Amanda Youell – Leading with vision, strategy, and community at SkyCity Queenstown
For Amanda Youell, leadership isn’t about titles - it’s about purpose, people, and progress. As General Manager of SkyCity Queenstown, she’s redefining what it means to lead one of New Zealand’s most iconic hospitality and entertainment venues.
With over 15 years of experience across commercial strategy, brand development, and cross-functional leadership, Amanda is known for turning challenges into opportunities. Now at the helm of SkyCity Queenstown, she brings fresh energy and a future-focused mindset to everything she does.
Since stepping into the role earlier this year, Amanda has worked closely with the team to refresh the look and feel of the venue - creating a more vibrant, guest-centric environment. She’s collaborated with the Food & Beverage team to launch new promotions at Wild Thyme Bar & Kitchen, including Happy Hour specials, First Table partnerships, dining combo offers, and a rotating Cocktail of the Week - all designed to attract and delight local guests.
And that’s just the beginning. Amanda is also leading the planning of a major refurbishment, set for 2026, working with architects and stakeholders to reimagine SkyCity Queenstown as a leader in immersive entertainment.
“Queenstown is constantly evolving,” Amanda says. “To stay relevant, we need to be looking ahead - not relying on what’s worked in the past. Anticipating what guests want next is what energises and inspires me and the team thrives on that challenge.”
A major focus this year has been the national rollout of Carded Play - a regulatory change requiring all casino guests to register with ID before playing. While the project brings operational complexity, Amanda saw it as an opportunity to elevate service and support her team through meaningful change.
“Change doesn’t have to be intimidating when your people feel supported,” she says. “We focus on open communication, empathy, and hands-on training - because when your team feels confident, your guests feel it too.”
Community at the core
Amanda’s leadership extends beyond the venue walls. Under her guidance, SkyCity Queenstown continues to grow its role as a community partner. A source of pride for the entire team is their sponsorship of local organisations making a tangible impact.
SkyCity Queenstown proudly sponsors the Queenstown Stampede ice hockey team - a beloved and fiercely competitive squad that brings energy and spirit to the region. This partnership reflects SkyCity’s commitment to supporting sport, wellness, and community connection.
The team also champions the work of the Queenstown Winter Pride, Chamber of Commerce, Queenstown Trails Trust, and the SkyCity Queenstown Community Trust - supporting multiple grants and projects across health, education, arts, and social services. “This is one of the most meaningful aspects of what we do - giving back to the community that gives so much to us,” Amanda says.
Before joining SkyCity, Amanda held senior roles in Queenstown’s tourism and hospitality sector, most recently as head of marketing and sustainability at Millbrook Resort. There, she led the resort’s post-Covid recovery, reformed procurement practices, and secured government funding for environmental initiatives.
Her leadership style - grounded in empathy, enthusiasm, and accountability - remains central to her approach today. Whether mentoring staff, managing change, or enhancing the guest experience, Amanda believes strong teams and inclusive culture are key to long-term success.
“I want every person who walks through our doors - staff or guest - to feel safe, seen, and valued,” she says. “Culture isn’t written in a handbook. It’s something you live and lead by example every day.”
Amanda’s vision for SkyCity Queenstown reaches far beyond gaming. She’s passionate about creating a dynamic entertainment precinct - blending hospitality, live events, and memorable experiences in the heart of Queenstown.
“The opportunity here is immense,” she says. “We’re in one of the most beautiful places on earth. I want SkyCity Queenstown to be a must-visit destination - not just for tourists, but for locals too.”
From floorplan redesigns and product upgrades to strategic partnerships and community engagement, Amanda is building a bold, connected roadmap for the future.
Empowering the next generation of women in business
Amanda’s advice to aspiring women in business is both practical and powerful.
“Don’t wait until you feel 100% ready - say yes to the opportunity, even if it makes you nervous. Growth comes from stretching, learning, and trusting yourself to figure it out.”
She also encourages authenticity in leadership. “You don’t need to lead like anyone else. Lead like you - with empathy, clarity, and courage. That’s where the real strength lies.”
With a clear vision, collaborative spirit, and belief in the power of people, Amanda Youell is shaping the next chapter of SkyCity Queenstown - and redefining what leadership looks like for women across the country.
