Camelback Resort, a year-round recreational destination nestled in the Pocono Mountains managed by KSL Resorts, has named David
Makarsky its new managing director. In his new position, Makarsky takes over all management for the 560-acre resort – an expansive retreat offering a full range of indoor and outdoor activities and adventures from world class skiing to Pennsylvania’s largest outdoor waterpark.
According to Kit Pappas, vice president for KSL Resorts, Makarsky is a seasoned hospitality industry executive with a vast range of industry experience and is well equipped for his new role.
“David is a true leader with an inspired, enthusiastic management style and an entrepreneurial spirit. His vision and forward-thinking approach will serve him well at Camelback as we continue to provide unprecedented amenities and services to our guests,” Pappas said. “With deep knowledge in many facets of the hospitality industry, his many years of experience will also be invaluable to the smooth operations and growth of Camelback and its many onsite amenities.”
In his new position, Makarsky directs day-to-day operations of the resort’s many adventures – from skiing, snowboarding and snowtubing to zip lining, a mountain coaster to award-winning Aquatopia Indoor Waterpark and Pennsylvania’s largest outdoor waterpark, Camelbeach. He also oversees guest experiences for the 453 guest suites Camelback Lodge and over 15 dining outlets.
Prior to joining Camelback Resort, Makarsky was chief operating officer at Wright Investments, overseeing and driving the performance and portfolio of 19 full- and select-service hotels. Additionally, he has served as chief operating officer at multiple hotel companies, including Gold Key/PHR Hotels and Resorts and Crestline Hotels and Resorts as well as served as senior vice president of operations for B.F. Saul Company Hospitality Group. With a hospitality career spanning nearly 40 years, he began his career as general manager of The Pier House, a 300-seat restaurant in Cocoa Beach, Florida.
An active community leader, Makarsky has served on multiple boards throughout his career, including the Dulles Regional Chamber of Commerce, St. Mary of the Mills School, Virginia Beach Hotel Association, Virginia Tech’s Hospitality and Tourism Management Advisory Council, Tidewater Community College’s Hospitality Advisory Council and Catholic Charities of West Tennessee.
He holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Cornell University’s School of Hotel Administration.
