Bill Hornbuckle Joins the Board of Directors at Vail Resorts

Vail Resorts, Inc. has recently appointed Bill Hornbuckle, the CEO and President of MGM Resorts International, to its board of directors. This decision is seen as a strategic move to amplify the company’s operational excellence and guest experience focus. With a rich history in the hospitality sector spanning over 35 years, Hornbuckle is well-positioned to contribute to the ongoing evolution of Vail Resorts.

Hornbuckle has been at the helm of MGM for six years, where he has successfully navigated the organization through transformative changes. Under his leadership, MGM has shifted towards a diversified, experience-oriented business model, growing its offerings in dining, entertainment, and premium guest experiences. His extensive background includes senior leadership roles in various capacities, including President, Chief Operating Officer, and Chief Marketing Officer at MGM, where he has driven both domestic and international expansions.

Rob Katz, the CEO of Vail Resorts, expressed confidence in Hornbuckle's capabilities, stating, "Bill is an accomplished hospitality leader with deep experience operating world-class resorts, building guest loyalty, and elevating service." This appointment aligns with Vail Resorts’ new initiative, Epic Experience, aimed at making every aspect of a mountain visit seamless and personalized. Katz noted Hornbuckle's potential impact on these efforts and the addition of his valuable insights to the board.

Hornbuckle himself expressed excitement about joining Vail Resorts’ board, highlighting his deep admiration of the company’s iconic destinations and exceptional offerings. His commitment to leveraging technology and innovation to enhance guest experiences aligns perfectly with Vail Resorts’ goals. He aims to ensure every guest's experience is centered around their needs and preferences.

Living in Las Vegas, Hornbuckle graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Hotel Administration from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. His career is marked by significant contributions to the travel industry, particularly in creating a favorable environment for tourism in the U.S. He currently chairs the U.S. Travel Association and has played a pivotal role in enhancing Las Vegas' sports entertainment landscape, including the city's first professional sports franchise, the NHL's Golden Knights.

With a second home in Park City and a deep love for the outdoors, Hornbuckle’s passion extends beyond business; he appreciates the broader recreational and experiential leisure sectors, which resonate strongly with Vail Resorts' mission. As the latest addition to the Vail Resorts board, he joins industry leaders like Reggie Chambers, Sue Decker, and others committed to reinforcing the company's stature as a premier destination in the resort industry.

Vail Resorts operates a portfolio of renowned North American ski resorts, including Vail Mountain, Breckenridge, and Park City Mountain, among others. It is also dedicated to sustainability and aims for a zero net operating footprint by 2030. Their vision involves not only enhancing guest experiences but also cultivating strong community engagement and promoting staff welfare. Bill Hornbuckle's appointment signals an exciting chapter for Vail Resorts as it continues to strive for excellence in the mountain resort sector.