The spa industry in Bahrain has seen a significant shift led by leaders with a unique blend of traits: innovative thinking, inclusivity, compassion, and a commitment to holistic wellness and community impact. This mix has elevated certain individuals to prominent roles, driving success and positive change while setting new industry standards. Maisa Sheikh's leadership stands out for embodying these qualities, making her a distinguished figure in spa management, known for her dedication to wellness and community welfare.

As the Managing Director of Sparadise Spa and Salon, Maisa Sheikh has not only revolutionized the traditional concept of spa services but has also become a beacon of inspiration for women entrepreneurs worldwide.

Below is an excerpt of Maisa Sheikh’s exclusive interaction with Women Entrepreneur Review magazine.

Take us through your educational background. What motivated you to foray into the field of spa management?

Imagine standing at the crossroads of tradition and ambition, where my journey from Yemen to Bahrain unfolds with determination and vision. I started with a diploma in civil engineering, which became a foundation for my ambitions and strategic insights. After moving to Bahrain, my passion for well-being led me to a career in spa management. Initially attracted by beauty treatments, my perspective expanded under Steiner's guidance, a leader in spa management education. Delving deeper wasn't just about passion; it was about mastering the business. A key management course provided skills in cost management, menu creation, and holistic customer experiences.

The next part of my journey was defined by entrepreneurial drive and a relentless pursuit of excellence amid growing competition. The challenge wasn't just about thriving; it was about setting new standards. This quest led to certifications in Quality Management Systems – ISO 9001 2008, a testament to my commitment to elevating industry benchmarks. Amidst expansions and contractions, each phase brought unique lessons. Managing a diverse team from different nationalities wasn't just about business; it was about fostering a global community of wellness enthusiasts. Challenges evolved, from operational details to strategic decisions, prompting a pursuit of deeper knowledge in management consultancy.

Completing an MBA in Management Consulting from York St John University in the UK during the pandemic reinforced my belief that resilience is built through adversity. As spas downsized, we focused more on efficiency and excellence, reflecting the principles I learned during my education. I am also getting a Diploma in Positive Psychology from Australia. Ultimately, education isn't just about degrees; it's about a relentless quest for mastery, an unyielding commitment to innovation, and an enduring passion to transform challenges into opportunities. This journey, with its twists and triumphs, has not only shaped my career but also defined my ethos as a leader in the spa management landscape.

Introduce us to Sparadise Spa and Resort. What are the various responsibilities you shoulder as the company’s MD?

As the Managing Director of Sparadise Spa and Resort, my responsibilities are multifaceted and dynamic, reflecting the essence of our brand and its unique offerings. My role extends beyond traditional managerial duties; it encompasses a deep understanding of trends, both in customer preferences and staff requirements. It's not just

about overseeing operations; it's about being a provider of everything needed to ensure a seamless spa experience.

At Sparadise, we take pride in our holistic approach, offering healing treatments that transcend mere beauty rituals. Our spa is a sanctuary where gender norms are challenged, and healing knows no boundaries. Catering to both men and women under one roof in an Islamic country like Bahrain requires meticulous planning and a deep respect for cultural sensitivities. This inclusive approach has been a cornerstone of our success, bridging gaps in understanding and fostering a reputation as a respected destination for wellness.

From identifying market trends to upholding strict standards of service delivery, my role as MD is about steering Sparadise towards excellence while maintaining its unique identity as a gender-inclusive, healing-focused spa. It's not just a business; it's a commitment to promoting wellness and fostering a community of holistic healing enthusiasts.

What criteria do you use when hiring spa employees, and what qualities are you seeking?

When it comes to hiring spa employees at Sparadise, we have stringent criteria that reflect our commitment to excellence and quality service. Our primary requirement is for candidates to hold q u a l i f i c ations from CIDESCO or CIBTEC, ensuring they have a solid foundation in spa therapy. Alternatively, we consider candidates with a minimum of five years' experience in a five-star establishment. These prerequisites establish a baseline of expertise and professionalism.

Once candidates meet these qualifications, they undergo a rigorous three-month probation period during which they receive training from our internal experts. We have dedicated trainers for different aspects like aesthetics and holistic therapies, ensuring that each therapist is well-versed in our unique protocols and standards. Even if candidates come from esteemed backgrounds, they must complete our internal SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures) to familiarize themselves with our specific methods and product lines, such as our exclusive Elemis and Guinot products. This meticulous approach guarantees that every therapist at Sparadise embodies the excellence and expertise our clients expect from us.

What are some of the most critical professional milestones you have achieved over the years?

Over the years, I've achieved several professional milestones that reflect my commitment to personal growth and community impact. As a Toastmaster for eight years, I honed my communication and leadership skills, earning certification in High-Performance Leadership (HPL). While these accolades are personal achievements, my focus in the spa industry has been on tangible successes like winning awards for the best spa concept.

Additionally, I've been involved in several charities in the arenas of medical and education. While spa accolades come and go, my passion lies in creating meaningful experiences for customers and contributing positively to society.

As a woman leader in the spa industry, how do you support and empower other women entrepreneurs both within and outside your company?

As a woman leader in the spa industry, I am deeply committed to supporting and empowering other women entrepreneurs both within and outside my company. I believe in the power of education and self-improvement for everyone, acknowledging that meaningful change often takes time. Women are inherently creative and adept at multitasking, yet they often miss out on entrepreneurial opportunities. I encourage women to harness their creativity and broaden their horizons, seeking out and seizing new opportunities.

Within my company, I mentor and provide training programs that focus on entrepreneurial skills and business acumen. I emphasize the importance of being adaptable and open to new ventures. For instance, a spa manager might start a side business, like a laundry service, to save costs and generate additional income. By fostering a culture of awareness and enterprise, I aim to inspire women to be proactive and explore diverse opportunities for success and fulfillment.

What are your future plans as a leader and for your company moving forward?

As a leader and an individual, my future plans revolve around fostering positive change and growth, both for myself and my company. I've experienced firsthand the transformative power of change, coming from Yemen with limited English skills to where I am today. My goal is to empower others, especially women, to embrace change as an opportunity for advancement rather than compromise. Through education and technology, I aim to inspire women to pursue their aspirations without feeling hindered by societal norms or family expectations. As for my company, Sparadise, I envision continued innovation and adaptation to meet the evolving needs of our clients while maintaining our commitment to excellence and inclusivity.

Maisa Sheikh, Managing Director, Sparadise Spa and Salon

Maisa sheikh is the managing director of sparadise spa and salon in bahrain. With a civil engineering background, she brings a unique perspective to the spa industry. She is dedicated to holistic wellness and community impact, shaping sparadise as a hub for therapeutic experiences and wellness innovations.