The Themed Entertainment Association (TEA), a non-profit representing compelling places and experiences worldwide, has announced that Matt Barton is its president-elect.
Barton is currently the vice president of the International Board and a member of the TEA Executive Committee. His new title takes effect immediately.
The International Board voted unanimously in favour of Barton’s appointment during their September Special Board Meeting.
Lindsey K Nelson, CAE, executive director of TEA, says: “We are thrilled to see Matt step into the role of president-elect on the International Board. Having served both as president of the Europe & Middle East Division and, most recently, on the International Board, Matt understands TEA both internally and externally.
“This will serve him very well as he steps in to lead the global organisation in the coming years. Not to mention, it is exciting to see a future TEA president hail once again from our Europe & Middle East Division.”
First-hand experience
Barton will continue to work beside and in collaboration with current president Melissa (Ruminot) Oviedo for the next 15 months, until he takes over as president on 1 January 2025.
“I have had the privilege of actively engaging with TEA’s objectives and witnessing the organisation’s impact first-hand,” he comments. “The past few years have seen great challenges and significant change at TEA. Being in a leadership role during these times has been both testing and rewarding, I’m excited to continue working with our dedicated team in this new position.”
Barton is the chairperson of 7thSense, a privately held creative software and technology firm. 7thSense was founded in 2004 and now has locations in Sussex and London in the United Kingdom, as well as Orlando and Burbank in North America. The firm is a technological pioneer that specialises in media serving, pixel processing and show control by delivering a suite of innovative solutions that empower storytellers around the world to fulfil their vision.
Oviedo says: “Matt is well-versed in the issues and opportunities that face the themed entertainment industry worldwide due to the day-to-day work he’s involved in with his global organization. He continuously demonstrates great leadership in his various roles and has a wealth of knowledge that will serve TEA well. I value his perspective on the industry and his passion for our members, and I look forward to closely working with him over the next 15 months.”
“Throughout my tenure in TEA leadership, I have witnessed the dedication and passion of our members, and I am inspired by their unwavering commitment to excellence,” adds Barton. “I stand ready to serve in the position of president-elect and look forward to serving in the future as president.”
Barton will see TEA members in Vienna while visiting IAAPA Expo Europe this week.
The Themed Entertainment Association (TEA) is at booth A-225 at IAAPA Expo Europe 2023. The Association is also running an education session, networking, and member tours during the event.
