Spa and wellness industry veteran Jim Root has been appointed as senior advisor by celebrated Mexican wellness and fitness destination Rancho La Puerta.

Going back to his roots, the experienced industry figure is returning to the Baja California property where his wellness journey started. From 1989, he worked at the destination for six years as a member of health and wellness staff.

Root has more than 40 years of professional experience in wellbeing programming, development and management at properties around the globe, and brings extensive luxury resort and destination spa expertise.

He shared the news about his new position online with a photo of him and Deborah Szekely – the 100-year-old co-founder of Rancho La Puerta and one of the most respected figures in the industry often referred to as the 'godmother of spa' (read Spa Business’ exclusive interview with Szekely here).

Root wrote: “I'm overcome with appreciation and gratitude when my boss/mentor/friend greets me some 27 years (later) with a strong embrace and says ‘congratulations, welcome home’”.

“I’m so proud to be of service once again to Rancho La Puerta, the Board and the family.”

Root has held health and wellness-oriented titles at several notable destination spas and resorts, playing a pivotal role in each position.

His work has ranged from project management, operations and managerial duties, to serving as chair of ISPA in 2008.

Root's wide-reaching portfolio of experience also includes time spent as CEO and president of the Glen Ivy Hot Springs, and positions held at Meadowood Napa Valley, Miraval Arizona, Sea Island Resorts, Copper Mountain Resort Association, Montana San Miguel Retreat Spa and Green Valley Spa & Resort.

He most recently served as group director of wellbeing for Enchantment Group and as general manager of established US destination spa Mii amo (owned by Enchantment) where he oversaw spa programming, property operations and aided in creating the spa’s signature personalised Journey experiences for guests.

Born in Upstate New York and raised in Princeton, New Jersey, Root completed his undergraduate education at Cornell University School of Hotel Administration in 1977.