CAVU Designwerks, Inc. (CAVU), leading provider of world-class Media Based Attractions is pleased to announce the appointment of Michael Turner as Executive Vice President, Global Business Development.
Turner (left) has more than 34 years of innovating in the entertainment and attractions industry and has experience working with a variety of CAVU market segments. “We are thrilled to have Michael join our team and lead our global business” said Peter Schnabel, Founder and CEO of CAVU. “Michael has extensive knowledge of the international attraction business and has a proven track record in building strong relationships in all markets.”
“I was attracted to CAVU because of Peter’s forte in innovating by applying unique technologies to rides. There is a tremendous opportunity for growth in this segment. I look forward to leading the global expansion of CAVU and bringing the team’s innovations to parks and attractions around the world.” said Turner.
Turner will oversee all aspects of the company’s sales and marketing operations worldwide. His responsibilities will include working to ensure implementation of corporate strategy, extending current market partnerships, and defining new markets to enter. He spent the last 7 years at Neptune-Benson, the industry leader for aquatic filtration and disinfection for recreational water, where he built an international presence to make their Defender filtration system the standard for high-quality parks all over the world. Before that, he was at Gateway Ticketing Systems for over 18 years; the world leader in revenue management systems, where he worked on projects extending over 6 continents. He started his career as a founder in a startup company named Lasergate, which invented the first barcoded tickets for the amusement industry and he was instrumental in the company’s initial public offering. Turner’s background and experience in both sales and marketing will provide a solid foundation to build CAVU’s corporate strategic initiatives.
Turner also volunteers his time with the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) as the former Manufacturers and Suppliers Committee Chairman, formerly on the Board of Directors, and currently the Chairman of the Membership Committee. He lives in Florida with his wife Franceen Gonzales, another industry executive. They are passionate supporters of the industry and enjoy being able to work and travel together when possible.
