From Roller Coasters to Canyon Rails

“My first job was working for Knott’s Berry Farm where I worked a variety of positions in human resources, health services, security and risk management, sales specialist, several management positions and was the operations manager,” he said. “It was a running joke that I worked for the same company but couldn’t hold a job.”                                      

Before stepping into the national park arena, Stellmack’s position with Knott’s Berry Farm evolved into director of sales and marketing for their theme park and three of their water parks. He then transitioned to California’s Great America.

“I also did a short stint at Chabot Space and Science Center in Oakland, where I ensured that Chabot was viewed as the center of choice for leisure time activities as well as the go-to place to learn about Earth and space,” he said.

Joining the family-owned and operated Delaware North was Stellmack’s first journey into a national park when he accepted the position of marketing and sales director at Yosemite National Park, where running into bears was not unusual.

“I would often run to the Vernal Fall Footbridge and take a service road back to my home,” said Stellmack. “One day while rounding a corner, I came across a bear who was too close for comfort. I was always told that if you yell at a bear they will run away. As much as it felt strange to do this, I did, and the bear looked at me and sauntered off. I affectionately named the bear Cinnamon, due to its color.”

Stellmack’s next move was to the Grand Canyon and from there he transitioned into marketing operations for all of Delaware North, including Kennedy Space Center, Yellowstone National Park, Niagara Falls, Geneva State Park, resorts in Cape Cod, Saratoga Springs and a lakeside golf resort in Iowa.

Now with Xanterra Travel Collection, Stellmack will be overseeing sales and marketing for their “legendary” destinations in the South region such as Grand Canyon South Rim, Tusayan properties and the Grand Canyon Railway and Hotel in Williams. First and foremost on his list, he hopes to build up their social media with fun and engaging content and the history and legacy of the company.  

“Next year is Xanterra’s 150th anniversary and also the 100th anniversary of Route 66. We intend to elevate existing experiences and create new ones for all to enjoy.”

“James brings deep National Park tourism expertise and a warm, friendly presence that resonates with guests, partners and our community,” said Grand Canyon Railway and Hotel Vice President and General Manager Jeff D’Arpa. “As regional director of sales and marketing for Grand Canyon Railway, he’s a perfect fit for Xanterra’s Arizona properties – helping showcase the Grand Canyon experience with integrity and heart.”

“I really love working for Xanterra and I have a great boss,” said Stellmack. “The local team I work with is hardworking, knowledgeable and fun, plus the corporate team provides great support and is equally enjoyable. Marketing the Grand Canyon, one of the seven wonders of the world, and the Grand Canyon Railway, an amazing railway experience, makes my job one of the best and the people make it even better.”

With his office based at the Grand Canyon Railway in Williams, Stellmack and his wife, Barbara, now reside in Flagstaff. They have two grown children. Hiking, disc golf, outdoor activities and just taking the dog for a walk top Stellmack’s list of recreational fun.

Xanterra Travel Collection is the largest U.S. travel company that operates lodges and concessions in U.S. National Parks.  They also own cruise lines and other travel businesses. The company’s origins link back to the legendary Fred Harvey who revolutionized Western hospitality.  More information can be found at www.xanterra.com.

Favorite Hobbies

I stay pretty busy with outdoor activities and attempting to learn to play my guitars.

My Superpower 

My superpower is finding a parking space. They just seem to open up for me.

Last Moment of Nostalgia

Thinking back on holidays and family times of the past always brings back fond memories of not only my own childhood, but holidays with my children as well.

Guilty Pleasure

The television show, “Survivor.” I’ve been a fan since season one. Watching the human interactions are intriguing and sometimes surprising.

If I Had a Million Dollars to Give Away

I would give it to a friend of mine who is a missionary and has spent many years in Ukraine. I believe he and his organization would be able to put it to good use. FBN

By V. Ronnie Tierney, FBN

Photo by V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography: Jim Stellmack brings extensive national parks marketing experience and a love for the outdoors to the Grand Canyon.