Chief Executive of leading leisure business consultancy, Petersham Group, Keith is widely known for his experience and knowledge of project development and operational management across the Experience Economy and for the integration of leisure and entertainment components into complex master plans. A graduate in Biology and Ecology, aquariums and wildlife attractions are a particular passion!
He managed a series of SeaLife Centre aquariums around the UK and then in Continental Europe in the 1980s and ‘90s, before steering the roll-out of Sea Life and other visitor attractions as Development Director for Vardon Attractions (now Merlin Entertainments).
Going on to join London-based consultancy, Grant Leisure Group in 1998 as Projects Director, he worked internationally on projects as diverse as International Expos, Theme Parks and Zoos and was instrumental in their acquisition of Real Live Leisure in 2001, subsequently overseeing the management and further development of their properties, including the Lakes Aquarium and the Bournemouth Oceanarium (now owned by Parques Reunidos).
In 2003, he co-founded Petersham Group, where he and his colleagues have completed consulting projects across the world for clients, with assignments including feasibility studies and business planning, concept development, operational management, fundraising, strategic plans and restructuring.
Keith is also Managing Director of reefLIVE Ltd. established to design and bring to market an aquarium concept designed for a 21st Century audience. Their first project, in Belfast, recently secured planning permission and is anticipated on site next year and a second is planned for Swansea in South Wales.
Keith is regularly asked to speak at international leisure events and is a visiting lecturer at the University of Exeter Business School.