Vail Mountain VP Beth Howard Retires After 41 Years

"I'm proud of what we built together" — Beth Howard, retiring vice president and chief operating officer of Vail Mountain, said this about her 41-year career with Vail Resorts. Her legacy is undeniable — a career spanning four decades, shaping the modern ski and hospitality experience across Vail Resorts' flagship ski areas.

Howard started as a college intern in 1985 at Beaver Creek Resort. She rose through the ranks, leading company-wide initiatives, overseeing operations at over 100 restaurants and eight private clubs. Her impact on the ski industry is still felt, from pioneering new cabin dining concepts to creating experiences like Beaver Creek Cookie Time and Mountaintop Champagne Töst at Northstar.

Make no mistake, Howard's influence extends beyond Vail Resorts. Her commitment to innovation and hospitality has set a standard for the entire ski industry. Jody Churich, senior vice president and chief operating officer for Vail Resorts, said it's "impossible to overstate" Howard's impact on the company and its guests. The numbers back this up; Howard oversaw the development of numerous projects, including Vail's Legacy Hut, Camp Hale, and the Avanti Performance Center.

The short version: Howard's career is a reflection of her dedication and vision. She played a key role in securing USFS approvals for McCoy Park at Beaver Creek Resort and led the 2019 Vail Mountain snowmaking expansion. Her leadership has been recognized with awards, including the 2015 Ski Area Management SAMMY Leadership Award.

Read that again: 41 years with one company is a rare feat. Howard's perseverance and adaptability have been crucial in her success. As a graduate of the University of Northern Iowa, she brought a unique perspective to the industry, combining her degree in food and nutrition and business to drive innovation.

Folks around here know the impact of Howard's work. From the Epic Mountain Burger to fresh strudel at Vail, her creations have become synonymous with the Vail Resorts experience. Worth watching: how the next generation of leaders will build on Howard's foundation and carry the spirit of innovation forward.

Howard will continue to lead Vail Mountain until her replacement is named - a transition that will be closely watched by the ski industry. The community will be eager to see how her legacy continues to shape the future of Vail Resorts. Her influence on the ski industry will be felt for years to come, as her contributions have left an lasting mark.

In a statement, Howard reflected on her career, saying, "It has been the honor of my life to serve these mountains and this community." Her dedication to the industry and the community is a reminder that, even in a rapidly changing world, some things remain constant - a commitment to excellence, a passion for innovation, and a love for the mountains.

The news of Howard's retirement has sent ripples through the industry, with many praising her contributions and legacy. As the ski industry continues to evolve, the question of who will fill the void left by Howard's departure remains. The ski industry will be waiting to see what happens next.

A Lasting Legacy

As Howard moves on to the next chapter of her life, her legacy remains. The ski industry will continue to feel her influence, from the dining experiences she pioneered to the hospitality initiatives she developed. Locals and visitors alike will continue to enjoy the results of her labor, even if they don't realize it. Her work in hospitality has also had a lasting impact, shaping the way resorts approach guest services.

In the end, it's not about the awards or the recognition; it's about the impact. And Beth Howard's impact on the ski industry is undeniable. She will be remembered as a pioneer, a leader, and a true innovator. Her retirement marks the end of an era, but it also signals a new beginning - a chance for the next generation of leaders to build on her foundation and take the industry to new heights.

As the news of her retirement spreads, the community will be watching to see what's next for Vail Resorts and the ski industry as a whole. Beth Howard's legacy will continue to shape the future of the industry, as her contributions have set a high standard for others to follow.