Theme park manager : Career development

Once in post, internal progression can be fast for talented recruits in large theme parks. Employees in smaller theme parks, however, may face a fairly flat management structure, in which case moving to a more senior level may call for a couple of sideways moves to broaden experience.

Larger parks often have a team of managers with responsibility for different areas, for example:

• human resources;
• accommodation and hotels;
• ride development;
• technical operations;
• retail.

Opportunities exist to specialise in such areas and then progress to general park management.

Some companies own several attractions and theme parks both in the UK and worldwide. Opportunities may exist for managers to re-locate and further their career development at another location within the organisation or to move between functions in group-owned attractions.

Promotion to middle and senior management is dependent upon your ability and, frequently, your geographical mobility.

There are some consultancy opportunities in areas such as ride development or certification.