Six Flags Entertainment Corporation has announced that John Reilly will assume the role of president and chief executive officer starting 8 December 2025.
Reilly will also join the Six Flags Board of Directors at that time. The appointment follows a thorough succession-planning process led by the Six Flags Board, with support from a leading global executive search firm.
He succeeds Richard A. Zimmerman, who, as previously announced on 6 August 2025, is stepping down as the company’s president and CEO. Zimmerman will also resign from the company’s board, effective 8 December 2025.
Reilly offers over thirty years of extensive experience in the amusement and recreation sector, with strong skills in operations management and strategic expansion.
John ReillyMost recently, he was the CEO of Palace Entertainment U.S. and Group COO at Parques Reunidos, where he played a key role in enhancing guest satisfaction and increasing profit margins across their venues in the US, Australia, and Europe.
Before joining Parques Reunidos, he was the interim CEO and COO of SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment, where he contributed to notable EBITDA growth and increased shareholder value.
An experienced leader
“After a thorough search process, we are thrilled to have appointed an accomplished and experienced leader with the right skillset to enable Six Flags to reach its full potential,” says Marilyn Spiegel, chair-elect of the Six Flags Board.
“John is joining at a critical moment for the Company, following the merger of Six Flags and Cedar Fair last year. With a fresh set of eyes, combined with significant experience optimizing theme park operations and performance, we believe John will harness the best of both legacy companies and will reinvigorate profitable growth at our underperforming parks.”
"I am honored to serve as Six Flags’ next president and chief executive officer and look forward to working with the board, leadership team, and talented associates to deliver results," says Reilly.
"The combination of Six Flags and Cedar Fair created an unrivaled collection of parks with immense opportunity, and I believe we can reach new heights and deliver significant near- and long-term growth. I am excited to deliver even greater experiences for our guests and value to our shareholders.”
Zimmerman adds: “It has been a privilege to lead Six Flags through critical and transformative periods, and I am confident the Company is poised for tremendous growth and success.
"John’s leadership track record and passion for creating memorable guest experiences make him the ideal choice to serve as this incredible Company’s next leader, and I look forward to supporting a smooth transition.”
Attendance at Six Flags theme parks increased this summer, driven by promotions, following weather-related difficulties earlier this year.
