Vail Resorts, Inc. has appointed MGM Resorts International President and CEO Bill Hornbuckle to the company’s Board of Directors.
The company said “Hornbuckle oversees all aspects of MGM Resorts’ strategy, operations, hospitality, and gaming development projects.” Since assuming the role six years ago, he has led MGM through “transformative periods while advancing the company’s evolution toward a more diversified, experience-led business model and driving growth in dining, entertainment and premium experiences.”
Hornbuckle reportedly brings over 35 years of experience across hospitality, resort operations, marketing, strategy and large-scale integrated resort management. Before becoming CEO, he reportedly held a range of senior leadership roles at MGM Resorts, including president and chief operating officer, chief marketing officer and executive roles at several of the company’s largest resorts. He has played a key role in leading MGM Resorts’ domestic and international expansion and the launch of its customer loyalty platform.
“Bill is an accomplished hospitality leader with deep experience operating world-class resorts, building guest loyalty and elevating service,” said Rob Katz, CEO, Vail Resorts. “As we launch Epic Experience – our multi-year roadmap to make every part of the mountain journey more seamless, personalized and memorable—we are thrilled to welcome Bill to our board and know he will immediately make a substantial contribution to our efforts.”
Said Hornbuckle. “Having spent my entire career in hospitality and as someone with a personal connection to the mountains, I have long admired the iconic destinations and exceptional experiences that define Vail Resorts. Throughout my career, I’ve been passionate about leveraging technology and digital innovation to elevate the guest experience while keeping guests at the center of every decision. I look forward to working alongside my fellow directors and the leadership team to help the company continue creating exceptional experiences and delivering long-term value for shareholders.”
Hornbuckle, who resides in Las Vegas, currently serves as chair of the U.S. Travel Association, a nonprofit “dedicated to growing travel and tourism to the United States.” The company said he has also played a “significant role in expanding the sports entertainment offerings in Las Vegas, helping to bring the city to its first professional sports franchise, the NHL’s Golden Knights, in his capacity as a Board member and president of T-Mobile Arena.” Most recently, through, his service on the Clark County Stadium Authority Board, Hornbuckle assisted with efforts to attract the NFL’s Raiders to Las Vegas.
With a longstanding home in Park City, Hornbuckle said he brings a “sincere appreciation for the mountains, strong familiarity with Vail Resorts’ guests and a true passion for the broader outdoor and experiential leisure sector.”
Hornbuckle’s appointment brings the Vail Resorts Board of Directors to 10 members, joining Reggie Chambers, Sue Decker, Rob Katz, Iris Knobloch, Nadia Rawlinson, Hilary Schneider, Peter Vaughn, Michele Romanow and Bruce Sewell.
Images courtesy Vail Resorts, Inc.
