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Vulture Ranch is a hidden gem in the Sonoran Desert, lovingly transformed by retired real estate investor Mark Stevens.
He saw its rare beauty and unmatched location, then invested years and significant resources to bring it to life—reflecting his personal taste and deep appreciation for nature’s quiet elegance.
The result is a private sanctuary designed for tranquility and unforgettable experiences.
A small, exceptional team delivers outstanding concierge service, exceptional food and beverage, and trusted high-end vendor partnerships.
Mark’s mission: share this special place with the right people so every guest leaves with indelible memories of peace and beauty. Mission accomplished.
Ownership
Ranch Manager
I’m a visionary leader with a proven track record in transforming complex business landscapes into thriving enterprises. With extensive experience in executive roles, I specialize in pioneering innovative strategies, fostering high-performance teams, and delivering substantial growth and profitability. Throughout my career, I’ve led strategic direction and growth planning for diverse branches, including recent roles as President at National Pump Company and General Manager at Gorman Rupp Industries. My expertise lies in orchestrating successful market pivots, implementing advanced technologies, and driving operational efficiency. Notable accomplishments include tripling operating income within six months, increasing top-line sales by 50%, and developing high-tech product lines that significantly expanded market reach. At Hastings F&I Solutions, I managed multiple responsibilities, including strategic consulting, business planning, and marketing, while concurrently leading SelectCom Products to substantial growth through high-tech vendor integration and product innovation. I’m passionate about creating high-impact solutions and empowering teams to achieve their full potential. My approach combines strategic planning with hands-on execution, leveraging market insights and operational expertise to deliver tailored solutions that meet evolving customer needs.
Chef Derek Upton is an accomplished Executive chef and culinary innovator with over 15 years of experience delivering exceptional dining experiences. Known for his refined palate and creative approach, he has cooked for professional athletes, celebrities, and appeared on national television, including Netflix (2020) and Food Network’s Chopped (2021).
Chef Derek’s dedication to quality and hospitality has earned him recognition as one of Arizona’s top five private chefs for three consecutive years (Soeleish Magazine Phoenix) and, in 2024, the cover of Soeleish Magazine LA as the #1 Traveling Private Chef.
Passionate about creating memorable moments through food, Chef Derek excels at menu development, team leadership, and building warm, welcoming culinary spaces. He is always seeking new opportunities to bring his vision and expertise to high-end restaurants, country clubs, and exclusive dining programs.
"Here at the Ranch its about slowing down and creating memories, come sit at our table and create memories one plate at a time"