Meet Teresa O’Farrell, global head of wellness and spa for Dorchester Collection, which consists of 10 hotels around the world, including The Dorchester (London), 45 Park Lane (London), Coworth Park (Ascot, England), The Lana (Dubai), Le Meurice (Paris), Hotel Plaza Athenee (Paris), Hotel Eden (Rome), Hotel Principe di Savoia (Milan), The Beverly Hills Hotel (Los Angeles), and Hotel Bel-Air (Los Angeles).
How many years have you been involved in the spa/hospitality industry?
I originally trained as an ITEC therapist more than 30 years ago and opened my own holistic salon that I owned and managed while my children were growing up. My passion for spa and wellness led me to work at The Grove Hotel (Hertfordshire, England) where I worked my way up to a leadership position. From there, I held head of department roles at both Luton Hoo (Bedfordshire, England) and Sopwell House (St. Albans, England) hotels. I joined Dorchester Collection in 2018 as spa director at Coworth Park.
What was the path that led you into the spa industry?
I have always had a deep understanding of the holistic benefits that spa treatments can have on someone’s overall wellness. I knew that it would only be a matter of time before this would be recognized by health professionals. The pandemic also highlighted the need for wellness, and people’s focus then became about mental wellness and long-term wellness goals. This is ultimately what led me on the path to a wellness career.
What are the most challenging and rewarding parts of being in the spa industry?
One of the most challenging things at the moment is resourcing. The industry is crying out for more spa and wellness professionals particularly now with a focus on holistic trained practitioners. The rewards are daily when you see the difference you have made to someone’s wellbeing as they leave the spa in a more relaxed mindset.
What is your proudest accomplishment?
For me, it is all about mentoring and working with the most incredible team members and coaching their development to grow as industry professionals. During the COVID disruption period, we won n award for the best response to COVID, which demonstrated our focus on our people during this uncertain time. This was a real team effort and everyone contributed to this unique award and recognition.
What has surprised you most about working in the spa industry?
Initially, what surprised me most was the lack of recognition that spa treatments and team could provide for the overall wellness of people. You could physically see guests shoulders drop and stress ease away as they relax and enjoyed their spa time. Now, spa and wellness is seen as much more than a feel good luxury and more of a necessity for peoples overall health and wellbeing both physically and mentally.
Where do you think the industry is heading?
We have exciting times ahead. The foundations are there now for the industry to work alongside health professionals to provide alternative health care for all with a major focus on preventative health options. There are some exciting wellness technologies that will play a huge part in the future of wellness treatments.
What’s your favorite skincare ingredient?
It is actually seaweed. At Coworth Park, we work with a brand called Ishga. The potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of seaweed are incredible.
What positions have you worked in that you feel have been most influential to your career?
Firstly, running my own business gave me a deep understanding of the importance of team culture and investment in building and developing your team. Following on from this, I have been extremely fortunate to have gained different skills and development at each of the hotels I have worked in as I always had great leadership examples throughout. The position I have within Dorchester Collection has been the most influential to my career as they recognize and develop talent and provide the opportunity for people to grow into leadership roles. The “we care” culture is evident in everything that we do.
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?
I think my biggest decision was to step away from my career path as a therapist in my late 30's to move into a front-of-house role within hospitality. This was certainly an example of reflecting on where I wanted my career to go and taking a step back to understand more about the overall operations of a spa in order to help me pursue and achieve a future spa management and wellness leadership career. It has been an exciting and rewarding experience, and although this meant working longer and more unsociable hours, I have certainly learned so much more and been able to continue my personal development each step of the way.
If you could work in any other profession in the world, what would you be?
I had an interest at one point in training to be a physiotherapist and work in rehabilitation so probably in healthcare.
How would you sum up your personal philosophy?
Your health is your wealth so take the time to look after yourself and for self-care, plus cherish, support, and care for your loved ones and others who you can benefit from your guidance.
How do you like to spend your time away from work?
When I am not working, my partner and I love to go traveling. We love experiencing new cultures and environments. I love spending time with my children, family, and close friends, as well as taking some time for exercise and relaxation.
What are your three greatest priorities in life?
To make a difference in all that I do in relation to family and friends, my contribution to spa and wellness of people and our planet, and to enjoy a fun and fulfilled life.
What’s the best advice you’ve received?
To pursue your dreams and believe in yourself, don’t give up, and learn from challenges you face along the way. Do the right thing and the right path will open for you.