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IAAPA’s Karen Staley and Jakob Wahl assume new roles as Richard Jackson steps down

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The International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) has announced new roles for Karen Staley and Jakob Wahl following the departure of Vice President of IAAPA North American Operations, Richard M. Jackson.

Karen Staley, currently Senior Vice President of IAAPA EMEA (Europe, Middle East, and Africa) Operations, will become Senior Vice President of North American Operations, effective Sept. 30, 2017. Jakob Wahl, who recently rejoined the IAAPA EMEA office, will succeed Staley as Vice President of EMEA Operations.

“During his tenure, Richard had a significant impact on the growth of our member base and enhanced the association’s focus of providing outstanding service to our members throughout North America,” comments Paul Noland, President and CEO of IAAPA.

“He worked closely with our global headquarters team to connect attraction operators and industry suppliers with valuable resources, while creating and facilitating many meetings and networking events throughout the region.”

Staley’s new position will require her to relocate from the company’s regional office in Brussels to IAAPA’s global headquarters in Orlando. Once in post, she has been tasked with leading the ongoing expansion of North American member services and programmes.

“She has a proven record of successfully developing and maintaining key partnerships and alliances,” observes Noland. “Her strategic vision, including the execution of our annual Euro Attractions Show (EAS), has significantly enhanced IAAPA’s global presence and will be invaluable as we take our North American operations to the next level.”

Jakob Wahl will lead the Brussels office to support EMEA member services. He rejoined the IAAPA team after a stint as Director of Communications at Europa-Park. Both Staley and Wahl will report to IAAPA CEO, Doug Stagner.

“We are pleased to welcome Jakob back to IAAPA,” adds Noland. “His return will ensure a seamless transition so that our North American and European members are continuously provided with optimal levels of service and support.”

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Charles Read

Charles is managing director at blooloop. He attends numerous trade shows around the world and frequently speaks about trends and social media for the attractions industry at conferences. Outside of blooloop, his passions are diving, trees and cricket.

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