Six Flags Entertainment Corporation has appointed Richard 'Dick' Haddrill as the executive chairman of its board of directors, replacing Marilyn Spiegel.
The company's new board chair has been named after Jana Partners demanded last week that Six Flags replace Spiegel, who will continue to serve on the board as lead independent director.
Last year, Jana Partners acquired a 9 percent stake in Six Flags with a plan improve the struggling theme park operator's business.
The investment firm teamed up with NFL star Travis Kelce, who is now a brand ambassador for Six Flags.
Per a press release, Six Flags is taking decisive actions to improve its performance, including the appointment of John Reilly as CEO in December 2025.
“Dick is a proven leader with a strong track record of delivering outsized returns for shareholders,” said Spiegel.
“His strategic mindset, steady leadership, and decades of experience scaling and optimizing businesses will be invaluable as we continue to improve performance across the portfolio and enhance the guest experience.
"Dick’s appointment reflects the board’s commitment to thoughtful refreshment to effectively oversee management’s efforts to unlock the full value of Six Flags’ world-class portfolio.”
Richard 'Dick' Haddrill joins Six Flags board
Reilly said: “On behalf of the management team and associates, we welcome Dick to Six Flags.
“We look forward to working with him as we sharpen our focus on profitability and drive value creation for our guests and shareholders.”
Haddrill previously served as executive vice chairman of the board of Scientific Games (now Light & Wonder), and before that as CEO of Bally Technologies.
“Six Flags is an incredible business, and I believe in the steps John Reilly and the management team are taking to strengthen execution and realize the full potential of the irreplaceable Six Flags portfolio,” said Haddrill.
“I am excited to work closely with John, the rest of the Six Flags Board, and the management team to continue building on their progress.”
With Haddrill’s addition, the Six Flags board will include 11 members until Jennifer Mason stands down at the end of her term this year. The board will then be made up of 10 members.
Images courtesy of Six Flags
