Davy Ratchford
COO & General Manager | Snowbasin Resort
Davy Ratchford has been a transformative leader at Snowbasin Resort since 2018, ushering in an era marked by strategic growth and a guest-focused mentality. Under his guidance, Snowbasin has undergone significant capital improvements, including the addition of four new chairlifts, refined mountain restaurants and extensive parking expansions; these initiatives have aggressively increased the resort’s capacity and accessibility.
Davy’s impact on Snowbasin extends beyond operations. His marketing acumen, rooted in a background in professional sports, has catapulted Snowbasin to the pinnacle of the industry. The resort soared from No. 28 to No. 1 in SKI Magazine’s reader resort rankings and, before the 2024-25 ski season, was named the No. 1 resort in North America by Outside Magazine and USA Today. His leadership style marries operational insight with storytelling, fostering guest satisfaction and long-term loyalty.
Davy’s influence extends statewide, contributing to Utah’s tourism economy by attracting visitors and creating jobs. His commitment to excellence and service, paired with an authentic and approachable style, has cultivated a culture where no job is too small for any team member, himself included.
Davy’s work to secure Snowbasin as the official alpine venue for the 2034 Salt Lake City Winter Olympic Games highlights his strategic vision and dedication to elevating Utah on the global stage. His leadership spans beyond resort management: He serves on numerous boards and remains actively engaged in community and industry advocacy, reinforcing Utah’s position as a world-class destination.
