Six Flags Appoints New President and CEO
Six Flags is stepping into a new era as the company announces that industry veteran John Reilly will become its next President and Chief Executive Officer effective December 8, 2025. The appointment follows a lengthy succession search by the Six Flags Board as the company looks to strengthen performance across its newly combined Six Flags and Cedar Fair portfolio. With this move, Reilly will also take a seat on the Board, marking a significant leadership shift for the largest regional amusement park operator in North America.
Reilly steps into the role as Richard Zimmerman prepares to exit after guiding the company through major transitions. Zimmerman praised his successor on the way out, noting Reilly’s deep experience and passion for improving guest experiences. The Board echoed this confidence, describing Reilly as a leader capable of unlocking the full potential of the combined company at a time when several parks are primed for improvement.
That optimism stems from Reilly’s decades of operational leadership across major players in the themed entertainment world. His most recent work as CEO of Palace Entertainment U.S. and Group COO for Parques Reunidos showcased his ability to boost guest satisfaction while expanding margins across properties in the United States, Europe and Australia. Before that, he helped lead SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment through a period of renewed growth, serving both as interim CEO and COO. His track record of elevating performance and his steady operational style have made him a well known figure in the industry.
Reilly’s industry influence was further highlighted earlier this year when he was recognized as an Industry Legend at the 2024 Golden Ticket Awards presented by Amusement Today. The honor celebrated his longtime leadership and commitment to elevating park operations around the world, reinforcing why so many in the industry view him as a steady and transformative force.
Reilly says he is “ready to dive in”. He called the newly combined Six Flags and Cedar Fair family an unmatched collection of parks filled with opportunity and expressed excitement to work with teams across the chain to deliver long term growth and memorable guest experiences. The move signals a fresh chapter for the company as it works to blend two historic theme park giants into a unified vision for the future.
Reilly continued: “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.”
Behind the scenes, Six Flags remains focused on its broader mission of making people happy across its 26 amusement parks, 15 water parks and nine resort properties in the United States, Canada and Mexico. With world class coasters, beloved characters and an ever expanding slate of seasonal events, the company believes strong leadership will play a key role in shaping what comes next.
Coaster Nation will continue to follow updates as this transition unfolds. For more breaking news, updates and deep dives into the world of thrill rides, be sure to follow Coaster Nation on social media and subscribe for the latest coverage
