SAM Magazine-Vancouver, Nov. 2, 2006-Joe Houssian, Intrawest founder and CEO, is retiring, and Intrawest president and chief operating officer Alex Wasilov replaces him effective immediately. Wasilov, who joined Intrawest two years ago, will report to Fortress Investment Group CEO Wes Edens and managing director Bill Doniger. Houssian will serve in an advisory capacity.

Alex Wasilov

Wasilov takes on full responsibility for all operations and management of the company. He brings more than 30 years of experience at Xerox, Eastman Kodak and Rosenbluth International and a successful track record with multi-national organizations to the task.

"I have the unique opportunity to assume the leadership position at a company with leading market share and tremendous momentum," said Wasilov. "Throughout my career, I have participated in building high-growth, global organizations, and I look forward to working together with Fortress to lead Intrawest into the next era of growth."

Wasilov joined Intrawest in 2005 as a member of the board of directors. In April 2006, he was appointed president and chief operating officer. His resume includes 22 years at Eastman Kodak, where he ultimately served as COO, president of emerging markets for Xerox, and president of Rosenbluth International, a travel management company operating in 57 countries with sales in excess of $3 billion. Immediately prior to joining Intrawest, Wasilov was president of Hirtle Callaghan, a $12 billion financial asset management firm.