Sweden: Niclas Palmqvist New CEO of Kolmården

The Swedish Kolmården zoo recently announced that Niclas Palmqvist has been appointed to the animal park’s new CEO, effective from September 1^st this year. The 45 year-old joined Kolmården in 2012 – most recently, he was head of engineering and maintenance and for the past four years he has been the operating park manager in the summer season. Amongst other projects, he has been responsible for the construction of the “Wildfire” wooden coaster (Rocky Mountain Construction / Vekoma), which opened in 2016 (c.f. EAP, 5/2016).

“I was thrilled at the offer, and I really look forward to the job. The park has just opened and we’re focusing on getting ready for the summer season. Being able to develop the park with all its fantastic staff is going to be exciting, challenging and a lot of fun. I’m very happy at Kolmården,” said Niclas Palmqvist. Christer Fogelmarck, CEO of Parks and Resorts, is delighted about Palmqvist’s decision: “In Niclas, we’ll have a leader who truly understands the park and the guests. He has superior knowledge of the destination and is a highly appreciated leader with strong approval ratings inside the company and externally. I look forward to working with Niclas and to our continued growth journey,” he said. Until Niclas Palmqvist steps in as CEO of Kolmården, Fogelmarck will continue to serve as temporary CEO of the park. (eap)