The Y appoints Richard Quail as new General Manager of Kingswim

The Y (YMCA) and its executive team have announced the appointment of Richard (Rich) Quail as General Manager at Kingswim.

Quail’s appointment is extra special having started his professional career at the Y back in 2011 and progressing into various leadership roles over more than ten years. His more recent positions at the Australian Football League (AFL), leading the Safeguarding Children functions and NAB AFL Auskick, further solidify his wealth of experience and alignment to the General Manager role.

Carolyn Morris, the Y’s Chief Executive noted “having started his journey with the Y, Rich embodies our values and vision, and his return feels like welcoming a valued family member back home. Rich’s extensive experience and passion for water safety will undoubtedly drive Kingswim to new heights, benefiting countless young Australians. We are thrilled to have him lead our team and look forward to the positive impact he will continue to make.”

Having previously led some of the Y’s most successful locations, Quail exemplifies the Y’s ability to develop people. It has also allowed him to see how swimming lessons and water safety education can make a difference for young Australians. With Kingswim’s longstanding proven approach, Quail is motivated to help the brand he knows so well continue to grow.

In his role, Quail leads with compassion, expertise, and a strong commitment to growing Kingswim’s presence and impact. As a hands-on leader, he looks forward to supporting and empowering the talented Kingswim team made up of over 900 people across 22 locations.

Quail shared “I’ve seen first-hand the industry leading approach Kingswim takes, and the opportunity to support the team and brand to further the positive impact they have on over 30,000 kids a week is one I am incredibly excited about.

“The demand for swimming lessons is high despite cost-of-living pressures, and with the powerhouse of the Y’s business enabling services, I am looking forward to supporting the continuous improvement mindset of our current teams and sites, and growing our services in priority markets into the future.”

Quail knows how important social connection, routine, and the sense of achievement are for children learning water safety skills. As a dedicated parent of three, he is committed to creating a nurturing environment where every child can learn and have fun. Quail fully embraces the Kingswim ethos with his children attending weekly classes at their local Centre for the last few years. He enjoys watching their growth and development in a safe and supportive setting. 

Whether it's seeing Kingswim families thrive, supporting his team members in their roles, or witnessing the positive changes these skills bring to children's lives, Quail’s dedication to helping others and providing a safe environment for children to learn drives him.

Quail officially assumed his role as General Manager at Kingswim in March 2024.

ABOUT KINGSWIM
With 22 locations across Australia, Kingswim is one of the country’s leading providers of swimming lessons and aquatic education, dedicated to helping families develop essential water skills. With a focus on safety, skill development, and a love for swimming, Kingswim aims to create a lifelong affinity for the water. The swim school’s experienced instructors, comprehensive facilities, and industry-leading program ensure a positive and engaging swimming experience for every student.

Recent pivotal program launched have included the free Water Safety Program (available to all Australians) and the Adult Learn To Swim Program

For more information about Kingswim Australia and its programs, visit www.kingswim.com.au//