IWD 2025 - an interview with: Anna Kolec

Tell us a little about your career journey leading to where you are now.

I started my career in the beauty and wellness industry with a strong passion for creating exceptional spa experiences. After gaining a solid foundation in cosmetology, I launched and managed beauty salons in Sweden, developing my skills in business operations and brand building.

After finishing MBA program in SPA and Hospitality at FH Joanneum Austria, my journey then took me to the Middle East, where I managed premium salons and spas in Qatar and the UAE. I successfully led large teams, introduced luxury treatments, and secured multiple industry awards, including "Best Day Spa in the GCC" and "Best Salon in Qatar."

In my role as Head of Spa at The Club Spa – Abu Dhabi Country Club, I oversaw the largest semi-governmental spa in the UAE, driving operational excellence and strategic growth. My experience in launching high-end salons and collaborating with top brands further strengthened my expertise.

Now, as Corporate Spa Director at Azizi Developments, I am leading the creation of spa brands for 50 hotels, including the world-class 7stars Spa at Burj Azizi. My focus remains on innovation, luxury, and setting new standards in the spa and hospitality industry.

What does the International Women’s Day slogan “accelerate action” mean for you?

For me, the International Women’s Day slogan “Accelerate Action” is a call to drive meaningful change in hospitality industries. With over 19 years of experience, I have witnessed the growing presence of women in leadership roles, but there is still much work to be done to ensure equal opportunities, fair recognition, and professional growth.

Throughout my career, I have led high-performing teams, mentored professionals, and created luxury wellness experiences that set new industry benchmarks. "Accelerate Action" means continuing to push boundaries—empowering women in leadership, fostering inclusive workplaces, and championing innovation in the spa and wellness sector. It is about taking proactive steps to uplift others, inspire excellence, and create a future where talent and dedication define success, regardless of gender.

How important is it for women to lift each other up and what does that mean to you?

Lifting each other up means mentoring, inspiring, and creating opportunities for women to thrive. It is about recognizing talent, celebrating achievements, and breaking barriers together. True success is not just about personal accomplishments but about creating an environment where other women can succeed as well. When women support each other, we accelerate change, build stronger businesses, and shape the future of our industry.

How important is diversity across senior leadership teams? 

Throughout my career, I have worked in multicultural environments, managing diverse teams and collaborating with international brands. I have seen how inclusive leadership not only enhances creativity but also strengthens business performance. When leadership reflects a range of backgrounds, cultures, and genders, it creates a more dynamic, adaptable, and forward-thinking organization.

For me, diversity in senior leadership is not just a goal—it is a necessity for shaping the future of luxury wellness and hospitality. It fosters growth, equity, and excellence, ensuring that businesses remain competitive and truly representative of the communities they serve.

Senior leadership: 26%, C-suite: 19%, 1 in 4: Chief-level. These are the percentages and numbers of female leaders in our industry. What do these numbers represent to you?

These numbers highlight both progress and the work that still needs to be done in the spa, wellness, and hospitality industries. While it is encouraging to see women stepping into senior leadership and C-suite roles, the fact that only 26% hold senior leadership positions and just 19% are in the C-suite shows that true gender equality is still a challenge.

For me, these figures represent a call to action. Throughout my career, I have led diverse teams, mentored professionals, and championed operational excellence in award-winning establishments. I have seen the impact of strong female leadership in shaping high-performing teams and driving business success. However, for real change to happen, we must continue to support, develop, and empower women to take on executive roles.

As a successful leader, how do you think (business) leaders can accelerate action toward closing the gender gap and ensuring equal opportunities in the workplace?

As a successful leader in the spa, wellness, and hospitality industries, I believe business leaders can accelerate action toward closing the gender gap by fostering a culture of inclusion, mentorship, and opportunity. Leaders must ensure transparent promotion pathways and unbiased hiring processes. Women should be evaluated based on skills, experience, and potential, not outdated industry norms. More over work-life balance is crucial, especially in industries like hospitality where long hours are common. Providing flexible schedules, parental support, and career development opportunities allows more women to thrive in leadership roles.

Can you share your top tips for entrepreneurial/managerial/leadership success?

Certainly! Here are my top tips for entrepreneurial, managerial, and leadership success, based on my 19+ years in the spa, wellness, and hospitality industries:

Successful leaders have a clear vision and the passion to inspire others. Whether launching a new spa concept or managing an award-winning establishment, always set a high standard and work with purpose.

Your team is your greatest asset. Hire the right people, invest in their growth, and create a culture of trust and accountability. 

The wellness industry is constantly evolving. Be flexible, embrace new trends, and innovate to stay ahead. Whether it’s integrating wellness technology or launching longevity-inspired treatments, adaptability is key.

What’s the most important piece of advice you’d give to a woman thinking of starting a career at leadership level?

The most important advice I would give to a woman aspiring to leadership is: Believe in your value and take bold steps forward. Women often feel they need to be 100% ready before stepping into leadership roles, but success comes from learning, adapting, and proving your worth through action. Finally, stay authentic—lead with passion, integrity, and a strong vision. The spa, wellness, and hospitality industries need more female leaders who inspire innovation and set new standards. If you are driven and committed, there is no limit to what you can achieve.

Have there been any role models through your life (work or professional) who have helped shape you as a leader? 

Yes, during my MBA program, I had the privilege of learning from female teachers who were in leadership positions at prestigious hotel chains like Six Senses and Four Seasons. Their leadership styles were incredibly inspiring. They demonstrated a perfect balance of operational excellence, empathy, and strategic thinking, all while leading large teams in some of the most luxurious and high-demand environments.

Their ability to navigate challenges, foster innovation, and lead with integrity has had a profound impact on my leadership journey. I learned a great deal from them about creating a culture of excellence, empowering teams, and maintaining a clear vision, no matter the scale of the operation. They truly set an example of how women can lead with strength and grace in high-pressure industries.