FitnessGenes is built by scientists, advisors and champions who believe precision longevity should be for everyone.
Scientists, engineers and specialists who turn cutting-edge genomics into guidance you can act on.
Dr Vallance-Owen is a trained surgeon, having graduated from Birmingham University with an MBChB in medicine. He held the positions of Medical Director and Chief Medical Officer at BUPA, the UK's largest private healthcare provider, for 17 years and received an MBE in 2014 for services to healthcare. In addition to his role as Chairman, Andrew is a valuable advisor to and spokesperson for the company.
Co-founder Sam has held the position of CEO since 2020. A native west-midlander, she completed both her BSc and PhD at the University of Birmingham; specializing in Biological Sciences and Genetics respectively. A mother of two juggling a busy work-life balance, Sam uses her FitnessGenes results to tailor her resistance and cardio workouts when she's not playing for her local netball team.
Co-founder Stuart received his PhD in neuroscience from the University of Oxford, before joining the renowned institution's Functional Genomics Department as a post-doctoral researcher. A former competitive rower and 8-time marathon finisher, Stuart now applies his deep understanding of genomics and complex biological systems to build new solutions for our members and drive the company's scientific vision.
With 15+ years of software development experience, Simon has modernised many of FitnessGenes' core systems — most notably rebuilding the TrueTraits engine from a slower batch model into a real-time trait analytics engine — and has delivered solutions generating millions in revenue. As CTO, he oversees infrastructure, platform, and AI strategy.
Nathan received his PhD in Biological & Bioprocess Engineering from the University of Sheffield in 2015 before joining the FitnessGenes science team as a Researcher. In 2019 he took up a role in our Technology team, helping bridge the gap between the Science and Technology teams.
Olatz is a Geneticist with a particular interest in nature, nurture, and how they interact to shape our health. She completed her PhD in Genetic Epidemiology at King's College London. A former member of the Spanish U21 track team, she applies her expertise to help develop a better understanding of ourselves.
After originally joining as an intern, Geraldine has progressed through the science team to now oversee all new research and releases. In addition to her MSc in Clinical Exercise Physiology, she is a certified Exercise Physiologist (ACSM), and is therefore pivotal in the delivery of recommendations.
Pierpaolo leads the development and implementation of FitnessGenes' go-to-market strategy, with a primary focus on driving growth for the company's B2B SaaS platform. He oversees strategic planning, execution, and growth initiatives to expand FitnessGenes' reach across the health and fitness industry.
One of FitnessGenes' first full-time employees, Alex rejoined the company in 2021 after completing his MA in Global Communications at the University of London. He now oversees all customer communications. An accomplished triathlete, you can expect to find him in the pool, on the bike, or running laps of his local park most weekends.
Al is responsible for identifying and connecting with new partners who wish to bring cutting-edge DNA insights to their clients. He acts as the primary point of contact between partners and the FitnessGenes platform, supporting them every step of the way on their journey with us.
Carrie is, more often than not, the first port of call for any customers looking for assistance. A hugely experienced team member with vast company and industry knowledge, Carrie holds the team to the standard of complete customer satisfaction at all times.
Hannah is responsible for organising most things at FitnessGenes, from coordinating board meetings and team socials to liaising with companies on tax and insurance. She's the first port of call for any HR queries and is always there to support anyone who needs it.
Kelsey holds a BSc in Sport and Exercise Science (University of Winchester) and works as part of the science team, carrying out research for trait and action creation and blog content — also supporting customer service, website changes, and even taking company headshots.