Bill Hornbuckle, the Chief Executive Officer and President of MGM Resorts International, has been appointed to the board of directors for Vail Resorts, Inc., the company announced Thursday. Hornbuckle, a veteran hospitality leader with over 35 years of experience, joins the board as the company launches a multi-year strategic roadmap focused on enhancing the guest experience.
Strategic Roadmap and Leadership
Hornbuckle's appointment comes as Vail Resorts begins implementing Epic Experience, a multi-year roadmap designed to make various stages of the mountain journey more personalized and seamless for travelers. Rob Katz, the Chief Executive Officer of Vail Resorts, noted that Hornbuckle's deep expertise in operating world-class resorts and building guest loyalty will make a substantial contribution to these efforts.
New Board Composition
The addition of Hornbuckle marks the tenth new member to join the Vail Resorts board of directors. He joins a group of directors that includes Reggie Chambers, Sue Decker, Rob Katz, Iris Knobloch, Nadia Rawlinson, Hilary Schneider, Peter Vaughn, Michele Romanow, and Bruce Sewell.
MGM Resorts Leadership
Hornbuckle has served as the head of MGM Resorts International for six years, leading the global hospitality and entertainment company through a period of transformation. Under his leadership, the company has evolved toward a more diversified, experience-led business model, driving growth across dining, entertainment, and premium experiences. His tenure at MGM has included previous senior roles as president, chief operating officer, and chief marketing officer, as well as leadership positions at several of the company's largest resort properties.
Las Vegas and Tourism Impact
In addition to his executive role at MGM, Hornbuckle serves as the Chair of the U.S. Travel Association, a nonprofit organization focused on growing tourism and travel within the United States. He has also been a prominent figure in the development of Las Vegas' sports and entertainment landscape. His previous contributions include serving as a board member and President of T-Mobile Arena, which helped bring the NHL's Golden Knights to the city. He also assisted in efforts to attract the NFL's Raiders to Las Vegas through his service on the Clark County Stadium Authority Board.
Personal Connection to the Mountains
Hornbuckle, who maintains a home in Park City, holds a Bachelor of Science in Hotel Administration from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. He expressed enthusiasm for the new role, stating that he has long admired the iconic destinations and exceptional experiences provided by Vail Resorts. Hornbuckle indicated a passion for using technology and digital innovation to keep guests at the center of every decision while delivering long-term value to shareholders.
Vail Resorts Global Reach
Vail Resorts operates a vast network of destination and local ski resorts across North America, Europe, and Australia. The company's portfolio includes major locations such as Vail Mountain, Breckenridge, Park City Mountain, Whistler Blackcomb, Stowe, Andermatt-Sedrun, and Crans-Montana Mountain Resort in Switzerland, as well as Perisher, Hotham, and Falls Creek in Australia. These destinations are accessible via the company's Epic Pass.
Company Mission and Scale
Beyond its ski resorts, Vail Resorts manages a collection of hotels under the RockResorts brand, a portfolio of vacation rentals, and the Grand Teton Lodge Company in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. The company also operates more than 250 retail and rental locations throughout North America. As part of its EpicPromise, the company is working toward a zero net operating footprint by 2030.
