Health & Fitness Association (HFA) President & CEO Liz Clark announced that Anton Severin, based in Washington, DC, has joined the association as vice president of research.

In this newly created position, Severin will create and direct economic, data and market intelligence products to benefit fitness facilities and supplier partners. He will also lead education sessions, webinars, and custom projects and serve as a research spokesperson for the media at public events and with industry partners and coalitions.

“HFA’s core pillars are advocacy, education and research, and the work Anton will provide for our members, staff and the industry at large will help us take the association to the next level of service, cutting-edge analysis and insight. Anton’s education and early career experience in Europe will also help support our global membership and international efforts with valuable perspectives and accelerate our launch of a host of new data and research-oriented products and services,” Clark said.

“Data and products led by Anton will help our industry members better understand the marketplace, share insights with partners, serve customers and support industry advocacy programs, and, most importantly, help us continue to be the leading voice about the positive effects of exercise on physical and mental health and our industry’s role in improving individual and public health,” Clark added.

Most recently, Severin was the research director for the American Gaming Association. In this role, Severin reportedly built a track record of advancing the industry’s strategic goals through data-driven insights, tackling key issues, including consumer perceptions, economic trends, taxation, sports betting, responsible gaming, and regulatory challenges.

Severin said, “I look forward to bringing my international background and association research expertise to HFA and its members. Having spent time in the Swedish military, I know well the importance of physical and mental health, and as an avid cyclist and athlete, I am excited to merge my passion with my profession and support an industry working to improve lives.”

The HFA, founded in 1981, is a worldwide trade association that represents members who operate health and fitness facilities, offers professional guidance on physical activity, and provides facility members with tools and equipment. Through advocacy, education, and research, the association addresses the opportunities, challenges and changes to transform the industry into a new era.

Image courtesy Anton Severin/LinkedIn