Six Flags appoints new CEO

Editor's note: Don Helbig is a Register correspondent representing themeparksbydon.com. SANDUSKY — Six Flags Entertainment Corp., the largest regional amusement park operator in North America and parent company for Cedar Point, recently named industry veteran John Reilly as its new president and chief executive officer. The hire takes effect Dec. 8. On this date, he'll also join the company's board of directors. Reilly steps into the role as Richard Zimmerman officially steps down from both the CEO position and the board. The move finalizes a comprehensive succession planning process led by the Six Flags board and a global executive search firm. With more than 30 years of experience in the amusement and recreation industry, Reilly brings a proven track record of blending guest experience improvements with strong financial performance. Most recently, he served as CEO of Palace Entertainment U.S. and group chief operating officer at Parques Reunidos where he helped boost guest satisfaction while driving margin expansion across properties in the U.S., Australia and Europe. Prior to that, Reilly served as interim CEO and chief operating officer at SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, helping to deliver meaningful revenue and tax growth and increased shareholder value. With a reputation for operational excellence and strategic vision, Reilly's appointment signals Six Flags' continued focus on enhancing the guest experience while strengthening long-term profitability across its portfolio of parks.