Elizabeth Arden Red Door Spa has appointed Sharilyn Abbajay its senior vice president of spa operations and retail redevelopment.

Abbajay, who held a senior level position with Red Door Spa nearly 15 years ago, will manage operational standards and strategies for spas in New York and Washington DC.

She will also oversee the growth and development of the brand's first comprehensive at-home skin and bodycare line Red Door Spa Professional.

Abbajay, who started her career as a spa technician, brings more than 35 years experience to the role and previously worked as vice president of global spas and retail at Marriott Corporation, where she oversaw 185 spas worldwide (see Spa Business, issue 1, 2011, p24).

She also founded consulting firm Abbajay & Associates in 2003.

Chief executive of Red Door Spa Holdings Todd Walter said: "As we continue to grow our spa presence and build our Red Door Spa Professional product portfolio, her expertise in retail channels, e-commerce and spa management will ensure Red Door Spa remains best in class within the industry."

Red Door Spa operates 30 day and resort spas across the US (see Spa Business, issue 2, 2009, p24).