitness classes and swimming lessons, helping to ensure these programmes run smoothly and continue to offer high-quality opportunities for both staff and visitors.

Outside of work, Josh enjoys going to the gym, staying active and travelling whenever he gets the chance.

Sally joined the Lido as a Receptionist in 2017 before becoming a permanent member of the team as Administrator in 2018.

She oversees the day-to-day financial administration of the business, ensuring invoices are processed and paid on time, and raising and issuing invoices for incoming payments. Sally also collates and submits payroll information to our external providers, making sure both our permanent and seasonal teams are paid accurately each month.

In addition, she manages customer feedback through our NPS surveys, supports private hire administration, and provides invaluable assistance across a wide range of operational tasks that keep the Lido running smoothly behind the scenes.

Rob has joined the team as our Technical Assistant, bringing a strong maintenance focus to the day-to-day running of the Lido. He plays a key role in keeping the site operating safely and efficiently, taking responsibility for the upkeep of our facilities as well as maintaining the pool plant room.

His work includes carrying out regular chemical testing, repairing and maintaining equipment across the site, and completing important risk assessments to ensure everything runs smoothly throughout the season.h

Outside of work, Rob is happiest walking the dog on the hills with his wife, relaxing in their campervan and travelling on holiday.