23/04/2026
At just 25 years old, Joe Dobb is the new Centre Manager Orpington Golf Centre, demonstrating how the leisure industry can offer a compelling career path for ambitious young people.
Joe’s journey with us began four years ago after he graduated from Buckinghamshire New University with a degree in Accounting and Finance.
As a competitive swimmer for the Bromley Swimming Club, he originally began lifeguarding with Mytime Active gaining his NPLQ qualification as a practical way to earn money while he applied for graduate schemes.
However, we quickly recognised Joe’s potential. He went on to gain his Level 2 swimming teacher and coaching qualifications and was soon promoted to Swimming Coordinator at West Wickham Leisure Centre. He also gained his Royal Life Saving Society Trainer Assessor course and delivered multiple lifeguard NPLQ courses for us.
Since then, his rise through the ranks has been remarkably rapid. He was promoted from Swimming Coordinator to Operations Manager, overseeing multiple sites including The Spa at Beckenham and Biggin Hill, before arriving at his new role as Centre Manager at Orpington Golf Club.
In just four short years, Joe transitioned from the poolside to running a leisure venue. Joe explains: “I didn’t plan my career this way, but I am extremely pleased with how it has all fallen into place.
“After I graduated, I originally wanted to go into finance, but my work with Mytime Active is much more varied and interesting. Every day is different, which keeps me both motivated and on my toes. I really enjoy what I do, and there is a great team around me.
“Exciting things are happening at Orpington Golf Centre right now. We’re currently rolling out several new initiatives, including our new ‘The Green Room’ golf simulator. From tech upgrades to updating our hospitality spaces and facilities. I'm thrilled to be leading the charge through these changes. There’s lots of work to do and I’m here for the challenge.”
Steve May, CEO, Mytime Active says: “Huge congratulations to Joe on his appointment as Centre Manager. His journey from lifeguard to leading a major venue in just four years is inspiring. We are thrilled to have him running Orpington Golf Centre and we can’t wait to see where his career in leisure takes him next!”
You can read more about Joe and our new Green Room at Orpington Golf Centre here: https://www.mytimeactive.co.uk/wellbeing-mission/mytime-active-stories-joe
📸 Joe at The Green Room
