Merlin Entertainments CEO, Scott O’Neil, is leaving his role after just two years.
O’Neil joined the company in November 2022, but has informed the board that he has accepted another opportunity. He will stand down at the end of the year.
Merlin’s COO, Fiona Eastwood, will serve as interim CEO while the chairman and the board undertake a search to identify his successor.
O’Neil said: “It has been an honour to lead Merlin Entertainments as it lays the foundations for its next phase of growth. I look forward to working with Fiona as interim CEO to ensure a smooth transition. She is an outstanding leader who will take the business forward with drive, creativity and ambition.”
Roland Hernandez, chair of Merlin, said: “Scott has led Merlin Entertainments with passion and dedication, and I would like to thank him for his service to this company. We wish him well in all his future endeavours.
“We’re delighted Fiona Eastwood has agreed to become interim CEO, an appointment that reflects the strength of leadership talent that we have built at Merlin. Fiona has nearly a decade of experience at Merlin Entertainments, and has focused on delivering world-class attractions with the best IP in the world, and exceptional guest and team experiences.”
