At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and develop a high-performing spa team while overseeing operations and guest experiences.
- Company: Sopwell House, a luxury hotel and award-winning spa in Hertfordshire.
- Benefits: Discounted food, accommodation, spa treatments, plus 28 days holiday and a birthday day off.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace celebrating diversity and offering excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Join a prestigious spa and make a real impact on guest experiences and team culture.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in spa management with strong leadership and communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Sopwell House is a beautiful luxury Georgian country house hotel and spa located in the heart of Hertfordshire. Set within 12 acres of serene countryside, just 20 minutes from London St Pancras, the hotel offers 126 stylish rooms and suites, an award-winning spa, and a range of exceptional dining experiences. Our commitment to personalised service, attention to detail, and warm hospitality has made Sopwell House a standout destination for both leisure and business guests.
Cottonmill Spa is a luxurious sanctuary featuring state-of-the-art facilities and indulgent spa experiences delivered by world-class experts. Thoughtfully designed spaces provide areas for relaxation following treatments, from private gardens and poolside terraces to cabanas, hot tubs, and fire pits woven seamlessly into a beautifully landscaped oasis.
We are looking for an exceptional Spa Director to take the helm of this multi-award-winning destination – someone who can match the ambition of the investment with world-class leadership, commercial discipline and an unwavering focus on guest and member experience. Reporting to the General Manager and sitting on the hotel’s senior leadership team, the Spa Director holds full accountability for the Cottonmill Spa P&L – leading both Cottonmill Spa and the exclusive Club at Cottonmill.
You will oversee every aspect of the operation, including treatments, programmes, retail, fitness and membership services, working with your management team to deliver an outstanding experience for guests and members while continually improving financial performance. This role calls for a commercially astute, highly visible leader – someone equally comfortable analysing a P&L, coaching a therapist, walking the floor each morning, or representing the spa at industry events.
Your role in our Family:
- Recruit, motivate, lead and develop the spa team
- Foster a motivated, high performing team and a positive working culture
- Own the spa’s annual budget and full P&L, managing revenue, costs, payroll and cost of sale across treatments and retail
- Develop and execute strategies to hit revenue targets, ensuring every promotion is costed, approved and tracked for profitability
- Set and uphold the highest standards across the spa ensuring a warm, personalised and consistent experience throughout every stay
- Build and deliver a quarterly spa marketing and activity plan in partnership with the hotel’s marketing team
- Represent the spa within the hotel’s senior leadership team and at wider industry engagements
What makes you the perfect fit?
- Proven experience as a Director of Spa, or Senior Spa management
- Strong leadership, organisational, and people management skill with appetite to develop high performing teams
- Track record in improving service standards, training programs, and SOP implementation
- Excellent communication skills with a guest-focused approach
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment while maintaining attention to detail
The Best Bit:
- Discounted Food, Beverage and accommodation
- 28 days holiday, plus an extra day off on your birthday
- 30% discount on spa treatments and spa days
- 10% discount on spa products
- Hotel discounts through our Pride of Britain affiliation
Sopwell House is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all team members.
Director of Spa employer: Sopwell House
Sopwell House is an exceptional employer, offering a unique blend of luxury and opportunity in the heart of Hertfordshire. With a commitment to personalised service and a warm, inclusive work culture, employees benefit from extensive training and development opportunities, alongside competitive perks such as discounted spa treatments and additional holiday on their birthday. Join us at Sopwell House, where your leadership can shine in a stunning environment that prioritises both guest satisfaction and employee well-being.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Spa
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like Sopwell House. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Sopwell House
Don't be shy about reaching out to Sopwell House directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Spa
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about Sopwell House and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sopwell House
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!
