Jessica Steneri, 38

Sales manager
Great Bay Spa & Sauna
Portsmouth, New Hampshire

When Jessica Steneri was first recommended for a service coordinator role at Great Bay Spa & Sauna in 2012, she wasn’t entirely sure the hot tub industry was for her. “Honestly, I wasn’t that interested in it,” Steneri says. “But I said, ‘What’s the worst that can happen?’ Here I am, 13 years later.” Since then, Steneri has worn many hats at Great Bay, gaining experience across the business but focusing her energy on sales and leadership roles.

For Steneri, the company feels more like family than a workplace — and that sense of connection extends to her customers. “I’ve had the privilege of watching families grow and evolve over time, and being a meaningful part of their lives is incredibly special,” she says.

Her best moments come from both client and team success. “Earning referrals from clients is a clear sign that I’ve made a positive impact on their lives,” Steneri says. She also relishes the moments when she helps teammates or customers build confidence: “I take a lot of pride in teaching, whether it’s helping a new team member gain the confidence to work independently or seeing a customer have that ‘Aha!’ moment when they finally understand water chemistry,” she says.

Steneri encountered some early hurdles, including managing tough conversations with customers. She learned to approach these situations with empathy and focus on shared goals, which has transformed how she works.

With Great Bay entering a new chapter following its acquisition by longtime employee Jamie Burson in 2021, Steneri is excited about growth and new markets. “Since we have been in one market for several decades, moving to a new market leaves us without the net of our community, but I am confident that we will be able to provide not only an exceptional customer experience but also bring new people into our industry to help continue carrying on the legacy,” she says.

She’s also mindful about inclusivity in the industry. “Even today, I sometimes find my knowledge questioned simply because I’m a woman,” Steneri says. “But I’m encouraged to see more women joining the industry. I’d love to help lead that change by setting an example and mentoring others.”

Steneri’s life revolves around wellness and creativity. “I believe in taking care of yourself — sleep, exercise, nutrition, controlling stress and healthy relationships are all part of my daily life,” she says. She’s been lifting weights for over 15 years, even competing locally in powerlifting. She also enjoys hiking, pottery, cooking, reading and bargain hunting..