Task Force Spa Director

Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa•Rancho Santa Fe, CA

5d•Onsite

About The Position

Rancho Valencia is seeking an experienced luxury spa leader for a temporary Task Force assignment from September through April. This role provides senior leadership and operational oversight of a high-volume Spa and Salon operation, supporting a team of over 70 professionals. The position is designed to offer experienced, hands-on leadership during a defined period, ensuring continuity, supporting the existing Spa Management team, and advancing key operational and service priorities. The ideal candidate is an accomplished luxury spa or hospitality leader capable of quickly integrating into an established operation, assessing opportunities, building credibility, and providing clear leadership and accountability.

Requirements

Luxury resort, hotel, or destination spa leadership experience
Experience leading a large, high-volume spa operation
Strong operational and people leadership skills
Demonstrated ability to develop managers and establish accountability
Understanding of luxury and Forbes-level service expectations
Strong financial and business acumen
Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills
Ability to balance operational awareness with broader business leadership
Ability to identify opportunities and lead continuous improvement

Responsibilities

Provide overall leadership and operational oversight of the Spa and Salon.
Lead, coach, and support the Spa Management team, reinforcing clear areas of ownership and accountability.
Maintain a visible and engaged leadership presence, empowering Spa Managers to lead day-to-day operations.
Ensure consistent execution of luxury service standards and Forbes Five-Star expectations.
Establish clear expectations, accountability, communication, and follow-through across the leadership team.
Provide leadership continuity and stability throughout the temporary assignment.
Partner closely with the Director of Wellness on departmental priorities, projects, and strategic initiatives.
Quickly assess existing processes and identify opportunities to strengthen operational efficiency, consistency, and execution.
Develop the Spa Management team and strengthen individual and collective leadership capabilities.
Provide ongoing coaching and guidance to managers, helping establish sustainable leadership practices.
Support recruitment, interviewing, onboarding, and employee development based on operational needs.
Partner with the Director of Wellness and Human Resources on performance management and employee relations.
Ensure consistent communication and accountability throughout the department.
Support training, quality assurance, and service standards.
Foster a positive, professional, accountable, and performance-driven culture.
Help ensure leadership processes and expectations are well established and sustainable beyond the conclusion of the Task Force assignment.
Monitor labor, staffing, productivity, and departmental performance.
Support scheduling and staffing strategies based on business demand.
Review operational and guest experience trends and identify opportunities for improvement.
Monitor key departmental performance indicators and establish appropriate follow up.
Partner with the Director of Wellness on financial performance, departmental goals, and strategic priorities.
Ensure the Spa and Salon consistently deliver an exceptional luxury experience.
Maintain an active presence throughout guest-facing areas.
Support VIP experiences and service recovery when necessary.
Ensure facilities, treatment experiences, and Salon operations consistently meet Rancho Valencia and Forbes Five-Star standards.
Build relationships with members and frequent guests while supporting a highly personalized service culture.