A longtime Vancouver Island resident, passionate skiier and mountain biker has been appointed General Manager of the Mount Washington Alpine Resort.
Pacific Group Resorts announced the appointment of Mike Manara as the new General Manager, effective July 1. Manara brings almost three decades of resort operations experience to his new role.
Manara, who currently serves as Mount Washington’s Senior Director of Operations, has been a cornerstone of the resort’s growth and community engagement for over 25 years. His portfolio has spanned lift operations, snow sports schools, slopes grooming, rentals, retail, Nordic activities, special events, and summer programming including development of the Bike Park and Eagle’s Flight ZipTour.
“I’m just a guy who likes to ski,” Manara said with a smile. “For me, it’s always been about sharing the joy of the mountain with our community. We’ve got an amazing crew here, and I’m excited to lead with a ‘ski-first’ mindset — focusing on making our wonderful terrain accessible, creating great snow surface quality, and enhancing the moments that create lifelong memories for our guests.”
In addition to being a CSIA level 4 ski instructor, Mike is deeply engaged across the ski industry and currently serves as Co-Chair of the Snow Sports Committee for the Canada West Ski Areas Association (CWSAA). His operational experience is matched by his connection to the Comox Valley community and a longstanding commitment to mountain culture, now raising his family here with those same values. Mike is also a founding volunteer board member of The United Riders of Cumberland (UROC) and worked for the organization more than a decade, including executing the land access agreement while serving as UROC’s president. This agreement still provides primary trail access in Cumberland today.
Mark Fischer, President and CEO of Pacific Group Resorts, Mount Washington’s parent company, noted, “Mike embodies the values that define Mount Washington — authenticity, passion, and a love for the outdoors. He’s earned the respect of his peers and staff through years of hard work and a genuine love for the mountain experience. He brings fresh energy and a clear vision for enhancing both the guest experience and the resort product.”
Mike’s promotion comes as Dean Prentice, the resort’s current General Manager, prepares to retire after nearly a decade at the helm of Mount Washington. During his tenure, Prentice played a vital role in enhancing operations, investing in infrastructure, and expanding the resort’s appeal year-round.
“Dean has done an outstanding job leading Mount Washington through a transformative period,” added Fischer. “His dedication and professionalism have elevated the guest experience and positioned the resort for long-term success. We thank him for his leadership and wish him all the best in retirement.”
