spa director diaries

" I’m writing down my spa experiences because I want to share them with the next generation of spa directors. Over the years, as a spa director, I often got so caught up in daily operations that I forgot one of my most important roles: to lead by sharing knowledge and fostering all aspects of wellness—not just for the guests, but for myself and my team as well.

Every spa team should aim to ensure their guests leave feeling more enriched than when they arrived. Even with the short time spa-goers spend with us, we have so many ways to make a lasting impression. Something as simple as offering a healthy drink, an aloe ice cube for the pool, or a beautiful water jar decorated with rosemary and citrus can create moments of joy and wonder.

As leaders, our role goes beyond running the spa; it’s about sparking curiosity in our teams. By introducing them to unique wellness practices like balneotherapy, music therapy, or mindfulness techniques from around the world, we broaden their horizons and enrich their understanding of wellness.

Through sharing these stories, I hope to inspire future spa leaders to stay curious, lead by example, and never stop learning. Every time you travel, experience wellness firsthand. Self-educate about global practices, become an expert in the field, and represent your spa not just within its walls but throughout your company and beyond."

Cecilia Hercik

With over 25 years of experience in resort and day spa management, Cecilia Hercik has held key roles in prestigious organizations including Ritz-Carlton, Aveda, Waldorf Astoria, WTS International, Miraval, and Four Seasons Resorts. Fluent in English and Spanish, she's also a certified Nutritional Consultant.

Starting at Ritz-Carlton, she climbed the ranks to become the inaugural Executive Spa Director in New Orleans. Later, she oversaw operations at Spa Grande, Grand Wailea. Joining WTS International, she managed spas in Hawaii. She founded C-SPA, and later served as Executive Director of Spa and Wellness at Four Seasons Resorts Hualalai in Hawaii and Sea Island in Georgia.

Cecilia's leadership drove the opening of ten Ritz-Carlton Spas and six Aveda-Estee Lauder Day Spas globally. She's a member of ISPA, served as President of Hi-Spa, and contributed to Maui’s Hui Hoaloha "The Pink (for cancer) Paddlers. Her impact on the spa industry is profound.

Using an interim spa director can be beneficial for several reasons:

1. Continuity in Leadership: If your spa director unexpectedly leaves or takes a temporary leave, hiring an interim director ensures there's minimal disruption to daily operations.
2. Experience: Interim spa directors typically have extensive experience in the spa industry.
3. Fresh Perspective: Sometimes, an outsider's perspective can be valuable in identifying areas for improvement within your spa.
4. Recruitment Support: An interim directors can assist in the recruitment process for a permanent spa director.
5. Training your new Spa Director: Invest in one-on-one industry training for a recent promoted spa leader.

Overall, utilizing an interim spa director can help maintain stability, drive innovation, and facilitate a smooth transition during times of change within your spa.