LAKEWOOD, Colo. – Michael Reitzell will step down as president and CEO of the National Ski Areas Association (NSAA) on November 10, 2026, after two years leading the organization.
In an announcement issued October 27, Reitzell said he made the decision for personal reasons, citing significant health challenges within his family over the past two years, including difficult news more recently. Reitzell explained that the experiences have changed how he and his wife, Kristen, think about their priorities. With two young children, the couple wants to make more time for family.
“Those experiences have given us a different perspective on our priorities,” Reitzell said.
NSAA To Begin Search For New Leadership
NSAA board chairman Stephen Kircher thanked Reitzell for his contributions to the ski industry and said the board of directors will soon begin searching for his successor.
Kircher credited Reitzell with initiating several initiatives during his two-year tenure and thanked him for his commitment to ensuring a smooth leadership transition. He also extended the board’s best wishes to Reitzell and his family.
Reitzell was appointed president and CEO of NSAA in 2024 after serving as president of Ski California, the trade association representing ski resorts in California and Nevada. Before that, he worked as an attorney representing resorts in the region.
As head of the National Ski Areas Association, Reitzell oversaw the organization’s strategic direction and operations, including government relations, lobbying, public relations, research, financial management and member education.
Despite stepping down from his leadership position, Reitzell made clear that he intends to remain involved in the ski industry. He expressed confidence in NSAA’s future and the foundation established during his tenure, emphasizing that his work supporting the industry’s development is far from finished.
