Kevin Thompson, 40

General manager
The Spa and Sauna Co
Reno, Nevada

Kevin Thompson has spent his entire professional career in the hot tub industry — and all of it with The Spa and Sauna Co. What began in 2008 as a sales position grew into sales management, and now, general management. Today, Thompson oversees not only sales but also delivery, inventory, customer service and service departments.

“I have loved every minute,” Thompson says. “I love spending time with different departments and looking for opportunities and efficiencies.”

For Thompson, the thrill has never worn off. “Helping people find happiness, rekindled family time and therapeutic relief from hot tub use [excites me],” he says. “No matter the challenges of the previous day, I wake up excited to get back to work each and every day.”

He especially enjoys hearing from customers after they’ve owned their spa for a while. Stories about better sleep, less pain, more relaxation and quality family time keep him motivated to share those benefits with future buyers.

“When I started in the industry, I had dreams of personal growth that I have surpassed year by year and have now reached levels that I had never dreamed of,” he says. “But it’s never enough — as I approach new heights, I set higher goals both personally and for our team.”

Navigating economic turbulence tested Thompson’s resolve, but none more so than the COVID-19 pandemic. “We certainly had no idea what was ahead of us,” Thompson says, “but through some adjustment and perseverance, we were able to prevail.”

Thompson has a clear purpose: bringing greater public awareness to the health and wellness benefits of daily hot tub use. “I dream of our industry providing a higher level of awareness so that society knows how important a 10-minute soak is every day,” he says. He wants to leverage social media, marketing partnerships and networking with other managers nationwide to create a cohesive, industry-wide message that positions hydrotherapy as an essential part of wellness rather than a luxury.

After a fulfilling day at work, Thompson spends time with his wife, Rebecca, and their two children, Grant and Ella. Board game nights are a family staple, and trips to the lake are a favorite escape.