Meet Sabine Schanzenbach, director of spa at The Dolder Grand Spa, who has been in the spa and hospitality industry for 15 years.
What was the path that led you into the spa industry?
My passion and enthusiasm for sports, wellness, and relaxation is what led me into the spa industry.
What are the most challenging and rewarding parts of being in the spa industry?
The most challenging parts are maintaining good employee retention and development. The most rewarding part is having to maintain a high level of service to guests.
What is your proudest accomplishment?
I am most proud of my professional development including my promotion to director of spa at The Dolder Grand Spa as well as The Dolder Grand Spa’s many awards such as being named Switzerland’s Best Day Spa of 2022 by World Spa Awards.
What has surprised you most about working in the spa industry?
What has surprised me the most about the spa industry is that there are always surprises. Every day brings a new one and that is what excites me.
Where do you think the industry is heading?
The industry will continue to flourish and head more into improvement of the body, mind, and soul.
What’s your favorite skincare ingredient?
My favorite skincare ingredient is collagen, which is found in our body and provides moisture, strengthen, and elasticity to tissues and organs.
What positions have you worked in that you feel have been most influential to your career?
I feel most influential in my role now as director of spa as I get to work alongside spa director, Therese Martirena, who has been influential to me and my professional development.
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?
In 2015, I left The Dolder Grand to open a small spa. Shortly after, I realized I missed the atmosphere and variety at The Dolder Grand Spa, so I returned in 2016.
If you could work in any other profession in the world, what would you be?
I always wanted to work as a detective.
How would you sum up your personal philosophy?
Treat people the way I’d like to be treated
How do you like to spend your time away from work?
When away from work, I spend time traveling to different countries. My favorite country thus far is South Africa. I also enjoy dining out and hosting my family and friends at home.
What are your three greatest priorities in life?
My greatest priorities in life are my physical health, quality time with friends and family, and my faith.
What’s the best advice you’ve received?
The best advice I’ve received is to be myself.