How many years have you been involved in the spa/hospitality industry?
I have been in the industry for 35 years. Next year, I will be celebrating my 25th anniversary with Elemis.
What was the path that led you into the spa industry?
I trained in Ireland, where I attained CIDESCO and ITEC, enabling me to open my own salon in Cork. From here, I moved to Dublin to work as a beauty therapist while studying for a business qualification and teaching beauty therapy in the evenings. I was keen to learn about holistic therapy and traveled to New York where I studied shiatsu, reflexology, and aromatherapy for three years. Upon completion of my studies, I returned to the UK to manage the Beauty Spa (Harvey Nichols, London). In 1990, I joined Elemis, where I created the first face and body spa therapies, embracing all of my skills, experiences, and personal values.
What has surprised you most about working in the spa industry?
The pace it moves, which demands constant innovation and creativity.
What is your proudest accomplishment?
Being part of Elemis, the best British brand as recently awarded by the CEW in the UK, and when I received my Cosmetic Executive Women (CEW) achiever award.
Where do you think the industry is heading?
It’s returning back to great client care, delivering in-depth consultation and designing products that make a difference.
What’s your go-to spa treatment?
My go-to spa treatment is the Elemis Face and Body Sensation. It’s 30 minutes of the best in face combined with the best in body, and nothing beats a good pedicure.
What’s your favorite skincare product?
My favorite skincare product is the Pro-Collagen Marine Cream, and if I could have another, it would be the Cellular Recovery Skin Bliss Capsules.
Tell us two things about yourself we don’t know.
I enjoy being a mother, I sing and play guitar—it has always been a passion and source of comfort. I also swim five times a week in the morning—I’m an early bird.
If you could work in any other profession in the world, what would you be?
I would be an opera singer.
What’s the best advice you’ve received?
Never lose sight of the dream.