Merlin Entertainments has appointed Spencer Holt as its chief experience and people officer. He will support 30,000 global employees and 50 million annual visitors.
Holt is joining Merlin’s executive team at the beginning of August to lead the employee experience and visitor journey across the company’s 140 destinations in 24 countries.
“People are at the heart of what makes Merlin so special. Unlocking the connection between guests and each Merlin employee is a chance of a lifetime,” Holt said.
“As we build a culture of innovation, purpose, development, and fun we will create more memories, smiles, and laughter for every guest and each Merlin team member.
“Ultimately my role alongside the 30,000 Merlin teammates is to help create the best place in the world to work and visit.”
Per a press release from Merlin, Holt is an award-winning educator, speaker, podcast host and executive coach. He brings to Merlin more than 20 years’ experience in the pharmaceutical, finance, franchising, and sales industries.
Leading Merlin’s 30,000 employees
After 18 years at AstraZeneca, which has 70,000 employees across 62 countries, Holt co-founded and is the current chief learning officer at the Global Leader Group, a business and people consultancy group.
“As Merlin Entertainments continues its growth trajectory to make more memories, bring more happiness and spread more joy to more people in more places than anyone else in the world, we are increasingly committed to adding resources to the most critical parts of our business: our guest experience, our distinct culture and our 30,000+ amazing teammates around the world,” said Scott O’Neil, Merlin CEO.
“As we grow our number of attractions, the opportunity will need an increasing emphasis on recruiting, training, developing, and growing this incredible pipeline of talent to become the Merlin leaders of tomorrow.
“There is no bigger opportunity, nor anything more important than creating the greatest place to work in the world for those closest to our guests and realizing the direct impact it will have on our guest experience.”
Last month, Merlin appointed Sarah Venning as its chief digital and data officer. She will lead the company’s digital transformation and create immersive and personalised experiences for visitors.
