Meet Roxanne Khairzada, spa director of Well & Being Spa at The Westin Dallas Stonebriar Golf Resort & Spa, who has 18 years of spa/hospitality experience and 18 years of management experience.
What was the path that led you into the spa industry?
In 2005, I moved to Texas from New Jersey with 18 years of retail management experience. My mom's hairstylist referred me to Grand Spa in Dallas and that is where it started.
What are the most challenging and rewarding parts of being in the spa industry?
The best part is that I get to meet amazing people with different wellness needs and how to heal them.
What is your proudest accomplishment?
Moving to this country from Afghanistan with my mom and sister, learning the language/culture, and raising two beautiful kids with the help of my supportive husband who was always there to help me achieve my career goals.
What has surprised you most about working in the spa industry?
How much it is changing and how the treatments/spa offering are elevated.
Where do you think the industry is heading?
More toward wellness. The spa is not only about pampering anymore but more about healing therapies for the mind and body.
Was there a time you had to make a decision in your career that ended up changing your destiny? How did you handle that challenge and what was your thought process?
My dream job was to become a buyer someday and I had the opportunity to become one. Unfortunately, it was not what I expected it to be. I lasted only about one year, then I went back to what I loved and enjoyed the most, which was a spa director.
If you could work in any other profession in the world, what would you be?
To become a personal shopper
How would you sum up your personal philosophy?
Work hard and treat people how you wanted to be treated. Smile, enjoy, and be grateful for what you have because life is too short.
How do you like to spend your time away from work?
Shopping, cooking, and going to the gym.
What are your three greatest priorities in life?
Love, laugh, and travel.
What’s the best advice you’ve received?
Everything happens in life for a reason.