Mr Copland (33) has been appointed chief executive of Ruapehu Alpine Lifts, starting on November 7.
He replaces Dave Mazey, who is retiring after nearly 30 years.Mr Copland told the Otago Daily Times that after four seasons at Coronet Peak, the new role was a "natural progression" in his career.
It would also bring new challenges, as he would be overseeing far bigger, more complex and higher altitude operations on Mt Ruapehu.
But he admitted to "mixed emotions" about the move, as he had grown up in the Queenstown area and learned to ski at Coronet Peak and The Remarkables.
"It’s a very special place for me."
A highlight of his time at Coronet Peak was helping to turn around five years of falling visitor numbers into three consecutive years of rising patronage, including a 150% climb in night skiing business.
He was also proud of improving environmental practices at the ski area, something recognised with the achievement of Qualmark Enviro Gold status and a Large Business Leadership Green Ribbon Award in 2014.
The toughest period had been his first year or two in the role, which was his first in the ski industry after previous roles in construction and property.
"It was a huge learning curve for me."
He is also a founder and director of software start-up Zero Harm Farm in Queenstown, as well as a co-founder and director for Engineers Without Borders, a charitable organisation that provides volunteer engineers for infrastructure and relief projects.
He expects to set up a home in Taupo with wife Rachel and their two children.
NZSki chief executive Paul Anderson said Mr Copland had done "great work" for the company, and it was inevitable he would go on to higher things.
"It’s a great next role for Ross. It’s an opportunity that I’m sure he’s going to grab with both hands."
The ski area manager job would be advertised soon, he said.
