Aspen, CO – Aspen Skiing Company, operators of Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Snowmass and Buttermilk, on Monday announced an internal reorganization with the realignment of several departments and a new reporting structure. Company officials indicate that the changes are designed to enhance the guest experience through operational efficiencies, improve the collaborative environment for current employees, and allow the company to maintain focus and keep up with the pace of the changing business environment.
“I am excited to announce that we are making some changes to Aspen Skiing Company’s organizational structure,” said Mike Kaplan, president and CEO, Aspen Skiing Company. “While we are coming off of a fantastic year, the pace of change in our industry is accelerating quickly and we need to ensure our organization is built to adapt quickly to new technology, increased competition and shifting customer and employee expectations.”
Under the new structure, David Perry assumes the role of Chief Operating Officer. The Ski and Snowboard Schools, Mountain Food and Beverage and Four Mountain Sports/D&E will report directly to him, in addition to his existing areas of responsibility which include Mountain Operations, Sales, Marketing and Events and summer business.
Matt Jones will retain his role as Chief Financial Officer, and will now officially head up Information Technology management/development and Strategic Planning as CIO. In addition to Finance, he will now oversee Ticketing and Guest Services. John Lilley has been named to the newly created position of Chief Technology Officer and will also report to Jones.
Jim Laing takes on the role of Chief Human Resources Officer responsible for employee retention, development, recruitment and overall well-being. The Hospitality Division Human Resources department will now report directly to him to allow the company’s hospitality and mountain divisions to collaborate on collective goals.
Don Schuster’s role as VP Hospitality is expanding to include hospitality operations along with development and project management. He will oversee the Limelight Hotel, The Little Nell and the Residences at Little Nell. Aspen Skiing Company’s hospitality business is on a growth trajectory and his team will explore and manage these opportunities.
Rana Dershowitz, the company’s new Chief Legal Counsel, started on Monday and will oversee all company legal services and activities.