IAAPA, the global association for the attractions industry, has announced the promotion of David Mandt. In a newly created role, he will serve as chief engagement officer (CENO) and executive vice president (EVP)
In his new role within IAAPA, David Mandt will be responsible for the engagement of members, as well as global marketing, education and communications. He will provide team liaison and supervision to the Governance and Strategic Planning committees, as well as supervising the board and committee manager. He moves to this position from his current role as senior vice president, marketing and communications.
“David is a dedicated and passionate leader. We knew he was the right person to support the association’s strategic plan while leading all governance and legal affairs along with the membership and marketing teams,” said Hal McEvoy, president and CEO, IAAPA. “David’s vast industry knowledge and experience, relationships with members around the world, and proven leadership skills will continue to serve and support our global members.”
38 years of experience
Mandt has a long and distinguished career in the attractions industry, beginning as a ticketing and parking host in 1981 for Paramount’s Carowinds theme park. This kicked off 25 years with Paramount Parks, where he rose to several senior leadership roles. Before joining IAAPA in 2006, Mandt was vice president, advertising and corporate communications at Paramount Parks.
In his previous role with IAPPA, Mandt has overseen the planning and marketing strategies for its worldwide Expos. He developed IAAPA’s 100th-anniversary celebration which was a year-long series of events. Mandt was also responsible for the strategy behind all communications at IAAPA, including media relations, as well as crisis and executive communications. His leadership skills helped drive the association through its three-year rebranding exercise.
In 2014, Mandt was named an honorary lifetime member of the American Coaster Enthusiasts and has given speeches and presentations at conferences and events all over the globe. He began this new role on May 6th, based at IAAPA’s headquarters in Orlando and reporting directly to McEvoy.
Over 8000 industry professionals from all over the world are preparing for IAAPA Expo Asia 2019, which takes place in Shanghai from the 11th – 14th June.
