Scott O'Neil to Leave Merlin Entertainments

(eap) British operator group Merlin Entertainments announced today that Scott O’Neil, currently CEO of the company, will step down from his position at the end of this year to pursue a new career challenge. Chief Operating Officer Fiona Eastwood will take over as interim CEO while the Board of Directors conduct an orderly process to identify a successor.

“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 endeavors,” comments Roland Hernandez, Chair of Merlin Entertainments, and continues: “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.”

Scott O’Neil says: “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.”

Eastwood closes: “I’m delighted the Board has asked me to become interim CEO. Merlin is a truly world class company with an exciting year ahead, including the opening of LEGOLAND Shanghai, our first LEGOLAND park in China, and Peppa Pig Theme Park in Dallas. Our business is led by an extraordinary talented, innovative and inspiring management team, and I look forward to working closely with them to execute our strategy and to continue to deliver exceptional experiences to our guests.” ■