The Gym Group plc announced that Wais Shaifta and Rio Ferdinand have been appointed as Independent Non-Executive Directors of the company with effect from February 1, 2021. Wais and Rio bring a wealth of complementary business and life experience that will enhance the breadth of knowledge, customer insight and quality of work of the Board and the wider Executive team. Wais has gathered substantial e-commerce expertise from a number of leading online businesses. He is currently CEO at Push Doctor, Before joining Push Doctor, he was Director of Global Operations at Europe's largest online beauty marketplace, Treatwell, and prior to that spent six years with Just Eat, culminating in the role of International Operations Director in which he was responsible for overall group operations strategy. Following his renowned football career, Rio has pursued a number of interests in business, broadcasting and charity. He has launched #5Magazine, he is a television pundit for BT Sport as well as an author and filmmaker; and he has worked closely with the government and other influential thinkers on how to reinvigorate communities in social housing. Through the Rio Ferdinand Foundation, he works collaboratively with young people and communities to deliver progression pathways aimed at ensuring young people are socially mobile and empowered to be independent. Rio is a passionate advocate for fitness, mental health and well-being and diversity. The company also confirms that Senior Independent Director, Paul Gilbert, will retire at the AGM in May after nine years with the company's business.