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Mount Snow, Vermont, welcomes Lea Gabrielle Potts as its new Vice President and General Manager, effective December 19. Breaking from Vail Resorts’ usual practice of internal promotions, Potts’s appointment marks a significant external recruitment, reflecting a fresh direction for the high-volume resort.
Lea Gabrielle Potts, a newcomer to the ski industry but a seasoned leader, steps into a role vacated since late July, following Brian Suhadolc’s departure to Whistler Blackcomb in British Columbia. Potts brings over 25 years of global leadership experience from various demanding roles. Her background includes a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the U.S. Naval Academy and an MBA from MIT as a Sloan Fellow.
Her diverse career spans over a decade in the U.S. Navy as a fighter pilot, defense foreign liaison officer, human intelligence officer, and director of a sensitive intelligence program. Following her military service, Potts transitioned to significant roles such as the U.S. Special Envoy for Global Engagement at the U.S. Department of State and served as a national security and foreign relations reporter for networks including NBC News and Fox News.
“Lea has consistently demonstrated robust leadership, focusing on personal connection and steering complex operations to success,” commented Tim Baker, Senior Vice President and COO of Vail Resorts’ Eastern Region Mountain Division. “With the support of Mount Snow’s exceptional team, we are eager to see her innovative approach in action, enhancing the experiences of both guests and employees.”
Potts, who learned to ski at Liberty Mountain, Pennsylvania, shares a deep passion for the outdoors and mountain culture. “Skiing has always been a pivotal part of my life, from family traditions to memorable celebrations at Mount Snow,” said Potts. “I am excited to lead Mount Snow into its 70th season and beyond, continuing its legacy of memorable mountain experiences.”
This strategic hire is a rare move for Vail Resorts and signals a potentially transformative era for Mount Snow as it enters a milestone season. With Potts at the helm, the resort is poised to embrace new challenges and achievements.
Congratulations Lea Gabrielle Potts!
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