Here’s your shot at a rare and exciting opportunity to join the executive team of a fiercely independent Colorado ski resort! As Ski Cooper's Director of Business Operations, you’ll drive success by leading with passion at 10,500+ feet, delivering industry-leading employee service, rock-solid information systems, top-tier safety for guests and staff, and drive strategic planning for the resort’s future. Reporting directly to the President & CEO, you’ll oversee Risk Management, HR, IT, and Planning & Development, while championing the resort’s future growth as a key member of the Executive Committee. We need a proven leader with 7+ years in the ski industry, deep expertise in HR, risk management, and planning, and the vision to shape strategy, culture, and development. Thrive in dynamic conditions—indoors and out—and enjoy upward growth potential for the right fit.
Perks: 100% employer-paid health insurance, profit-sharing retirement plan, complimentary season pass, reciprocal skiing privileges, PTO, and more.
Duties and responsibilities
• Provides day-to-day leadership and direction for assigned staff and ensures consistent focus on safety and guest service.
• Monitors operational performance of all reporting departments through observation and feedback.
• Encourages staff to identify opportunities to improve efficiencies in processes, systems, safety, and guest service.
• Provides timely performance feedback to assigned staff, including identification and delivery of focused training as necessary (both one-on-one and group).
• In conjunction with Risk & Safety Coordinator, monitors, manages, and mitigates all corporate risk and liability.
• Envisions and oversees resort guest and employee safety initiatives, trainings, and compliance.
• Oversees liability and workers’ compensation insurances and manages all claims.
• In conjunction with HR Coordinator, ensures proper administration of company benefits.
• Ensures compliance with all applicable employment law.
• Champions employee engagement, retention, reward, and succession programs.
• In conjunction with IT Director, ensures reliability of information systems, and compliance with all related policies, procedures, and best practices.
• Under guidance of President & CEO, develops short-, medium-, and long-term plans for the future of the resort.
• Responsible for all necessary permitting and contracts related to planning & development.
• Serves as Project Manager for completion of capital improvements and development.
• Coordinates and collaborates with planning, engineering, architecture, governmental, and other agencies for the realization of the resort’s development plans.
• Ensures compliance with OSHA, ADA, Ski Safety Act, ANSI-B77, etc.
• Ensures compliance with Federal and State employment laws and regulations.
• Responsible for company-wide training & development policies and programs, and succession planning.
• Edits, reviews, and ensures contracts are in place with all third-party contractors and vendors.
• Maintains a deep knowledge of ski industry law, as well as state and federal employment law.
• Any other tasks as assigned by the President & CEO.
Qualifications
• Must be 21+ with valid driver’s license
• Bachelor’s Degree, or combination of education and proven relevant experience
• Minimum of 7 years’ relevant experience, preferably in a ski industry management role(s)
• Must have successful background and direct knowledge and skills in ski area business operations – particularly in HR and risk management, information systems, planning/development, permitting, project management, etc.
• Proficient knowledge of project management
• Proficient knowledge of OSHA standards, ADA, ANSI B77, and the Colorado Ski Safety Act
• Proficient knowledge of state and federal employment law
• Ability to multi-task and handle numerous assignments simultaneously
• Strong leadership skills and coaching/training skills
• Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to adapt rapidly to dynamic situations
• A professional, positive, and enthusiastic attitude
• Excellent interpersonal and negotiation skills
Working conditions
This position is based both inside and outside, exposed to temperature extremes (above 85 degrees and below 20 degrees), sun and wind exposure, inclement weather (rain, snow, ice) and high altitudes (10,500+ feet).
Physical requirements
Must be able to walk on even/uneven/slippery terrain, climb/descend even/uneven/slippery terrain, climb/descend stairs, stand and/or sit for long periods of time, bend, stoop, reach, push, pull, and lift objects that may be heavy, etc.
Reports to: President & CEO
Direct reports
Risk & Safety Coordinator
HR Coordinator
IT Director
Benefits
- 100% employer-paid health insurance
- Life insurance
- Profit sharing retirement plan
- Complimentary season pass
- Reciprocal skiing privileges and comp tickets
- Paid Time Off (PTO) accrual
- Meal voucher for one full meal each working day of the ski season
- Free ski or snowboard lessons on a limited basis based on availability
- Supplemental insurance options
- On-premises employee discounts
- Career mentoring available (by application and selection)
Ski Cooper is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, protected veteran status or any other status protected by applicable law.
