Crystal Mountain Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Crystal Mountain has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, and market development.

Driven by a commitment to exceptional guest experiences, Crystal Mountain leverages its four-season resort offerings to foster community and provide memorable adventures, solidifying its position as a premier Michigan destination.

Leadership Roles at Crystal Mountain

  • Chief Executive Officer - John Melcher
  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Dennis Rivard
  • Chief Operating Officer - Karyn Thorr
  • President, GA - Landon Sutterlin
  • John Melcher - Chief Executive Officer

    John Melcher, the Chief Executive Officer at Crystal Mountain, directs the overarching strategic vision and long-term growth initiatives for the 1,500-acre resort. Melcher's leadership focuses on enhancing the guest experience across all four seasons, ensuring the integration of diverse offerings from downhill skiing and championship golf to the award-winning Crystal Spa and Michigan Legacy Art Park. This role involves aligning departmental objectives with the company's family-owned heritage and its commitment to providing a premier Michigan destination. John Melcher drives the strategic planning that sustains the resort's unique blend of recreation, relaxation, and real estate opportunities, ensuring continued market leadership and operational excellence. The Chief Executive Officer's purview extends to fostering key partnerships and exploring new avenues for development that align with the resort's established legacy and future aspirations.

    Dennis Rivard - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Dennis Rivard, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Crystal Mountain, spearheads the executive leadership and strategic direction of the expansive four-season resort. Rivard's responsibilities encompass driving operational efficiency and fostering innovation across all resort amenities, including lodging, dining, winter sports, golf, and the acclaimed Crystal Spa. This leadership position involves ensuring the seamless integration of the resort's diverse offerings, from the alpine slide to the Michigan Legacy Art Park, maintaining its status as a premier destination. Dennis Rivard guides the strategic initiatives that enhance guest satisfaction and expand market reach, upholding the resort's reputation for quality and unique experiences. The President & Chief Executive Officer's focus remains on sustainable growth and the continued evolution of Crystal Mountain's offerings, ensuring its enduring appeal to visitors seeking recreation and relaxation in Michigan.

    Karyn Thorr - Chief Operating Officer

    Karyn Thorr, the Chief Operating Officer at Crystal Mountain, oversees the day-to-day operational execution and service delivery across the resort's extensive facilities. Thorr's role is critical in ensuring the seamless functioning of all guest-facing departments, including lodging, dining, ski operations, golf courses, and the Crystal Spa, maintaining the high standards expected of a premier four-season destination. This leadership involves optimizing resource allocation and enhancing operational workflows to maximize guest satisfaction and revenue generation. Karyn Thorr drives initiatives focused on service excellence and efficiency, ensuring that every aspect of the resort experience, from the alpine slide to the conference center, operates harmoniously. The Chief Operating Officer's strategic focus supports the company's mission by guaranteeing consistent quality and memorable experiences for all visitors to the Thompsonville property.

    Landon Sutterlin - President, GA

    Landon Sutterlin, the President, GA at Crystal Mountain, directs strategic growth and market expansion initiatives, focusing on key areas of business development and revenue enhancement. Sutterlin's leadership involves identifying and capitalizing on new opportunities that align with the resort's established reputation as a premier four-season destination in Michigan. This role requires a deep understanding of market dynamics and consumer trends to drive innovation across the resort's diverse offerings, from winter sports to the Michigan Legacy Art Park. Landon Sutterlin spearheads efforts to strengthen the resort's competitive position and enhance its appeal to a broad range of visitors. The President, GA's strategic oversight ensures that Crystal Mountain continues to evolve and thrive, maintaining its legacy of exceptional guest experiences and operational excellence within the hospitality sector.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Crystal Mountain Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Crystal Mountain?
    Crystal Mountain is led by John Melcher (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Dennis Rivard (President & Chief Executive Officer) and Karyn Thorr (Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of Crystal Mountain’s executive team?
    The executive team of Crystal Mountain includes leaders such as John Melcher (Chief Executive Officer), Dennis Rivard (President & Chief Executive Officer), Karyn Thorr (Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Crystal Mountain have?
    Crystal Mountain has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Crystal Mountain’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Crystal Mountain includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, President & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Operating Officer, President, GA.