Lesley Foster has been appointed spa director for the UK-based von Essen hotels group.

There are currently eight spas within the von Essen portfolio, following the launch of the most recent facility, Fowey Hall’s Aquae Sullis Retreat.

Foster’s primary responsibility in running the spa collection will be to increase awareness of the spas and their revenue.

Prior to joining von Essen, Foster’s most recent position was at Amida Racquets and Fitness Spa, where she was the spa manager. Other previous positions include sales and marketing manager for David Lloyd Leisure and senior membership advisor for Ealing Racquets and Healthtrack Club.

Elsewhere within the group, von Essen has recently begun construction work on a new riverside boutique hotel and spa in Battersea, London, UK, which will launch in early 2009. Details: vonessenhotels.com