James C. O'Donnell

James O’Donnell is a Travel & Leisure Industry Professional, previously who has recently begun the next phase of his career - as faculty at a number of institutions, primarily focused on the outdoor recreation industry.

James currently teaches at the University of Denver in the Daniels College of Business, where he focuses on outdoor programs as well as special engagements within the ski industry.  He also teaches at Metropolitan State University at the School of Hospitality, where he focuses on newly developed Resort Operations course.

Prior to beginning the teaching phase of his career, James held various executive leadership positions at Vail Resorts, Inc. - leading the Mountain Division as President of the Company, and prior to that as Senior Executive Vice President  leading the retail/rental, hospitality and real estate divisions. In those roles, James developed skills in Mergers and Acquisitions, Food & Beverage Management, Mountain Operations, Hospitality Operations, Real Estate Development, Commercial Leasing and other aspects of a complex resort operating business.

James began his career in public accounting in Miami before relocating to Denver, Colorado in the Summer of 2000.

James holds an MBA and BBA from the University of Miami in Florida. He is a CPA,  and serves on the boards of the National Forest Foundation, Women's Bean Project, and resides in Denver with his family.