The Oaks at Ojai Announces New Guest Relations Director
DECEMBER 12, 2008. Award-winning fitness destination spa The Oaks at Ojai, founded by fitness expert Sheila Cluff, has appointed Elizabeth Horton as the new Guest Relations Director. The charming 1920s hotel-turned-spa, located in the peaceful town of Ojai just outside of Santa Barbara, has been a source for relaxation, wellness and healthy living for more than 30 years.
The Oaks at Ojai created the new position for Horton, who brings more than 27 years experience as a certified personal trainer, aerobics instructor and fitness director. She previously held the role of Director of Activities at The Oaks at Ojai. In her new role, Horton will continue to develop and build strong guest relationships, handle strategic planning and execution of The Oaks' ongoing events and oversee guest communication such as The Oaks' monthly newsletter "Acorn" and Web site content. Additionally, she will conduct trend analysis on guest surveys and identify opportunities to develop and improve programs that enhance the overall experience for The Oaks' visitors.
"We recognized Elizabeth's commitment and compassion for our guests and her ability to wear multiple hats which is why we created this new position for her," says Cathy Cluff, Managing Director of The Oaks. "Having Elizabeth on our team, with her vast knowledge in spa, healthy lifestyle and wellness, is an asset for us and her new position shows that we are a destination spa committed to offering enriching programs that motivate and impact our guests' lives."
Horton is well-known for her fun and creative dance classes, some of which she still teaches at The Oaks. She also participates as a member of the Destination Spa Group Advisory Board and helps manage founder and owner Sheila Cluff's travel cruise program called Sheila's Healthy Holiday Travel.
"My passion and enthusiasm comes from the relationships developed with our guests over these years-many of whom have seen me grow up since my career began with the Cluffs," says Horton. "I am grateful for the continued growth opportunities at The Oaks and look forward to nurturing our guest relationships, taking their feedback and fine-tuning our programs and offerings. "
Horton's career began at The Palms at Palm Springs, the Oaks' former sister spa as an aerobics instructor in 1981. Throughout the years, she received certifications such as Group Exercise Instructor and Personal Trainer from ACE (American Council on Exercise), AFAA (Aerobic and Fitness Association of America) and IDEA (International Dance Exercise Association). Additionally, Horton is a certified spa supervisor through ISPA (International Spa Association). She moved to The Oaks at Ojai in 1988 where she began her management training at the destination spa. As the spa industry evolved, Horton's responsibilities also grew along with her in-depth knowledge and experience in the fitness, healthy lifestyle and spa industry.
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