SAM Magazine—Park City, Utah, July 13, 2022—Todd Bennett will become president and chief operating officer of Deer Valley Resort, Utah, effective Aug. 1, 2022. A ski and hospitality industry veteran of 23 years, with experience at The Walt Disney Company and Vail Mountain, Bennett brings an extensive leadership background to the Alterra Mountain Company-owned resort. 

“Todd has an impressive background in developing and leading guest-centric teams by focusing on the overall employee experience and culture,” said Alterra COO Mark Brownlie. “His vision to blend legendary experiences only found at Deer Valley with new and innovative offerings ahead, plus his love of the mountains, is an ideal match for a resort that is committed to setting the bar for excellence in guest experiences.”

Bennet began his career in the ski industry in 1999 in Colorado, spending several years at Vail Mountain overseeing resort operations, staffing and guest relations. He then spent nearly two decades with The Walt Disney Company, most recently serving as the executive director of product. Prior positions with The Walt Disney Company include general manager at Disney California Adventure Park, general manager of Downtown Disney’s parking and on-site sales, director of experience design, and senior manager of member development and season passes. 

In addition, Bennet’s passion for snowsports and the outdoors led him to co-found an artist-focused outdoor media company, Open Road Ski Company, a direct-to-consumer publishing business that worked closely with ski map artist James Niehues on his best-selling book, The Man Behind the Maps.

“I am thrilled at the opportunity to bring my experience in destination operations and service to Deer Valley Resort and contribute to the ‘Deer Valley Difference’ that makes this place so special,” Bennett said. “I have long loved the mountains and the history of the ski industry and am honored to join this community and be a part of its future.”

Bennett’s initial focus will be on the Snow Park base area redevelopment, reimagining 15 acres of surface parking lots into a modern base area.