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FACES OF WELLNESS: Inspiring the Industry

Meet the leaders & wellness professionals fostering team culture at Meliá Hotels International

Luis Ramírez
Spa & Wellness Director
Meliá Hotels International – Mexico

My journey into the wellness industry was inspired by a personal experience that helped me realize that being and feeling well is the result of an active commitment and, above all, of conscious decisions regarding health and personal balance. I am deeply passionate about the human impact, and my background in marketing allows me to view this industry through a unique lens focused on creating authentic experiences and designing ecosystems of transformation.

The project that best encapsulates this connection is our workplace wellness program, ‘Feel Good.’ Its goal is simple yet vital: to contribute to the quality of life of our colleagues, ensuring that the same level of care we provide to our guests starts and remains within our own team.

For me, success is measured by the ability to nurture and work with teams who choose to share that same passion. They are the ones who, with every interaction, shape the experience and identify opportunities for improvement. My leadership style has evolved into radical listening, ensuring I never lose that vital connection to the guest’s experience. And, of course, that all team members feel and are well.

The team is the source of opportunities and vision; my commitment is simply to support them in identifying the path of professional growth that they may not yet have envisioned.

 

Arabelle del Pilar Rosario
Spa & Wellness Director
Meliá Hotels International – Dominican Republic

For me, staying grounded starts with an inner connection. I set aside time for prayer and meditation, to remain calm, grateful, and clear-headed even during the most intense moments. My approach adapts to each team and the way they work. The key is to maintain empathy, listen, and find the best path to bring projects to a successful conclusion. That flexibility makes the work more human and sustainable.

Wellness and results go hand in hand. I believe in teams that work with purpose, where every business goal aligns with people’s growth and well-being.

I foster a culture where communication, training, and self-care are integrated into everyday life. A therapist or receptionist who feels heard and valued projects that same energy onto the guest. When the environment is healthy and motivating, results come naturally.

Unity, passion, and attitude make for a truly exceptional spa team. When a team shares a purpose and a love for what they do, everything flows better, and it shows in every step of the service. Passion creates discipline, discipline creates care, and care creates respect, both for the work and for others. An exceptional team is not measured solely by technique, but by the energy it transmits and the harmony with which it works. That connection is what truly elevates the wellness experience.

 

Miram Chimal
Spa Manager
Paradisus Los Cabos

Becoming a spa manager was a decision rooted in a deep conviction: wellness is not a luxury; it is a human necessity. From day one, I understood that every treatment, scent, and detail can influence how someone feels.

This connection between service and purpose is what guided me to lead a team and create experiences that truly serve people. What keeps me motivated is seeing how well-being can also become a driver of sustainable growth. One of the achievements I value most has been leading the spa’s recovery and repositioning after a challenging period. It was about restoring the soul of the spa and cohesion to the team. We implemented a clear strategy; we redesigned spaces and processes and strengthened the internal culture so that every employee understands true success is reflected in both financial results and in the guest’s emotional experience.

Outside of work, my greatest source of inspiration is my family, pets, and friends. They represent my balance and my emotional driving force. Spending time with those I love reminds me of what truly matters: everyday joy.

Travel also inspires me deeply; it recharges me, nurtures my creativity, and keeps my curiosity alive. It helps me reconnect with what makes me feel alive.

 

Yodaris Cepeda
Gerente Spa
Meliá Caribe Beach

I began my career in the spa industry driven by a passion for wellness and a desire to create experiences that truly make a difference in people’s lives. I started in operational roles, where I learned the importance of attention to detail and authentic service.

Key moments such as leading my first teams, tackling challenges, and contributing to the development of strategic projects within the hotel have been instrumental in my growth.

I cultivate a positive environment through clear communication, empathy, and hands-on leadership. For guests, I focus on every detail to deliver a warm, professional, and memorable experience. With my team, I work to build an atmosphere where they feel valued, heard, and motivated. I foster collaboration, continuous training, and recognition, because a satisfied team channels that energy in every interaction and elevates the guest experience.

One particularly memorable experience was leading my team during a period of high demand, when every member demonstrated commitment, unity, and excellence. Seeing how they worked in sync, taking care of both operations and the guest experience, filled me with pride. When a team is well-guided, motivated, and connected by a common purpose, it can overcome any challenge and achieve extraordinary results.

Fabiola
Author: Fabiola


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