Operations at Gstaad Airport AG are about to change: Martin Rufener was elected as the new CEO by the board of directors, according to a Gstaad Airport AG press release. He will take up his new post in Saanen on 1 May 2020. Rufener has been the head coach of the Canadian national ski team for seven years. His contract expires next spring and he wants to return to Switzerland with his family. 

Roots in the Bernese Oberland
Rufener comes from the Bernese Oberland and is a trained helicopter pilot with around 5,000 hours of flight experience. He used to run a private airline in Switzerland. He knows the Saanenland well: For many years, he did regular helicopter flights from there to supply material to SAC huts and construction sites. On average, he spent 25 days a year on such assignments while in Switzerland.

For Rufener, it’s now time to begin a new professional chapter. “I’ve followed the development of the airfield for many years; the new construction of Gstaad Airport is a milestone. I’m looking forward to managing it along with a young team and developing new projects. I'm going to stay in touch with the Canadian racing skiers" he’s quoted as saying in the press release.

The employment contract for CEO Marc Steiner expires at the end of December. Until Rufener starts work, his deputy, Simon Anderman, will take over the function of CEO on an interim basis. 

Based on AvS / Anita Moser
Translated by Justine Hewson