New Boss for Cairngorm Mountain

10th April 2025

Mike  Gifford has been appointed CEO and will have overall responsibility for day to day operations and strategic developments at the publicly-owned Cairngorm Estate, which covers 3,500 acres.

He is an experienced ski, paddle sports, mountaineering and mountain biking instructor and was born in Aberdeen and educated at Keith Grammar School.

“Cairngorm Mountain is already a great asset for the local area and for Scotland, and I look forward to helping the business grow even stronger in future,” said Mike Gifford.

“I’m very conscious that the mountain and the wider estate have a special place in the hearts of local people, sports enthusiasts and visitors of all ages and abilities.

“Becoming chief executive is a big responsibility, but I’m delighted to be taking it on and excited to be working with the fantastic team here to make Cairngorm Mountain all it can be for present and future generations of customers.”

A key focus will be continuing the resort’s transition to a year-round attraction that offers a variety of family-friendly outdoor activities and environmental education in all seasons, while maintaining snowsports as its core winter activity.

Skiing on Cairngorm Mountain. Image © Dianne Frazer

Peter Mearns, chair of Cairngorm Mountain (Scotland) Ltd, said the new chief executive would be instrumental in shaping a successful future for the resort.

“This is a time of great opportunity for Cairngorm Mountain,” said Mr Mearns.

“In Mike Gifford, we are confident that we’ve found an excellent leader to start a new chapter and take the business forward.

“In addition to his business and sporting experience, he has impressive skills in leadership, financial management and stakeholder engagement, all of which will be invaluable at Cairngorm.

“Over the past few years, we have put a lot of effort into enhancing our customer offering with mountain biking and carting, child-friendly tubing slide and play areas, guaranteed snow for beginners, and enhancements to the car park, Ptarmigan building and viewing platform.

“That commitment to quality will stand us in good stead and continue to be a hallmark of our approach to developing Cairngorm’s potential.

“I’d also like to thank all our loyal customers who have continued to support Cairngorm through a very challenging period and hope they will join the board in wishing Mike every success.”

Mr Gifford will take up his new role at Cairngorm Mountain on 16th June.

Image supplied by Cairngorm Mountain