Daring To Be Great: Leadership Insights

Jeannette Handson

Spa Director
Cape Rey Carlsbad, A Hilton Resort

Describe your professional journey.

I was born and raised in Quito- Ecuador. Ecuador is one of 17 megadiverse countries in the world and has the most biodiversity per square kilometer of any nation. My Parents were very involved with everything nature had to offer in terms of alternate medicine and beauty treatments. I travelled extensively within my country experiencing its diversity and richness in culture and geographical regions. I also travelled to several countries. Later in life I resided in England and Brazil and then moved to the United States where my hospitality career started. I was always interested in the wellness industry; however, in my early twenties I decided to study hotel management and tourism. One the program’s requirements were to complete a full hospitality internship.  I did my internship at a local resort that landed me into the spa and wellness industry.