IAAPA Has a NEW President and CEO

Theme and amusement parks are primarily for enjoyment, but they are still businesses, and businesses need leaders.

We’ve heard a lot of input about Disney from leaders like CEO Bob Chapek, and even former CEO Bob Iger. But, Disney isn’t the only one in the theme and amusement parks game! There’s actually a whole association for amusement parks and attractions, and they just decided on some new leadership.

The International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) has a new president and CEO — Jakob Wahl, according to a press release from the company. Wahl was the former executive vice president and Chief Operating Officer of the association.

Wahl will become president on January 1st, 2023 following the current president and CEO, Hal McEvoy, who is returning on April 1st of 2023.

In the new position, Wahl will lead the association’s 94-member team in Orlando, Brussels, Germany, Honk Kong, Mexico City, Mexico, and Shanghai, China. He will be the primary strategic advisor to the board of directors of the association for matter related to their mission, events, products, and services.

©IAAPA

“Jakob’s vision for IAAPA is focused on adapting the association for today’s fast-paced, change-driven world, and enhancing the value of IAAPA membership through our regional offices around the globe,” said Curt Caffey, chair of the CEO Search Committee, IAAPA treasurer, and president of ProParks Attractions Group. He also said that Jakob “Plans to accelerate the association’s delivery of digital products and services for IAAPA members.”

Wahl has been in leadership positions at IAAPA for 10 years, joining as a program manager in 2009.

If you’re interested in more about IAAPA, know that the associations Expo in Orlando is happening from November 14th-18th in Orlando, Florida. This is an event where you can check out all sorts of things from the amusement park industry, including new technology.