Angel Fire, NM – Angel Fire Resort has announced the appointment of John Kitts to the position of Chief Executive Officer, effective July 23. Kitts, who has been the New Mexico ski and snowboard resort’s Chief Financial Officer for the past two years, will oversee Angel Fire Resort’s five principal businesses — Operations, Membership, Timeshare, Resort Development and Real Estate Sales.nPrior to working for Angel Fire Resort, Kitts owned and operated a consulting and investment management company in Durango, Colo., which counted among its many ski and golf resort clients were Starwood Capital Group, Highlands Lake and Logo Vista Golf Courses. Over the course of his 25 years in the ski industry, Kitts has worked in senior level management positions for Telluride Ski & Golf Company, Kirkwood Resort Company, and Intrawest Squaw Corporation.
Kitts’ appointment comes on the heels of Pat Brunstad’s recent resignation. Brunstad has served as the resort’s CEO and Director of Development since 2008. He was instrumental in completing the construction of the resort’s new $17 million country club, guiding extensive hotel renovations and leading other resort-wide construction projects over the course of his tenure as CEO. Brunstad is leaving to spend time with his wife and family.
“We are fortunate to have the caliber of executive needed to fill this role already in-house,” says Gregg Allen, chairman of the board at Angel Fire. “John’s industry background, experience with Angel Fire Resort, and proven work ethic, will make the transition seamless and enable us to continue the momentum moving forward with key development projects. Pat has done a tremendous job as CEO for the resort and we wish him well on his travel adventures.”
As CEO for Angel Fire Resort Operations, LLC, Kitts will oversee all aspects of Angel Fire Resort management and operations, including membership, hospitality, mountain and golf operations, real estate and development, marketing, legal and finance.
“I am excited to take on this new role,” says Kitts. “The improvements to the resort over the past two years have made a measurable and positive impact on our business and within the community. My goal is to accept the baton from Pat and continue moving forward to make Angel Fire Resort the premier four-season destination in the Southwest.”