Our Team of Dedicated Professions
Our team brings together seasoned professionals who are not only experts in their fields but also devoted advocates of fitness and well-being, forming the welcoming, supportive heart of the HENCH community.
Conor Johnson BA (Hons), PN.
Head Strength Coach
Conor holds a degree in Sports Development with Coaching, as well as multiple qualifications from leading training institutions. He has nearly a decade of diverse coaching experience across Strength and Conditioning, Nutrition Coaching, and Programme Design. Conor’s passion for fitness was sparked by competitive Judo, then led him overseas to Qatar to help establish and manage a gym. A dedicated athlete himself, he consistently ranked in the top 20 in Ireland for the CrossFit Open from 2016 to 2020, reflecting his unwavering commitment to the industry.
He believes in a science-based, individualised approach that starts with mastering the fundamentals, establishing reliable habits, and adapting training to each person’s evolving goals. As the Head Strength Coach, Conor leads our team to provide exceptional member experiences and has guided countless HENCH members to outstanding results through both his coaching and mentorship.
Jay Malcolm BSc (Hons), PN.
Senior Strength Coach
Jay graduated from Ulster University with a degree in Sport and Exercise Sciences and has undertaken various fitness and strength coaching qualifications. His interest in strength training began in his teenage years, initially focused on athletic performance. Over time, this perspective broadened, and he came to appreciate how strength work enhances both mental and physical well-being.
Driven by a desire to make training enjoyable and effective, Jay employs evidence-based methods that help members overcome challenges and see tangible progress. He’s especially adept at introducing beginners to strength training, guiding them step by step to build confidence, resilience, and a lasting passion for fitness.
Joseph McGreevy BSc (Hons), MSc, CSCS.
Strength Coach
Joe is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) through the NSCA, holds a Masters in Strength and Conditioning from Ulster University, and has recently been accepted onto a Sport & Exercise Science PhD programme. His background includes coaching Rugby, Gaelic, and Netball teams, alongside practical expertise in Powerlifting and Hypertrophy/Bodybuilding training. A former Football and Gaelic player, Joe discovered a deep interest in strength work and its underlying science, prompting him to change career paths after originally studying and working in Computer Science.
His approach to coaching is grounded in research yet remains accessible, aiming to make every session both productive and engaging. By working closely with the other HENCH coaches, Joe ensures our members benefit from well-rounded, scientifically backed training programmes. His hands-on experience and academic foundation enrich our team and drive better outcomes for everyone.
Bronagh Donnelly BSc (Hons)
Strength Coach
Bronagh holds a Sport & Exercise Science degree and is a Qualified Olympic Weightlifting Coach. She’s also completed various sports-related courses, bringing over a decade of coaching experience to HENCH. Growing up, she encountered body shaming, struggled with food, and faced overtraining—all of which led her to explore the true significance of balanced nutrition, strength, and a healthy body image.
Through these personal experiences, Bronagh has become a passionate advocate for training that builds strength and confidence from the inside out. She encourages everyone to move and live well, believing the benefits of consistent training—like improved mobility, stability, and self-esteem—have a lasting impact beyond the gym. She’s particularly interested in women’s health and the transformative power of strength and balance work.
Ciara Bailey BA (Hons), AdvDip.
General Manager
Ciara is a Business graduate from Ulster University with extensive experience in management and customer service. Before joining HENCH, she worked across the retail and leisure sectors, developing the organisational skills that now keep our operations running smoothly and efficiently. From day one, Ciara has been an integral part of shaping HENCH’s vision, working alongside Rory to create an environment where every member and team member feels valued.
Her passion lies in ensuring the best possible experience for all. Ciara’s ability to bring people together, maintain high standards, and oversee strategic growth is pivotal to HENCH’s success. She remains dedicated to carrying out our mission of helping people become stronger for life, all while upholding the positive culture that defines us.
Rory Girvan BSc (Hons), AdvDip. PN
Founder
Rory comes from an academic background in Biomedical Science and Sport and Exercise Sciences, is qualified in Nutrition Coaching, and has dedicated decades to coaching and training. His sporting achievements include powerlifting titles (becoming the first overall IPF Powerlifting champion for NI, Ireland, and All-Ireland, and a silver medallist at the Drug-Free World Powerlifting Championships), weightlifting honours (NI Open Champion at 80 kg), and high-level amateur MMA. Alongside his dedication to physical fitness, he advocates for mental health, working as an ambassador for charities such as Inspire and TAMHI.
Inspired by his own 70 lb weight loss journey, Rory believes wholeheartedly in the transformative power of strength training and good nutritional habits. His leadership shapes the HENCH methodology, continually guiding our coaching practices to new heights. As The Irish News’ Fitness Columnist, he also shares his knowledge more widely, helping others discover the profound impact of strength on both body and mind.
Join Us
Careers at HENCH
A journey that began in 2012, we have helped thousands of people fall in love with strength training by considering the pursuit as something to learn, master and enjoy for a lifetime. We’ve expanded, innovated, and now stand as one of the fastest-growing and most renowned strength coaching gyms in the UK and Ireland.
Pursue your career as part of a team of like-minded, ambitious, fun, curious, professional and down-to-earth people who are as passionate about the ability for strength training to change lives as you are.
WE’RE ON A MISSION…
To find those who see strength training as having a deeper purpose in people’s lives! While HENCH is scaling up and on the lookout for:
- Trainee Strength Coach
- Junior Strength Coach
We’re searching for those who resonate with our core values and purpose.
What makes a HENCH team member?
Role Modelling: Talking the talk and walking the walk.
Beginner’s Mind: Leaving the ego at the door to clear the path to continually learn and grow.
Strive for Excellence: Seeking the best tools, knowledge, or skills to do the best work with our members.
Professionalism: Going the extra mile, and holding the standard whilst remaining down-to-earth.
Craic: When your passion, purpose and career are aligned what else is there to do but enjoy the ride?
Our mission: To help each individual we work with become stronger for life.
If you believe in our purpose and embody our values —submit your application below.