Jessica Townley — 30 Under 40 2026

Jessica Townley knows the business she helps lead from considerably more than an executive’s vantage point.

She entered the pool and spa industry at 18 as a store associate and water tester while pursuing an associate degree in health sciences. By 21, she had advanced into upper management at her first pool company. Over the years, Townley added experience in sales, operations, pool and spa chemistry, inspections and site evaluations before becoming chief operating officer of Townley Pool and Spa.

Today, she works alongside her husband, David Townley, overseeing operations, supporting growth and handling the inevitable problems that need immediate attention.

But when Townley talks about what makes the company successful, she starts with its employees.

“My favorite part about working for Townley Pool and Spa is our team,” she says. “We truly operate like a family, and that culture is something I value deeply.”

Many employees have stayed with the company for years or even decades. Maintaining that culture has become especially important as Townley Pool and Spa has expanded, including adding a second location.

Rapid growth forced Townley to strengthen processes, improve communication and examine whether employees were in the right roles — all without allowing customer service to suffer.

Her plans for the company extend beyond the current generation. Townley and her husband have four children, and she hopes they will become involved in the business and potentially carry it forward.

In the meantime, she wants the industry to improve transparency and customer education. Shoppers often arrive confused by conflicting information about pricing, water care and product quality, she says, making clear expectations essential from the beginning.

Townley wants her impact to extend to employees as well as customers.

Outside Townley Pool and Spa, family and community fill much of her time. She volunteers with her children’s schools and serves as vice president of the Junior Deputy Baseball board of directors, helping with day-to-day operations of the local ballpark.

Locations refer to company headquarters; honorees may work remotely or live elsewhere.