Crystal Mountain promotes Chris MacInnes to President, hires Melcher as COO

THOMPSONVILLE, MI – Crystal Mountain is pleased to announce Chris MacInnes’ promotion to President of Crystal Enterprises Inc. and the hiring of John Melcher as the resort’s new Chief Operating Officer (COO).

Chris MacInnes, who serves as president of the resort’s real estate company, Crystal Properties Inc., now assumes the same role for Crystal Enterprises Inc. which operates the resort side of the business. John Melcher fills MacInnes’ previous role as COO and brings with him 25 years of experience from Fifth Third Bank, much of which has been in treasury management and commercial lending. Jim MacInnes’ position as chief executive officer (CEO) and board chairman remains unchanged.

“The resort business operates much like an orchestra in that it requires a diverse set of skills that are well coordinated in order to create a beautiful symphony,” said Jim MacInnes. “As our business continues to grow in size and complexity, the structure of our senior leadership team also needs to mirror that growth.” 

Chris MacInnes has been a part of Crystal’s leadership since joining the resort with her husband Jim in 1985. The two have guided Crystal through a transformation in which $100 million has been invested in development over the last two decades alone, the most recent of which is an $11 million expansion to the Inn at the Mountain - set to open later this summer. Chris has also been dedicated to the community and industry serving as a past chair of the Michigan Travel Commission and a number of previous board positions including current posts for the Michigan Economic Development Corporation and National Ski Areas Association. Her role as president will be commensurate with her leadership experience and intricate knowledge of the resort, overseeing all aspects of operations and development.

Melcher’s extensive background in management, commercial banking and sales represents an excellent mix of experience needed in his role as chief operating officer. He holds a degree in Economics from Denison University (Ohio) and an MBA from Case Western Reserve University (Ohio).  John also serves as a Reserve Sergeant for the Police Department in Traverse City where he resides with his wife, Beth and their two children, Henry and Cate.

“John and his family have been valued members of our Crystal Mountain community for many years,” says Chris MacInnes. “His understanding of our culture along with his track record as a consensus builder who brings strong analytical, communication and organizational skills makes this a very exciting addition to our team.”

Headshots available on DropBox.

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FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Brian Lawson, 231.378.2057

Debbie Bihlman, 231.378.2000, ext. 2508