Longtime Instructor Troy Nedved Named New President and COO of Big Sky Resort

After nearly three decades leading Big Sky Resort, President and Chief Operating Officer Taylor Middleton will step down from day-to-day responsibilities on Oct. 1, 2024. Current Big Sky Resort General Manager Troy Nedved will succeed him, assuming both president and COO positions. Middleton will continue to serve the company in a new strategic and advisory role.

Boyne Resorts President and CEO Stephen Kircher announced the transitions, applauding the long tenure and broad experience of both leaders, who each began their careers with Big Sky Resort as seasonal employees. Middleton’s first job with Big Sky Resort was 43 years ago as a Huntley Lodge desk clerk; Nedved, a National Powder 8 ski champion, started as a ski instructor in 1995.

“As I reflect on Taylor’s remarkable career, his wise, long-term vision has played a pivotal role in Big Sky Resort’s trajectory,” said Kircher. “His leadership has consistently focused on the betterment of the resort and the surrounding community, leaving an indelible mark on the region. Taylor has led with enthusiasm for the mission and love for what Big Sky is and what it can and will be.”

Kircher said he expects Nedved to continue and expand Middleton’s legacy. “We have consistently seen Troy’s adeptness at building and retaining teams, as well as his skills as a strategic and organizational thinker. I know his deep experience in guest service and operations and his genuine passion for mountain sports and the Big Sky community will serve him well as the resort’s new president.”

PSIA-AASI sat down with Nedved to discuss how his teaching experience will inform his new role as president and COO.

Q: Please describe your new role as president and COO of the Big Sky Resort and some of the daily and seasonal duties it will include?

A: My role encompasses high-level oversight of our overall business operations and the delivery of our ambitious vision. Beyond the operational focus I had as general manager, this position involves additional corporate, partner, and community collaboration. My daily and seasonal duties will include strategic planning, ensuring operational excellence across all departments, and fostering relationships with key stakeholders to drive the resort’s continued growth and success.

Q: You’ve been with Big Sky since 1995, and a lot has changed in that time. What are some of the highlights, and how do you want to continue to contribute to the heritage and culture?

A: Having been with Big Sky since 1995, I’ve witnessed tremendous changes and growth. One of the highlights has been our consistent pursuit of bold, transformational visions over the past 50 years. As we continue to evolve, I’m committed to maintaining a strong connection to our community and our rich history. My goal is to contribute to Big Sky’s history and culture by balancing our ambitious plans with a deep respect for the traditions and values that have shaped this resort.

Q: What are some of the key skills you’ve developed as an instructor that you can apply to these new roles?

A: I’ve developed the ability to inspire and communicate effectively in various styles, allowing me to connect with a broader demographic. Additionally, the instructor culture has instilled a commitment to continuous personal growth, which I’ve integrated into our resort’s leadership philosophy.

Q: How do you see your teaching skills informing your professional life when you aren’t on snow?

A: As teachers, coaches, and parents, we cultivate passions and connections that enhance almost every aspect of life. The ability to effectively communicate, motivate, and adapt to different learning styles are invaluable skills that translate well into leadership and management roles.

Q: How did teaching skiing inform how you see the guest experience when you’re out on the hill?

A: I’ve learned that our role as instructors extends far beyond teaching technical skills; we become guides and mentors, sharing life-changing experiences with our guests. This perspective is invaluable in our planning and investment decisions, as it allows us to anticipate and cater to our guests’ needs and desires, creating memorable experiences that keep them coming back to Big Sky Resort.

Caption: New Big Sky Resort President and COO Troy Nedved (left), with former President and COO Taylor Middleton. PC: Big Sky Resort.