Kampgrounds of America (KOA) promoted longtime executive Chris Fairlee to chief operations officer, consolidating key business functions under a newly created Campground Operations division aimed at boosting performance across its franchise and owned campground network.
The move unites KOA’s primary revenue drivers, franchise services, owned campground operations, commercial strategy, acquisitions, and franchise development—under a single leadership structure.
The appointment is designed to support franchisees, enhance guest experiences, and strengthen overall campground performance.
Fairlee brings more than 20 years of experience with KOA, having led system development and franchise sales before expanding his role over the past five years to oversee acquisitions and dispositions for KOA’s owned portfolio, known as OAK.
His deep operational and strategic knowledge positions him to drive growth and innovation across the company’s network of more than 500 campgrounds.
“Chris is a deeply respected leader within the outdoor hospitality industry with a proven track record of driving growth and excellence across our KOA system,” Toby O’Rourke, president and CEO of KOA, said in a press release.
“For over two decades, he has helped shape our business, steward our brand, and strengthen our franchise and owned portfolio. His deep understanding of both the operational and strategic aspects of our business uniquely positions him to help lead KOA into the future,” O’Rourke added.
Fairlee said he is motivated by the dedication of KOA employees and franchise partners. “As I step into this new role, I’m most excited to work even more closely with our talented team to foster growth, drive innovation, and to support one another as we deliver exceptional experiences for our guests,” he said.
Fairlee holds a B.S. in Business Marketing from Montana State University – Bozeman and serves on the RV Industry Association Campground Coalition and the Outdoor Hospitality Industry Business Forum.
KOA, founded more than 60 years ago, operates the world’s largest system of privately owned, open-to-the-public campgrounds and includes the Terramor Outdoor Resorts brand, which focuses on upscale glamping experiences.
The company provides extensive support to campground owners through education, design, recruitment, marketing, and technology services.