Planet Fitness Welcomes Sudhanshu Priyadarshi as CFO and President, International Division
Major Leadership Change at Planet Fitness
In a significant move for the fitness industry, Planet Fitness, Inc., a leader in the fitness franchising sector, has announced the appointment of Sudhanshu Priyadarshi as Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and President of the international segment. This decision comes at a time when the company is strategically focusing on expanding its global footprint.
Mr. Priyadarshi’s impressive career spans more than 25 years, where he has developed a reputation for driving value creation within consumer-oriented businesses. Before joining Planet Fitness, he was the CFO and President of International at Keurig Dr Pepper, where he successfully led initiatives that fostered growth and reinforced the company's international operations. His extensive background also includes key roles at renowned companies such as PepsiCo, Walmart, Flexport, and Vista Outdoor, allowing him to cultivate a diverse skill set that integrates finance, operations, and strategic management.
Experience and Transition
In his new role, Sudhanshu will take charge of the finance, investor relations, strategy, and IT functions at Planet Fitness while spearheading the company’s international endeavors. Tom Fitzgerald, who previously held the position of interim CFO, will remain with the organization as an advisor throughout a transition period ending in mid-September 2026. This move is designed to ensure that the handover of responsibilities takes place smoothly and without disruption.
CEO Colleen Keating expressed her enthusiasm about Mr. Priyadarshi joining the team, highlighting his results-driven mindset and analytical skills. In her statement, she noted, "Sudhanshu's clear track record of driving growth will support Planet Fitness' focus on financial and operational execution and reinforce our position as the industry leader in accessible and high-value fitness."
Vision for the Future
Facing the challenge of maintaining its status in a competitive marketplace, Sudhanshu Priyadarshi’s vision for Planet Fitness is centered on enhancing the brand promise of delivering high-value and accessible fitness to its members. His global experience spans over 80 countries, encompassing extensive management of multi-billion-dollar businesses, which positions him well to support the company’s ongoing expansion.
In response to his new appointment, Priyadarshi remarked, "I look forward to serving as CFO and leading the international business as we look to expand the Company's reach and drive sustainable growth and value-creation." His expertise in investor engagement and capital management will be instrumental in implementing strategies that focus not only on growth but also on executing profitable operations for the benefit of franchisees and shareholders alike.
About Planet Fitness
Founded in 1992 in Dover, New Hampshire, Planet Fitness has rapidly become one of the world's largest and fastest-growing fitness center franchisors, with approximately 21.5 million members and 2,909 clubs worldwide as of March 31, 2026. The company prides itself on promoting a welcoming, non-intimidating gym environment, referred to as the “Judgment Free Zone®.” Notably, about 90% of Planet Fitness clubs are independently owned and operated, highlighting the company’s expansive franchise model.
Conclusion
The appointment of Sudhanshu Priyadarshi signifies a strategic shift for Planet Fitness as it seeks to bolster its operations and broaden its market reach. Under his guidance, the company anticipates a reinvigorated focus on expansion while continuing to meet the evolving needs of its members and franchise partners.