In the latest instalment of our HR industry executive interview series we spoke to Matt Hatcher, Hussle’s Director of Business Development, how employers are managing rising costs, the potential of people-centric employee benefits, striking a balance between financial sustainability and employee satisfaction, and how Generative AI is transforming HR processes…
Tell us about your company, products and services
At Hussle, we make fitness more accessible and flexible for employees across the UK. We offer a nationwide network of gyms, pools, spas, and fitness classes, all available with a single discounted pass. Our platform is designed to support both employers and employees—helping businesses attract and retain talent while boosting workplace productivity, wellbeing, and engagement. Employees benefit from complete flexibility, with no contracts or joining fees, so they can work out when, where, and how they choose.
What have been the biggest challenges the Human Resources industry has faced over the past 12 months?
One of the biggest challenges has been navigating new budget constraints, with rising employer costs putting pressure on HR teams. Increased costs—whether through changes in national insurance, minimum wage hikes, or overall economic shifts—have made it harder for businesses to allocate resources effectively while still meeting employee expectations. At the same time, employees are demanding more from their workplace benefits, particularly around wellbeing, flexibility, and mental health support. Balancing these financial pressures while maintaining an attractive and competitive benefits package has been a key challenge for HR leaders.
And what have been the biggest opportunities?
HR teams have had a real opportunity to rethink traditional benefits and introduce more flexible, people-centric solutions. There’s a growing recognition that workplace wellness isn’t just a ‘nice to have’—it directly impacts productivity, retention, and overall business performance. Companies that invest in meaningful benefits, like flexible fitness solutions, mental health support, and other related initiatives, are positioning themselves as forward-thinking employers. This shift has also allowed HR professionals to embrace technology and data-driven decision-making to better understand and meet employee needs.
What is the biggest priority for the Human Resources industry in 2025?
In 2025, a major priority for HR teams will be finding cost-effective ways to enhance employee wellbeing while managing rising employer costs. There are many areas companies are focusing on, but fitness—especially a low-cost fitness solution for the entire employee base—can be a great way to offset recent cost increases. Offering accessible wellness benefits not only helps businesses maintain an attractive employee value proposition but also contributes to a healthier, more engaged workforce. Striking the right balance between financial sustainability and employee satisfaction will be key.
What are the main trends you are expecting to see in the market in 2025?
HR teams will see a stronger integration of AI and technology, particularly in recruitment, performance management, and employee engagement. AI-powered tools will streamline processes, providing HR professionals with data-driven insights to enhance decision-making and improve overall efficiency.
At the same time, there will be a shift towards more people-centred HR, with organisations prioritising personalised employee experiences, flexible benefits, and wellbeing-first cultures. Companies will need to invest in strategies that enhance job satisfaction, company culture, and overall employee wellness to attract and retain top talent.
Work-life balance and flexibility will also remain a key focus, with more businesses exploring hybrid working models. These approaches have already shown promising results in terms of productivity and employee happiness, making them an essential part of future HR strategies.
What technology is going to have the biggest impact on the market this year?
AI is undoubtedly the biggest game-changer. Generative AI, in particular, is transforming HR processes—from streamlining recruitment to personalising employee experiences. Beyond AI, we’re also seeing a rise in wellbeing technology, with digital tools, wellness apps, and flexible fitness platforms like Hussle helping companies create more effective and inclusive wellbeing programs. As businesses continue to prioritise employee health and engagement, the adoption of these technologies will only accelerate.
In 2026 we’ll all be talking about…?
Here at Hussle, preventative healthcare will be at the forefront of our conversations. Companies are increasingly recognising the importance of addressing employee wellbeing before health issues arise, rather than waiting until it’s too late. This shift is especially significant as organisations begin to cater more specifically to younger demographics like Gen Z, who have unique needs when it comes to mental health, flexibility, and overall wellness. At Hussle, we’ve seen firsthand how prioritising employee wellbeing – through accessible, affordable, and flexible fitness solutions – can make a real difference. By providing employees with easy access to wellness services, companies can encourage healthier, happier, and more productive teams, which will be a key focus for organisations moving forward in 2025 and beyond.
Which person in, or associated with, the Human Resources industry would you most like to meet?
There are quite a few influential figures in HR, but if I had to pick one, I’d say Patty McCord, the former Chief Talent Officer at Netflix. She co-created Netflix’s famous Culture Deck, which revolutionized how companies approach workplace culture, performance, and employee freedom. Her book Powerful challenges traditional HR practices and emphasizes treating employees like responsible adults rather than micromanaging them.
What’s the most surprising thing you’ve learnt about the Human Resources sector?
One of the most surprising things about HR is how much employee experience and wellbeing impact business performance. Many companies used to think of HR as just handling hiring, payroll, and compliance, but now there’s a huge focus on creating workplaces where people feel valued, engaged, and happy.
Studies have shown that companies that invest in employee wellbeing, physical & mental health, and work-life balance see higher productivity, lower turnover, and even increased profitability. It turns out that taking care of people isn’t just good ethics, it’s good business too.
You go to the bar at the HR Summit – what’s your tipple of choice?
Representing a fitness company at the HR Summit it would have to be a Guinness 0% – in my opinion the best alcohol-free beer there is. I do enjoy a beer, but also make sure to use my Hussle membership with a gym session on the way home – it’s all about finding the right balance!
What’s the most exciting thing about your job?
The most exciting part of my job at Hussle is the opportunity to directly impact the health and wellbeing of employees across the country. It’s incredibly rewarding to help companies improve employee satisfaction and productivity by providing easy access to wellness resources. Additionally, I love that my passion for fitness aligns perfectly with what I do. Fitness is not just a job for me – it’s a personal passion. I get to combine my love for fitness with creating solutions that promote healthier lifestyles in the workplace. Being able to connect my hobby with my professional work is a huge source of satisfaction for me, and it’s what keeps me motivated every day.
And what’s the most challenging?
The most challenging aspect of my job is navigating the balance between offering affordable, flexible wellness solutions and meeting the diverse needs of all employees. With budgets tightening and organisations facing increasing pressures, it’s a challenge to design solutions that are both cost-effective and offer real value to both employers and employees. Finding the right fit for each organisation’s unique needs can be complex, but it’s also what makes my work so dynamic and fulfilling.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
“People may forget what you said, but they’ll never forget how you made them feel.”
This is especially relevant in HR, leadership, and life in general. The way you treat people—whether in hiring, performance reviews, or daily interactions—has a lasting impact. Creating a culture of trust, respect, and empathy can transform a workplace.
An experienced sales director who’s been working with employee focussed solutions for the last 10 years and has spent the last 7 in the wellbeing space introducing preventative and crisis management tools to companies and their employees globally. Matt joined Hussle mid summer 2024 to lead and grow the corporate sales team. He is a family man with a huge passion for fitness and helping people live healthier lives.
