SAM Magazine—Bend, Ore., May 2, 2023—Powdr has named John Merriman the new president and general manager of Mt. Bachelor Ski & Snowboard Resort, starting May 22. Merriman is the current vice president of finance and sales at Powdr-owned Copper Mountain Resort in Colorado, a role he has held since 2016.   

“Working with [John] for the past seven years, I know him to be a people-first leader who has proven experience developing high performing teams, forming successful business partnerships across organizations, and inspiring the highest caliber of customer service,” said Powdr CEO Justin Sibley. “I am thrilled he accepted this role, and our team will support his transition and success however we can.”  

Sibley also thanked Powdr senior vice president of finance Brian Dobias for stepping in as interim general manager following former GM John McCleod’s departure in February. “He has been a wonderful leader for the team and served Mt. Bachelor well as they rounded out the season,” Sibley said.  

Prior to joining Copper in 2016, Merriman was vice president of finance in North America for telecom company Level 3 Communications. He worked for the company and its predecessors for a total of 17 years. Merriman earned his MBA from the University of Denver and his bachelor’s degree from Metropolitan State University, also in Denver.

Merriman said when he first visited the resort, “it was immediately apparent that Mt. Bachelor is such a special place, with a talented and passionate team. I am honored to have the opportunity to be the next caretaker of this world-class ski area. My family and I are looking forward to becoming active members of the Bend community, and I as the general manager, likewise, will work to further the partnerships between the region and Mt. Bachelor.”