Global attractions operator Merlin Entertainments has named Linda Zou as its new chief strategy officer.
Merlin’s new executive will start in her new position in February and will report directly to the company’s CEO Scott O’Neil. She will work closely with the rest of the leadership team in designing and implementing the company’s strategic vision.
“As Merlin transforms into a premium positioned, innovative and data-driven company focused on driving enterprise value, we will continue building capabilities to be world class in dynamic pricing, optimising trade, exploring the future of branded accommodation, maximising retail opportunities and investing in technology to drive efficiencies,” O’Neil said.
“Linda is the perfect executive to lead our organic growth plans and ambitious plans and trajectory. Linda is intellectually curious, a driving force of will and has proven to be an extraordinary teammate.”
He added, “She will be an instant value add to Merlin as she brings a wealth of experience and expertise in strategy, innovation, and transformation in the retail and travel sectors which translates directly into our business and allows her to hit the ground running.”
Zou comes to Merlin from Boston Consulting Group, where she served as a managing director and partner in London.
In her role at the company, she led the development and execution of business strategy, commercial transformations, proposition design, and AI and advanced analytics programmes for consumer companies in the UK, Europe, Asia, and Africa.
New role to lead Merlin growth plans
Before joining Boston Consulting Group, Zou worked in global health and established large-scale health programmes in southern Africa.
“This is a dynamic time for the leisure and entertainment industry. Customer sentiment and tourism patterns are evolving. New technologies bring new opportunities for innovative guest experiences. Advanced analytics tools can make it easier for frontline teams to respond effectively to the market,” said Zou.
“I am excited about the opportunities ahead for Merlin, as we bring more data-driven insight to enhance our guest experience, strengthen our core commercial capabilities across the portfolio, and expand our avenues for growth.”
Images courtesy of Merlin Entertainments
