SAM Magazine—Durango, Colo., April 13, 2026—A new leadership structure at Purgatory Resort includes general manager Dave Rathbun moving into the role of chief executive officer of Purgatory Resort Holdings, the company overseeing the resort’s affiliated businesses, owned by Mountain Capital Partners. In addition, Josh Benson will become senior director of resort operations, and Michael Rosenfeld will be senior director of village operations.

In his new role, Rathbun will focus on the execution of key capital projects, including installation of the new Gelande lift and snowmaking upgrades along Divinity Trail, while advancing strategic planning, leadership development, and performance across Purgatory’s portfolio of companies. 

“As Purgatory continues to grow, it has become clear that we need to spend more time looking ahead, not just at what’s right in front of us,” said Rathbun. “This shift gives me the ability to focus on the bigger-picture work that will help guide the resort’s next phase of growth and development.”

Benson will oversee mountain operations, guest services, food and beverage, and administrative functions. He was the base area manager at nearby Hesperus Ski Area for the 2017-18 season, according to his LinkedIn. Rathbun said in a blog post that Benson was in Purgatory guest services the last two years and has “been the engine behind our retail and rental shop improvements and streamlining the guest experience across the board.”

“Josh has been an integral part of our team and our culture,” Rathbun added. “His understanding of our guests and staff makes him exceptionally well-suited to lead the resort’s day-to-day operations.”

“I’m honored to take on this expanded role and continue working alongside such a dedicated team,” said Benson. “Purgatory is a special place, and I look forward to building on the strong foundation we have in place.”

Rosenfeld was most recently the Purgatory director of hospitality and executive director of the Durango Mountain Master Association—Purgatory’s homeowners association—since 2021. He previously held leadership roles in lodging and owner services at Telluride Ski and Golf and Copper Mountain, Colo. In his new role, he will oversee community services, homeowner association management, lodging, maintenance and engineering, as well as real estate operations and development.