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After 16 years at the helm of the The Remarkables Ski Area, Ross Lawrence is stepping down from his role as ski area manager.
Ross’s departure marks a big change in his illustrious 40-year career in the ski industry, which started from humble beginnings as a lift operator at Mt Ruapehu’s Whakapapa Ski Area.
“It has been an absolute privilege to work in an industry I have such a passion for, but the highlight has always been the people – guests raving about their experiences and staff growing and developing in their roles,” Ross says.
Joining NZSki in 1994, Ross served as assistant ski area manager at Mt Hutt Ski Area before being shoulder tapped by Sir John Davies – owner of NZSki’s parent company Trojan Holdings – culminating in his appointment as ski area manager for The Remarkables.
Under Ross’s guidance, the mountain has experienced unprecedented growth, becoming the fastest-growing ski area in the country.
Ross’s legacy is woven into the fabric of The Remarkables, with more than $90 million invested by NZSki in the ski area since 2013.
His leadership has overseen the implementation of transformative projects, including the installation of three high-speed chairlifts, construction of a new base building, expansion of the snowmaking and trail network and upgrades to access roads and parking facilities.
Lawrence pays tribute to the company and the board for their continued investment in NZSki’s ski areas, and Sir John Davies, in particular, for his ethos.
‘‘He [Sir John Davies] talks about the product, he talks about the people, he talks about caring and I think that’s a culture that we’ve got across NZSki. It pays dividends.”
NZSki CEO Paul Anderson has had the pleasure of working alongside Ross for the past 10 years.
“I’ve loved working with Ross. Throughout his tenure, Ross has epitomised dedication and leadership, earning admiration from guests, colleagues, and staff alike for his charismatic and hands-on approach. These qualities have become the foundation for The Remarkables’ culture,” Paul says.
As Ross transitions out of his current role at the end of April, his dedication to The Remarkables remains evident in the ongoing Shadow Chairlift development, which is set to open for the upcoming 2024 season.
While stepping back from his role as ski area manager, Ross will continue his involvement with NZSki and/or parent company Trojan Holdings in some capacity.
NZSki has commenced the search for a new ski area manager for The Remarkables, with the aim of securing a suitable candidate before the start of the 2024 season.
