US-based Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa has grown into a 490+ unit massage and facial spa franchise since its inception in 2004. Former Hand & Stone chief development officer and president John Teza will now helm the organisation after being appointed CEO.

Teza oversaw two significant acquisitions for Hand & Stone over the past year and with strong recovery in unit-level sales and growing demand, the company says it’s on track to exceed US$550m (€464.2m, £395m) in system-wide sales in 2021.

Teza will be succeeding Todd Leff who is stepping down as CEO but staying on as chair of the board.

“Over the past year, John has taken on multiple responsibilities and has helped Hand & Stone continue its accelerated growth,” said Leff.

“Most impressive has been his ability to oversee the recovery of unit development in addition to

leading two significant acquisitions. With Hand and Stone having just recently surpassed 500locations, John’s high energy and tested leadership skills will drive the business forward for many years to come.”

Prior to joining Hand & Stone, Teza held the role of principal at NRD Capital Management leading operational and strategic functions for a number of restaurants and retail concepts.

Before this, he was chief development officer at Jersey Mike’s Subs where he directed all aspects of brand expansion for the New Jersey-based chain of 1,750+ units and US$1.2bn in system-wide sales.

“I’m excited to help Hand & Stone continue to be the leader in the dynamic wellness industry,”

Teza told Spa Business.

“Todd and the other members of the leadership team have laid the foundation for an extremely successful future.

“We’ll continue the work of delivering high-value services to the middle-market, growing our skincare business, advancing the use of technology in our customer experience, and working to ensure the highest level of spa safety and security.”

He concluded: “I’m thankful that Todd’s guidance and leadership are not going away as he continues to serve as chair – Hand & Stone wouldn’t be in the position it is today as an industry leader without his leadership.”