New VP Signals Strategic Expansion at Resorts Companies
The Resorts Companies, Inc., owner and operator of Massanutten Resort and Wilderness Presidential Resort, today announced the appointment of Matt Gillen as Vice President of Corporate Strategy & Development.
In this role, Gillen will lead enterprise-wide strategic initiatives, focusing on developing mutually beneficial business relationships, advancing timeshare product strategy, and shaping long-term asset and development planning across the company’s resort, recreation, and real estate portfolios.
Gillen brings a strong background in hospitality and destination-based businesses, with executive leadership experience at world-class global brands including Universal, Disney, and Marriott Worldwide Vacations. His work has centered on strategic planning, product development, and aligning operations to deliver both strong guest experiences and business performance.
“Matt brings a rare combination of strategic thinking, planning discipline, and operational understanding,” said Steve Krohn, President and Chief Operating Officer. “His ability to connect long-term vision with execution will be instrumental as we continue to grow thoughtfully across our businesses.”
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Gillen joins The Resorts Companies at an important time, as the organization recently completed the acquisition of Keyholder Vacations, entered into active sales of its new 55+ residential segment, and is coming to market this fall with a significant expansion of its waterpark. As the company continues to build on its 40+ year foundation by pursuing new growth opportunities to further extend the impact of these successful new investments. Gillen’s role will bridge executive leadership and functional teams, ensuring alignment and execution of high-impact initiatives. Responsibilities include evaluating new strategies that support occupancy and destination demand, leading a comprehensive review of our timeshare products, and translating insights into actionable plans that drive long-term growth.
“Matt’s leadership will be central to how we evolve—not just in how we grow, but in how we think about growth,” said Matthias Smith, Executive Vice President. “From strategic partnerships and product strategy to asset planning, this role is about sharpening our direction and building a more resilient, forward-looking business.”
Gillen will also help strengthen collaboration across marketing, sales, finance, and operations, translating strategic priorities into measurable results.
“I’m excited to join The Resorts Companies at such a meaningful point in its evolution,” said Gillen. “There is a strong culture and a clear opportunity ahead. I look forward to applying my experience from Universal, Disney, and Marriott Vacations to help develop strategic relationships, evolve the product offering, and support long-term growth across the portfolio.”
Gillen will be based in Charlottesville, Virginia, working closely with leadership teams across Massanutten Resort, Wilderness Presidential Resort, and the company’s broader portfolio.
About The Resorts Companies, Inc.
The Resorts Companies, Inc. is a 100% employee-owned (ESOP) hospitality, timeshare, and real estate company and a recognized leader in the vacation ownership and travel industry. Founded in 1981, the company owns and operates Massanutten Resort and Wilderness Presidential Resort in Virginia, serving nearly 100,000 owner families and more than 1 million visitors each year through best-in-class, four-season vacation experiences.
In December 2025, the company expanded its hospitality platform with the acquisition of Keyholder Vacations, a Disney vacation rental and hospitality management company that strengthens the organization’s capabilities in destination management, vacation ownership services, and property management.
Built on a culture of service, innovation, and continuous reinvestment, The Resorts Companies delivers standout ski operations alongside nationally recognized waterpark, golf, adventure, lodging, and wellness experiences—continually evolving to exceed owner and guest expectations. Through its BluestonePeak community, the company is also extending the resort experience into long-term residential and mixed-use living for active 55+ residents. Supported by more than 2,000 team members, The Resorts Companies is committed to delivering exceptional experiences with care today while thoughtfully shaping the destinations of tomorrow.
