Andrew Baker is set to take the helm as the new president and CEO of Alpine Canada, aiming to capitalize on his previous contributions to the organization. He will succeed Therese Brisson, who recently moved on to lead Skate Canada after a six-year tenure.
With over two decades of experience at the Canadian Olympic Committee, Baker most recently held the position of chief external affairs officer. He is scheduled to commence his role at Alpine Canada in September.
Alpine Canada is responsible for overseeing alpine and Para alpine racing as well as ski cross activities, boasting approximately 15,000 registered racers and 5,500 coaches spread across 200 clubs nationwide as outlined in the organization’s 2025 annual report. Additionally, Alpine Canada hosts international World Cup races within Canada.
Upcoming events on the Alpine Canada calendar include two women’s giant slaloms at Mont-Tremblant, Que., in December, along with a World Cup ski cross event scheduled for March at Craigleith in Ontario. Baker’s appointment aligns with the commencement of a new Olympic cycle leading up to the 2030 Winter Games in the French Alps.
Hailing from Montreal, the 43-year-old Baker played a pivotal role in the COC’s efforts to secure increased core funding for national sport organizations. In a significant move, the federal government announced an injection of $755 million into high-performance sport over the next five years, with a subsequent annual commitment of $118 million.
Expressing his enthusiasm for the role, Baker highlighted the rich history of excellence in Canadian sports, particularly in alpine, ski cross, and Para alpine disciplines. He emphasized the importance of adequately funding and supporting athletes to inspire future generations.
Despite successfully meeting its world championship and Olympic/Paralympic medal targets, Alpine Canada faced challenges during the 2022 Milan Cortina Games, where Canadian athletes fell short of securing Olympic medals in alpine skiing and ski cross. However, Canadian Para alpine athletes managed to clinch a silver and four bronze medals at the event.
Looking ahead to 2030, Alpine Canada is exploring opportunities to enhance its competitive landscape, especially in speed disciplines following the conclusion of World Cup downhill and super-G races in Canada. The organization is actively seeking new venues for men’s speed races, with Whistler or Panorama, B.C., being considered as potential hosts.
The recent government investments into international sports events and training center upgrades at key locations like Panorama, Whistler, and Nakiska Ski Resort are expected to bolster the development of athletes aiming for success at the 2030 Winter Games. Baker emphasized the significance of these investments in providing essential resources for athletes on their journey to the podium.
