Paul Schmidt, former executive director at the Green Spa Network, has joined the Arizona Spa & Wellness Association as director of sustainability and new partnerships.

Schmidt will help the expand the Association by creating new partnerships and initiatives to start a dialogue between spa sustainability, wellness construction WEED and WELL information, and programme development.

“We’re excited and honoured to have Paul’s energy and creativity with us in Arizona,” said Mia Mackman, founder and president of the Arizona Spa & Wellness Association. “His entrepreneurial spirit, ingenuity and industry background make him a powerful new addition to the Association, and we’re grateful to have him.”

Schmidt studied at Wesleyan University’s Science in Society Program and graduated from the University of Vermont with a degree in environmental studies. He has designed and operated two wellness centres, built curriculum for the Utah College of Massage and Eagle Gate College, and directed spas in North America and Bermuda.

In addition to his work with the non-profit trade association Green Spa Network, Schmidt’s environmental work has included positions as director of reporting for the International Academy of the Environment’s pilot program for Global Environmental Management in Geneva. He has served on boards of directors for Healing Mountain Massage School, Eagle Gate College, the International Spa Association as well as with the Jackson Hole Destination Wellness Committee.