#United States #Vail Resorts #Broomfield, Colorado #Rob Katz #Kirsten Lynch

Vail Resorts Leadership Transition

Vail Resorts, Inc. has officially announced a notable leadership change. Rob Katz, who previously held the role of Chief Executive Officer for sixteen years, is stepping back into the position as the company’s CEO. This decision comes after Kirsten Lynch has decided to step down as CEO and leave her position as a director on the Board. Nevertheless, Lynch will maintain an advisory role to assist with a smooth transition for the coming months.

The announcement was made public on May 27, 2025, with the Board emphasizing that now is the right time for this leadership shift as Vail Resorts continues to focus on its strategic goals and transformative initiatives. Bruce Sewell, Lead Independent Director of the Board, expressed confidence in Katz. He remarked on Katz’s impressive track record which includes driving innovation and maintaining consistent performance amidst challenges in the ski industry over the years.

Katz's tenure has been defined by his capacity to reinvigorate the company during periods of stagnation and difficulty in the broader economic environment. With over three decades of experience at Vail Resorts, Katz is anticipated to continue the legacy of providing exceptional service to employees, guests, and the communities that the company serves.

Acknowledgment of Leadership

During the announcement, Sewell also acknowledged Kirsten Lynch's significant contributions to Vail Resorts throughout her tenure. Under Lynch's leadership, the company saw the transformational growth of its Epic Pass and successfully navigated unprecedented challenges in the industry. Her leadership has not only been about oversight but also about strategic investments towards innovation that have set Vail Resorts on a course for future success.

Katz, upon his reappointment, expressed great pride in returning to the CEO position, emphasizing his enduring passion for Vail Resorts and the skiing and snowboarding industry. Katz reassures stakeholders of his commitment to improve the experience at their mountain resorts and further the company’s long-standing culture of innovation and improvement.

Looking Ahead: Company Performance and Expectations

As part of the transition, Vail Resorts reaffirmed its fiscal guidance for 2025. The company anticipates its Resort Reported EBITDA to meet expectations set in previous communications, despite accounting for transition-related costs. Additionally, trends in early-season pass sales remain consistent, reflecting the preliminary results shared in previous releases.

The company’s fiscal performance and metrics will be discussed in greater detail during its earnings call scheduled for June 5, 2025. This call will provide additional insights into sales results and the overall management outlook for the season ahead.

About Rob Katz

Rob Katz, now 58, has been intricately involved with Vail Resorts since 1991. His rise to CEO began back in February 2006, after which he was appointed as the Chairperson of the Board in 2009. Katz's history with the company underscores his commitment and connection to both its operations and mission, which encompasses a diverse network of leading ski resorts across North America and beyond.

In addition to his roles at Vail Resorts, Katz is also a board member for YETI Holdings, Inc. and participates actively in initiatives to enhance mental healthcare access for mountain communities through the Katz Amsterdam Foundation. His leadership is anticipated to play an instrumental role in guiding Vail Resorts through the changing dynamics of the ski and hospitality sectors.

Company Profile

Vail Resorts, Inc. operates a variety of premier ski resorts including Vail Mountain, Breckenridge, and Whistler Blackcomb. The company is dedicated to ensuring an exceptional experience for its guests and employees while focusing on sustainability through its EpicPromise initiative, aiming for a zero net operating footprint by 2030. With an extensive retail operation and rental locations across North America, Vail Resorts continues to be a leader in the ski resort industry, committed to enhancing the sport and experience of skiing for all.

For more updates about Vail Resorts and their offerings, you can visit www.VailResorts.com or explore their product offerings at www.EpicPass.com.