Spafinder Wellness has appointed Michelle Pae, co-founder of online real estate technology company Real Direct, as its new chief product officer.

In the newly-created position, Pae will spearhead the company's expansion in the health and wellness arena and has been tasked with developing new products and online technology and tools designed to help people easily find and reserve wellness, fitness and spa experiences and services worldwide.

Pete Ellis, chair and CEO of Spafinder, said: "Michelle is uniquely qualified to develop smarter consumer wellness platforms as our company begins a new chapter.

"Not only does she have deep experience in successfully creating new products and strategies, she is also passionate about providing consumers with the best possible online experiences, which will ultimately drive more business for our 20,000 partners."

Pae's previous roles also include vice president of product at Pronto.com and director of product management at Shopping.com. She has also served as a consultant to a number of companies, including YouTube and Kaboom!.

"I'm excited to join the talented management team at Spafinder Wellness and help build new, technology-driven products for a company that has been a wellness industry leader for more than 25 years," said Pae.