#CareerFocus with Brenda Magome, Four Seasons Spa Manager

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Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff Johannesburg has appointed Brenda Magome as Spa Manager, further strengthening its commitment to world-class wellness at one of South Africa’s most iconic luxury destinations.

Originally from Johannesburg, Magome brings extensive senior-level experience across Africa’s luxury spa and wellness sector. Her career spans leadership roles at Singita in Zimbabwe and Tanzania, as well as her work as Founder and Director of the Mandala Wellness Group. Known for her thoughtful, guest-centric approach, Magome blends strategic operations with a holistic vision of wellbeing.

In her new role, Magome’s focus is on creating a spa and wellness environment where guests feel mentally, physically, and spiritually balanced, leaving wholly restored. In this Q&A, she shares her journey, leadership philosophy, and vision for elevating the wellness experience at Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff Johannesburg.

1. What does this appointment at Four Seasons mean to you personally?

Returning home with nearly a decade and a half of experience, this appointment feels like a homecoming. I’m thrilled to join the Four Seasons team, which epitomizes excellence. Together, we will create a nurturing wellness environment, deliver unparalleled service, and inspire our team to grow into future leaders.

2. What inspired your journey into the wellness and spa industry?

Although I initially attended a commercial secondary school in preparation for a career in accounting or marketing, I grew up surrounded by beauty and care. Over time, wellness revealed itself as my true calling. A space where nurturing, healing, and purpose naturally intersect.

3. How has your African experience shaped your leadership style?

Working in other African countries has profoundly shaped my leadership style, grounding me in humility and compassion. I lead by truly seeing people behind the title because when people feel seen and supported, they perform at their best

4. What does “wholly restored” mean to you in a wellness context?

Being wholly restored means balance and integration of Mind, Body, and Spirit. True wellness leaves one feeling ‘whole’, recharged, and at peace on every level.

5. What leadership lesson has had the biggest impact on your career?

Integrity. Leading with a clear conscience builds trust and creates authentic leadership that follows you wherever you go.

6. How do you balance operational excellence with genuine care for people?

By understanding that excellence and care are interconnected. When people feel respected, heard, and valued, performance follows naturally.

7. What challenges have helped you grow the most as a woman in leadership?

Leading spa operations in regions where the profession is often misunderstood challenged me to firmly uphold professionalism and protect the dignity of my teams. This required strength and resilience and ultimately shaped my confidence, authority, and commitment to setting uncompromising standards.

8. How do you stay grounded in a high-performance luxury environment?

Through my faith. My spirituality grounds me in every environment, allowing me to lead with calm, clarity, and purpose.

9. What advice would you give women aspiring to leadership roles in hospitality?

Be yourself and embrace your uniqueness. The world needs your authentic contribution. Be You!

10. How do you define success beyond titles and achievements?

I define success as contentment. The knowledge that you’ve made a positive impact while giving your very best every time.

11. What legacy do you hope to build at Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff?

I hope to create a sanctuary of holistic wellness. A place of peace where guests feel fully restored mentally, physically, and spiritually. A home of wholeness!

12. What daily habit helps you show up as your best self?

Daily spiritual grounding through reflection and faith keeps me centred, intentional, and aligned in all that I do.