CARY, NC, November 13, 2006 – The Umstead Hotel & Spa, scheduled to open in January 2007, has appointed Michael Simmons as director of the 14,000-square-foot Spa at The Umstead.

An industry veteran who has helped open several of the nation’s leading spas, Simmons will oversee all aspects of the new luxury spa facility at the highly anticipated new hotel. With nearly eight years of expertise in spa development, management, recruitment and operations, Simmons most recently launched The St. Julien Hotel and Spa in Boulder, CO, a member of Preferred Hotels and also voted “Best Spa” in 5280 Magazine and in Colorado Daily Reader’s Poll.

Previously, Simmons served as spa director at the Mobil Four Star Watermark Hotel and Spa in San Antonio, TX, The Lodge at Rancho Mirage in Rancho Mirage, CA, Three Realms Wellness Center in Beverly Hills, CA, St. Regis Hotel & Spa in Los Angeles, CA and as fitness director at the Peninsula Hotel in Beverly Hills, CA.

Simmons holds a degree in business administration from De Anza College in Cupertino, CA. He also is affiliated with the National Spa Council for Starwood Hotels and is a certified massage therapist from the California Healing Arts College of Massage Therapy.

The Umstead Hotel and Spa (www.theumstead.com) resides on 12 acres and is nestled against a beautiful three-acre lake, steps away from walking and jogging trails as well as The Umstead State Park. The 150 oversized guest rooms include luxurious furnishings and signature amenities. State-of-the-art technology enhances the customer experience on all levels. Adjacent to the hotel, the plush spa will feature the finest treatment rooms, “meditation” courtyard and more. The treatment menu will include, but not be limited to, a variety of massages, facials, body masks, body polishes and exfoliation treatments, hydro-therapy baths and showers, hand and foot treatments, manicures and pedicures.