What have been your career highlights?
During a dire recession in Ireland, is it the day I saw a vacancy for a job in Hong Kong and was on a plane three weeks later becoming an economic migrant like millions of others? Or is it the day I went for an interview in Phuket and on walking into the hotel, knowing with absolute certainty that I’d found my ‘home’?

There have been many other such inflexion points when I needed to make career decisions. I subscribe to the concept that there’s no such thing as a right/wrong choice – just a different one.

Who have been the biggest influencers?
Banyan Tree opened its flagship site in Phuket in 1994 and was one of the first to design a spa concept as an integral part of the hotel offering, rather than just as an afterthought. Many brands have followed suit to varying degrees of success. Today Banyan Tree remains a phenomenal force and it has also added complementary brands that segment the market.

What will have the greatest impact on spas?
The democratisation of health will be hugely influential. Ultra-luxury spas are wonderful. However, spas that build their business model around a much wider and deeper market segment at accessible price points, will, I believe, develop a long-term sustainable future.

What do you still hope to accomplish?
The creation of Ensana just four years ago laid the foundations for a new brand in Europe based on integrative health – fusing local natural resources such as thermal water and mud with expert medical knowledge to offer treatments that support people’s health. We’re only at the start of this journey and doubling the size of the business in the next 10 years is an achievable goal.

Read more: www.spabusiness.com/markhennebry