A longtime member of Canyon Ranch’s Advisory Board, Hefner was until 2009 Chairman and CEO of Playboy Enterprises, Inc., where for 20 years she oversaw the global expansion of the Playboy brand into a wide array of platforms and markets, transforming it from a domestic publishing business to a global lifestyle and multi-media company. Since her departure from Playboy, she has acted as a consultant to Canyon Ranch and has also long been involved in many civic and charitable organizations; currently serving as a General Trustee of Rush University Medical Center in Chicago.

Canyon Ranch Enterprises was established to extend the company’s core mission—to inspire in each person a commitment to healthy living, and provide the tools and knowledge to turn intentions into reality—beyond the on-property experience of its renowned resorts and SpaClub facilities. In her new leadership role, Hefner will head up the strategies and activities of this new division, bringing the venerable Canyon Ranch brand into new areas via media and business partnerships.

Commented Dr. Carmona, who himself joined Canyon Ranch in 2006 after leaving office as the 17th U.S. Surgeon General, “As a leader in the field of wellness, Canyon Ranch has always been interested in the democratization of our philosophy and expertise beyond those who visit our properties. Mel, Jerry and I are thrilled to have Christie officially lead this effort under the aegis of Canyon Ranch Enterprises, as she has been a longtime supporter of our mission and her vast experience and vision will be an immeasurable asset to our efforts.”

“I am very excited to be working with Canyon Ranch in this new capacity to share their cutting-edge research and expertise with a broader audience,” added Hefner. “The interest in health and wellbeing is great and growing. Visionaries in the field for over 30 years and a trusted brand with extraordinary intellectual capital, Canyon Ranch remains at the forefront of what it means to live a healthy life and is very well positioned to extend its reach.”