Irish Spa Association announces new general manager

The Irish Spa Association (ISA) has announced the appointment of Melissa Jones as general manager for 2023-2024.

Founded by Peigin Crowley and Anita Murray in 2019, the ISA is a not-for-profit organisation that was set up to foster professionalism and growth, and impact change within the spa industry by providing community resources and networking opportunities, and facilitating discussions around issues affecting sector.

Jones is the spa development manager at The Spa at The Kingsley in Cork. She began her career working in office and quality management, however, a keen interest in beauty therapy saw her return to college at night to train as a therapist. She continued to work in her full-time job for the next two years, while taking on a role in a beauty salon at weekends to build her experience.

She began her spa career in 2007, when she joined the team at Fota Island Spa, initially as a therapist, before working her up to spa manager. In 2015, Jones was involved in the opening of The Spa at The Kingsley, eventually transferring there full-time as spa development manager.

“I am extremely passionate about the spa, beauty and wellness industry and that passion only continues to grow,” she said. “I believe the ISA was created with complete love and compassion for the industry, and everyone who works in it, and I am proud to be part of that mission and that purpose. I am honoured to join the team, and look forward to working with Peigin Crowley, Anita Murray and all our members to continue to build our amazing community.”