David Barry, President and CEO of Pursuit, shares his remarkable journey from ski instructor to a leader in hospitality and adventure tourism. He discusses how his background influences his leadership style and the culture at Pursuit, emphasizing humility and the importance of building connections. Barry highlights the transformation of ski resorts post-crisis and the essential values of safety and guest experience at Pursuit. He also offers insightful advice for young professionals and reflects on the unique experiences that drive a love for the outdoors.
David Barry's career progression from ski instructor to CEO exemplifies the importance of humility and hands-on leadership in hospitality.
The culture at Pursuit prioritizes employee feedback and open communication, fostering collaboration and continuous improvement among teams.
Focusing on creating memorable customer experiences over traditional management defines Pursuit's innovative approach in the adventure tourism industry.
Deep dives
Leadership and Personal Background
David Barry's journey to becoming the CEO of Pursuit is marked by an extensive background in hospitality and adventure tourism. His early experiences as a ski instructor at Mont Tremblant set the groundwork for his unique leadership approach, where he emphasizes humility and hands-on involvement in every aspect of the business. Barry recounts how he pursued a job that initially seemed out of reach after creatively responding to feedback about his appearance and age. This story illustrates his tenacity and hints at the leadership style he would later cultivate, prioritizing connections between team members and guests at Pursuit.
The Importance of Humility in Leadership
Barry discusses the role of humility in leadership, emphasizing that effective leaders recognize their position does not make them superior. He highlights the culture at Pursuit, where leaders are expected to be hands-on and supportive of their employees, ensuring a collaborative environment. By focusing on both guests and staff in the company's mission, Barry demonstrates that Pursuit is committed to creating unforgettable experiences for everyone involved. This culture fosters a sense of unity and shared purpose, which is essential for the company's continued success.
Transitioning to Experience-Focused Management
David Barry's transition from managing ski resorts to leading Pursuit involved a significant shift towards prioritizing customer experiences over traditional operational management. He reflects on how success in the hospitality and adventure tourism industries is derived from creating memorable experiences rather than simply offering services. Through storytelling, Barry conveys the essence of CMH, where the focus is on ensuring guests enjoy the adventure in a safe and joyful environment. This approach not only nurtures a loyal customer base but also sets Pursuit apart as an innovative player in the experience-driven market.
Creating a Culture of Continuous Improvement
At Pursuit, Barry emphasizes the commitment to continuous improvement and open communication within the organization. He fosters a culture where employees can share feedback and suggestions without fear, and where leadership values employee insights as a means of driving the company's evolution. This open-door policy promotes accountability and encourages teams to discuss what they enjoy about their work or areas they believe could be enhanced. By regularly engaging with team members, Barry ensures that Pursuit's growth aligns with the insights and needs of its staff and clientele.
Focus on Safety and Iconic Experiences
Safety is paramount at Pursuit, reflecting Barry's prior experience in the aviation and hospitality industries. He views operational safety as foundational to providing exceptional experiences for guests and ensuring the well-being of employees. Pursuit's values include creating iconic experiences that resonate with guests, which is achieved through their diverse offerings across the globe. Barry firmly believes that memorable moments and breathtaking views are vital in creating lasting impressions, and this philosophy drives the strategic direction of Pursuit as an attractions and hospitality company.
Willy was joined by ski instructor turned hospitality visionary David Barry, President and CEO of Pursuit.
They explored David’s career journey and how he climbed through the ranks, how his unique background shapes his leadership style, the culture he has built at Pursuit, the importance of humility, advice for young professionals, what he values in new hires, the current state of adventure tourism, and much more.