Featured Image: Merlin Entertainments
Merlin Entertainments, which operates theme parks and tourist attractions, has revealed that its chief executive Scott O’Neil (pictured) will step down at the end of 2024, as he has accepted another opportunity.
Current chief operating officer Fiona Eastwood will serve as interim CEO while the chairman and board begin the process of identifying a successor.
The Athletic has reported that O’Neil is set to replace LIV Golf CEO Greg Norman, who will take on another role. Norman was a major factor in the launch of the breakaway golf series.
During his tenure with Merlin Entertainments, O’Neil oversaw achievements such as the recent announcement of the business’s partnership with popular video game Minecraft. The result will be permanent, physical experiences at locations in the UK and US.
“Scott has led Merlin Entertainments with passion and dedication, and I would like to thank him for his service to this company. We wish him well in all his future endeavours. Merlin has a proven track record of working with leading IP and brands across its estate, establishing successful partnerships to bring these to life in key locations across the world,” said Roland Hernandez, chair of Merlin Entertainments.
“Our investment across both our existing estate and exciting new openings, from our Peppa Pig theme parks to exhilarating new rollercoasters like Hyperia at Thorpe Park, means we are ideally placed to delight guests from toddlers to thrill-seekers. We’re delighted Fiona Eastwood has agreed to become interim CEO, an appointment that reflects the strength of leadership talent that we have built at Merlin.
“Fiona has nearly a decade of experience at Merlin Entertainments, and has focused on delivering world-class attractions with the best IP in the world, and exceptional guest and team experiences. She has built a reputation throughout the live attractions and theme parks industry as a world-class leader. Her prior role as COO of the company puts her in an ideal position to lead this transition and build upon Merlin’s mission to be the greatest place to work and play.”
O’Neil added: “It has been an honour to lead Merlin Entertainments as it lays the foundations for its next phase of growth. I look forward to working with Fiona as interim CEO to ensure a smooth transition. She is an outstanding leader who will take the business forward with drive, creativity and ambition.”
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