Spafinder Wellness has appointed long-time board member Missy Godfrey as CEO. She takes the reins from Pete Ellis who’s been CEO since 2002.

Ellis will continue as chair of the company, in addition to his role as chair emeritus of the Global Spa & Wellness Summit, while Godfrey will lead strategic planning and global operations for the business.

Spafinder specialises in spa media and marketing and runs the Spafinder gift card operation.

“Missy has a rich history with Spafinder, and a strong background in retail, media and technology," said Ellis, "She's the best choice to lead the company’s international expansion and growth.”

Godfrey has over two decades' experience as a senior executive in commerce, media, technology and finance and has worked for Hearst, Primedia, North Sea Partners, Worth and American Express Publishing. Her most recent role was as CEO of SocialFlow – a software company for social media marketing.

Godfrey said: “Having served on the Spafinder board for 10 years, I admire how Pete and Susie Ellis have grown the company. They’ve taken a lead in defining the wellness industry, as well as providing spa consumers with access to information on healthy and active lifestyles for everyday living.”

Mia Kyricos, Spafinder’s chief brand officer said, “Missy is an outstanding leader with the talent and experience to fulfil our promise of helping people feel good and live well all year round.”

Spafinder Wellness has developed a strategy it calls its “365 Philosophy” which is driving the direction of both its divisions – Spafinder Wellness 365™ and the Corporate Wellness 365™ business. The aim is to make Spafinder a year-round resource for both consumers and corporates.