When Rhea Brough walked into Jedediah’s for her first Sunday morning shift back in January 2003, she had no idea she was stepping into the start of a decades-long journey. She began as a server, later moved into the bakery, and quickly learned two things that would define her career: the power of hard work and the impact of being recognized for it. From the beginning, she saw how meaningful it was to value both effort and people, and that perspective became the foundation of Jedediah’s culture.
From those early days, Rhea helped shape the guest-focused, community-centered approach that still guides Jedediah’s today. What started as a weekend job slowly grew into a calling. By 2006, she was promoted to On-Site Manager at Jackson Hole Airport (JAC), where she would go on to lead operations for 14 years. Through terminal expansions, contract renewals, and record-setting travel seasons, Rhea built deep expertise in airport concessions, spanning TSA coordination and vendor compliance, workforce management, and service standards unique to a mountain resort airport.
Her hands-on leadership helped define Jedediah’s operational identity: spotless spaces, consistent quality, and the famous “10-Minute Rule,” which ensures guests receive fast, attentive service even during peak travel time.
A few years ago, after working alongside founder Mike for nearly two decades, Rhea stepped into a new role.
“I had been working with Jed’s and working with Mike for 18 years when I decided to take over the role as majority owner, and I was excited to continue the legacy that he had started.” — Rhea
In 2022, Rhea officially became the majority owner and Chief Executive Officer of Jedediah’s Corporation. Today, she oversees strategy, finance, and operational standards across both Jackson Hole (JAC) and Aspen (ASE) airports. Despite the scope of her role, she remains deeply involved in JAC concessions, maintaining the same hands-on presence and attention to detail she’s known for.
Rhea also leads Jedediah’s Event Catering Division and guides company-wide marketing, vendor relationships, and new business development. Outside of the business, she remains engaged with community organizations, including the Jackson Hole Chamber of Commerce and Womentum.
Throughout her leadership, one priority remains unchanged: investing in people. Jedediah’s has always believed that a business thrives when its team feels supported, respected, and encouraged to grow. Employees are empowered to share ideas, take on new roles, and build long-term careers. With Jackson’s high cost of living, the company works hard to provide stable income and a sense of belonging, which are values that help keep the team strong and the service exceptional.
Rhea’s story is a testament to what Jedediah’s stands for: opportunity, local leadership, and a commitment to the community. Her journey from server to CEO is living proof of the company’s culture in action. And under her leadership, that culture is thriving.
