Jeff Staniland is getting himself familiar with the company he has been chosen to lead.
As newly appointed chief executive of Skyline Enterprises he is stepping in at the top of a company that spans tourism operations, accommodation, properties and casinos.
"I'm really fortunate to join a truly iconic company that ticks all the boxes: Skyline has a good business model, interesting size, solid finances, excellent people and a wonderful location," Mr Staniland said.
Changes in leadership do not happen often at Skyline.
Mr Staniland takes over from Ken Matthews, who has stepped back after 13 years as managing director.
Mr Matthews will remain on the board along with chairman Barry Thomas, who recently announced that he wished to step down as chairman after 33 years, but still be a director.
Mr Matthews is confident that his successor is well equipped for the job.
"Jeff Staniland brings excellent commercial experience to the company. His track record in management shows that he is a quick learner, so I am certain that he will do well in this position," Mr Matthews said.
Originally from Christchurch, Mr Staniland (48) started his career in banking, first in Wellington and then in London for 12 years.
In 1997, he moved back to Christchurch to pursue a career in investment and management, which included more than three years as CEO for the mortgage broking company Mike Pero Mortgages Ltd.
Most recently he held the positions as both CEO for Gould Wealth Management and director, strategy, for Gould Holdings Ltd.
He does not see a problem with shifting from corporate finance to the tourism industry.
"Both industries deal with people and deliver a service. Different industries have different jargons, but the basics are the same. You always need strong business sense, great people and good communication," he said.
Mr Staniland will be looking at how operations can be improved.
While there are no major plans for development in Queenstown, he expects to look for ways to expand the business.
"We have the intellectual property for the luge, and it would logical to expand further into new markets. It is a lengthy process to establish the business in a new country, but we are considering several options," he said.
Even though he has taken on a busy job, he is not planning on relaxing outside work.
As an active sportsman he has completed numerous marathons and cycle races, and has competed in the Coast to Coast event three times.
Next month, he will be joined by his wife, Jessica, and their three children, but after the summer his children will leave for university in Wellington and boarding school in Christchurch.
The family home in Christchurch has been put on the market, and the family will be buying a new house in Queenstown.
"I'm looking forward to us settling in properly. I have brought my kayak and bike with me, but hardly had time to use them yet.
"I might not get enough time to train for something major like the Coast to Coast competitions, but work-life balance is important to me, and it would be a shame not to use the opportunities for outdoor activities here in Queenstown."
