Classic Vermont Ski Resort Names New General Manager

Brandon Swartz, an experienced ski industry leader, has been tapped to help lead Smugglers’ Notch, Vermont, as the resort’s new general manager.

Most recently, Swartz served as general manager of Attitash Mountain and Wildcat Ski Area in New Hampshire. While there, according to a release shared by Smuggs, “he earned a reputation as a hands-on leader focused on culture, operational excellence, and community engagement.”

At Smuggs, Swartz will be responsible for all aspects of resort operations and work alongside employees, homeowners, local businesses, and community partners, the release added.

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The announcement follows the news last February that Bear Den Partners had acquired an ownership stake in Smuggs. Alongside Smuggs, the independent group oversees Burke Mountain in Vermont, and Berkshire East and Catamount Resorts in Massachusetts.

Jon Schaefer, CEO of Bear Den Partners, said in the release that ahead of hiring Swartz, “We conducted a national search with several rounds of interviews for this position.”

“During that process, Brandon and I spent a lot of time together. I grew to appreciate him as a person, his background in the sport, and his dedication to his family,” Schaefer continued. “I feel confident that he is the right person with the right ethics to lead Smugglers’ Notch into the future.”

Swartz’s connection to the Vermont ski scene goes back to his childhood. At three, he was learning to ski at Mount Snow. Later, he became an instructor at the resort, before going on to graduate with a Recreation Resource and Ski Resort Management degree from Vermont State University Lyndon.

“Coming back to Vermont is incredibly meaningful to me,” said Swartz in the release. “This is where I learned the ski business and where I developed a deep appreciation for the role resorts play in their communities. My wife Nicole and I are excited for the move and to raise our sons on the mountain.”

Swartz noted that with the support of Bear Den Partners, his goal is to honor the Smuggs legacy and “help ensure that the resort continues to thrive for years to come.”

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