Kampgrounds of America, Inc. (KOA) has announced two key promotions within its leadership team, with longtime leader Chris Fairlee taking on the role of Chief Operations Officer and Brian Elsmore assuming the position of Chief Information Officer. This move is expected to have a significant impact on KOA's operations, as both leaders bring extensive experience and expertise in their respective fields. With over 20 years of service to KOA, Fairlee has built deep knowledge across the organization's franchise system, having led system development and franchise sales for many years. His expanded scope includes acquisitions and dispositions for KOA's owned portfolio (OAK), showcasing his ability to drive growth and strategic decisions.
Under Fairlee's leadership, KOA's primary revenue drivers will be consolidated under a single Campground Operations division, focusing on strengthening campground performance, supporting franchisees and operators, and enhancing the guest experience across KOA's network. This structure is designed to bring about operational efficiencies and drive business growth, as Fairlee brings his expertise in operations and strategic planning to this new role.
Fairlee's appointment has been welcomed by President and CEO Toby O'Rourke, who praised his leadership skills and track record of driving excellence across the KOA system. With over two decades of service, Fairlee has helped shape the company's business, steward its brand, and strengthen its franchise and owned portfolio. His deep understanding of both operational and strategic aspects of the business uniquely positions him to lead KOA into the future.
Fairlee is also a respected leader in the outdoor hospitality industry, serving on the RV Industry Association (RVIA) Campground Coalition and the Outdoor Hospitality Industry (OHI) Business Forum. This demonstrates his commitment to staying at the forefront of industry trends and best practices.
In addition to Fairlee's promotion, Brian Elsmore has been appointed as Chief Information Officer, succeeding Andy Metroka who will retire in March. Elsmore brings 16 months of experience as senior vice president of information systems, having previously served as director of IT operations for nearly four years.
As CIO, Elsmore will continue to advance KOA's technology, data, and systems infrastructure, further enhancing campground operations and elevating the guest experience across KOA's network. His expertise in systems architecture and IT operations has been instrumental in modernizing KOA's technology platforms.
The appointment of Elsmore as CIO marks a significant shift in KOA's focus on technological innovation, with O'Rourke praising his leadership skills and commitment to driving innovation. With deep expertise in systems architecture and IT operations, Elsmore is well-positioned to drive growth and excellence in this critical area.
Elsmore's background includes technology and operations leadership roles across multiple industries, including serving as CIO/CTO at Tower Hill Insurance Group for over twelve years. This demonstrates his ability to lead complex technological initiatives and drive business growth through innovation.
The promotion of Fairlee and Elsmore marks an exciting new chapter in KOA's history, with both leaders poised to drive growth, innovation, and excellence across the organization.
The appointment of Chris Fairlee as Chief Operations Officer and Brian Elsmore as Chief Information Officer marks a significant shift in KOA's leadership, positioning the company for future growth and innovation.
