Wisp Resort and Pacific Group Resorts announced a planned leadership transition that will see Erik Barnes join Wisp Resort as General Manager Designate and ultimately succeed General Manager Ron Hawkes following Hawkes’ semi-retirement at the conclusion of the 2026-27 winter season. Together, Hawkes and Barnes represent nearly nine decades of ski industry experience and share a common passion for teaching, guest service, and growing participation in skiing and snowboarding. The transition is designed to ensure continuity for the staff, guests, community partners, and the resort’s many stakeholders.
Barnes joins Wisp following nearly 40 years in the ski industry. Most recently, he served as General Manager of Ragged Mountain Resort in New Hampshire and previously held senior leadership positions at Mount Snow Resort in Vermont. A Professional Ski Instructors of America (PSIA) Examiner for the past 23 years, Barnes currently serves as Chairman of the organization’s Board of Examiners, a position he has held for the last decade.
Hawkes, who is entering his 49th consecutive season in the ski industry and spent eight seasons working at Portillo in Chile, has also served as a PSIA Examiner. Following his retirement as General Manager, he will continue working with Pacific Group Resorts in a strategic advisory capacity focused on ski and snowboard school programming across the company’s resort portfolio. During the transition period, Barnes will focus on risk management, safety initiatives, and snow surface quality.
“Erik’s background makes him uniquely qualified to lead a resort as diverse as Wisp,” said Mark Fischer, President and Chief Executive Officer of Pacific Group Resorts. “His experience spans mountain operations, golf, guest services, risk management, capital planning, and team development. Just as importantly, he is a people-first leader who understands that exceptional guest experiences begin with exceptional employees. This transition gives Erik the opportunity to learn from a respected leader with deep Mid-Atlantic roots while ensuring continuity for our guests, team members, and community partners.”
“Wisp Resort has built a tremendous reputation throughout the Mid-Atlantic and beyond,” said Barnes. “The opportunity to work alongside Ron for an entire season is invaluable. He has built a strong team and a loyal following of guests who care deeply about the resort. I look forward to becoming part of the Deep Creek community, learning from Ron, and helping position Wisp for continued success in the years ahead.”
Hawkes will continue to serve as General Manager through the 2026-27 winter season and will play a central role in mentoring Barnes and facilitating a seamless transition.