NEW YORK -- Town Sports International (TSI) announced today it has named former PepsiCo executive J. Russell Findlay to its new position of vice president, sales and marketing.

Findlay will be responsible for all marketing, branding, corporate communications and public relations activity for the New York-based company, which operates New York Sports Clubs, Boston Sports Clubs, Philadelphia Sports Clubs and Washington Sports Clubs. He will report to TSI Chief Operating Officer Martin Annese.

Findlay spent the last eight years at PepsiCo, most recently as its director of marketing for all soft drink innovation. In his tenure at PepsiCo, Findlay was responsible for launching Diet Pepsi Max and Sierra Mist.

Before his time at PepsiCo, Findlay spent 10 years in a variety of marketing and management roles with Unilever, one of the world’s largest food companies.

“Hiring someone with Russ’ skill set, experience and proven track record in sales and marketing—18 years at two of the world’s top consumer products companies—is a big win for Town Sports International,” TSI CEO Alex Alimanestianu said in a statement. “We expect his energy and top-level experience to contribute heavily to continued company growth and customer satisfaction.”

Findlay said in the statement: “I am honored Town Sports International has entrusted me with this exciting opportunity. This position uniquely blends my professional experience with my personal passion for sports, fitness and wellness, which resonates well with TSI’s mission. I look forward to joining the team and building upon the company’s strong reputation to better serve and expand our customer base.”

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