Queenstown Trails Trust Appoints New Chief Executive

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

QUEENSTOWN TRAILS TRUST APPOINTS MARK WILLIAMS AS NEW CHIEF EXECUTIVE

The Queenstown Trails Trust has appointed respected Queenstown businessman and elite sportsman Mark (Willy) Williams as its new chief executive.

Chairman Tony McQuilkin says Williams, who replaces Mandy Kennedy as CEO, brings “grit, passion and a strong local connection” to the role.

“The trustees were hugely impressed with the calibre of the applicants but Willy stood out for these reasons and we are most excited about his appointment. He has a proven track record as an achiever who gets things done and we look forward to seeing this translate into solid achievements for the Trust, particularly in terms of more trails for the district.”

Williams (43) has been a resident of Queenstown for 20 years and co-founded and operated the well-known store R&R Sport in the resort.

He acknowledges his new position as Trails CEO is the “perfect fit”.

As a high profile cycling and endurance athlete he is addicted to the outdoor industry which has also been reflected in his business interests.

“I have always been fortunate that my business focus has been related to my sporting activities and my new role is fantastic because it continues that strong link allowing me to build on the relationships I have already developed during my work and cycling career.”

Williams paid tribute to the Trust’s former chief executives, Kaye Parker and Mandy Kennedy, for their expert guidance in developing the existing 120 km Queenstown Trail network.

“They have created a legacy and with my commitment to the trails I hope to continue where they left off. It is brilliant to have the opportunity to build on the sound foundation which has been achieved so far by the Trust.”

The Queenstown Trails Trust ten-year plan is an excellent blueprint for the future and a good framework to move forward with, according to Williams.

“I think the trail network is an incredible resource for Queenstown and my ongoing goal will be to get more people on bikes and out using the trails, not only for recreational use but also as an alternate transport link to work and school. The relocation of Wakatipu High School to Remarkables Park will provide an obvious chance for more people, particularly families and children, to use the trails to access school. As a father of young children I am aware of how important the trails will become in this respect.”

He says the change in direction in his career provides him with the chance to “get my teeth into something new and give back to the community. People will see me out on the trails as I lead by example, commuting to the office and taking advantage of Queenstown’s most outstanding asset.”

Williams is married to Lucy and has two daughters Merryn (4) and Cara (3). He takes up his new position with the Queenstown Trails Trust on May 15.

Sporting career highlights:

2016 & 2017 Pioneer MTB Stage Race – winner mixed category with Kate Fluker

2017 Cape Epic MTB Stage Race South Africa – 5th mixed category with Kate Fluker

World 24 Hour MTB Championships Australia -7th elite men

Trans-Rockies MTB race Canada – 12th

Podium finishes at Motatapu off-road multisport event and competitor in Godzone adventure race

© Scoop Media