Two Vice Presidents Named for International SPA Association

Headquartered in Lexington, Ky., the International SPA Association (ISPA) has named DeLaine Bender, CAE, as vice president of operations and Jonathan Sexton as vice president of marketing and sales.

“Times of change are exciting and ISPA is eager for the ideas and creativity DeLaine and Jonathan will bring to the team,” said Lynne McNees, president of the International SPA Association.

Bender comes to ISPA with more than 20 years of experience in association, event and communications management. She is a Certified Association Executive (CAE), which is held by fewer than five percent of all association professionals and is the highest professional credential in the association industry. Her previous association management experience includes the National Christmas Tree Association, Christmas Spirit Foundation, National Association of State Chief Information Officers, Quest International Users Group, and the Interstate Oil and Gas Compact Commission. Bender will assist with ISPA’s day-to-day operations.

“ISPA’s focus on the well-being of mind, body and spirit is something I believe in, and I’m honored to be part of an organization that is such a respected authority and international voice for the spa industry,” said Bender.

Sexton was the former director of marketing for the J. Peterman Company and brings 14 years of marketing and sales experience to ISPA, with a focus on brand awareness and online communications. His work experience includes major brands like HGTV and Hudepohl beer. Sexton will focus on membership and the marketing efforts of the association and the annual ISPA Conference & Expo, held this year at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas, Nev.

“ISPA is amazing. It’s a different challenge from my agency days. This is about building community and being the voice for the spa industry,” said Sexton. “I’m looking forward to the many opportunities that ISPA will offer.”

Crystal Ducker, former ISPA vice president of membership and marketing was named ISPA’s vice president of research and communications.