MERLIN ENTERTAINMENTS ANNOUNCE NEW CHIEF EXECUTIVE

Earlier today (Monday 17th February) Merlin Entertainments shared the following announcement on social media:

We are thrilled to share that Fiona Eastwood has today been announced as Chief Executive Officer of Merlin Entertainments, with immediate effect. This exciting appointment will support the implementation of Merlin’s transformational strategy, and to ensure that we can continue to grow at scale and deliver a sustainable, thriving future.

Fiona said “It’s an honour to be chosen to lead Merlin. It is a truly world class company, with remarkable global reach and impact. Over the past decade, I have seen first hand what the business is capable of. My task, as CEO, is to lead Merlin to new heights, with a focus on performance, creativity, operational excellence and guest experience. Together, we will drive growth at scale and help Merlin reach its full potential.”

Fiona was initially appointed to the role of CEO on an interim basis at the end of November 2024, following Scott O’Neil’s decision to leave Merlin Entertainments after two years as CEO. 

With nearly a decade of experience within Merlin Entertainments, Fiona most recently acted as Chief Operating Officer with responsibility for Gateway Attractions, including Madame Tussauds, the Eye Brand and SEA LIFE, along with Merlin's Resort Theme Parks. She joined the business in 2015 as Global Marketing Director for Gateway Attractions, responsible for driving strategy and marketing across an expanding portfolio of brands. 

Fiona’s appointment as CEO marks the start of a transformational era for Merlin Entertainments, with landmark new openings still to come later in the year, including the first standalone Peppa Pig Theme Park in Dallas Fort Worth, and the first LEGOLAND Resort in China, LEGOLAND Shanghai.