Six Flags Corp Names New Chief Operating Officer

Six Flags Entertainment has announced the appointment of Mark Pauls as the company’s new Chief Operating Officer, with the leadership change taking effect on July 15, 2026.

Pauls joins Six Flags following a lengthy career in the amusement park industry spanning nearly five decades. Most recently, he served as Senior Vice President of Operations at Herschend Family Entertainment, where he helped oversee the integration of Palace Entertainment following Herschend’s acquisition of the company in late 2025.

Before joining Herschend, Pauls spent time as Vice President of Operations for Palace Entertainment, managing operations across the company’s nationwide portfolio while leading initiatives focused on operational efficiency, cost reduction and overall business performance. Earlier in his career, he also held senior leadership positions with SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment and Busch Gardens, overseeing park operations with an emphasis on guest experience and operational excellence.

“Mark is a results-driven executive with deep experience in the theme park industry and a proven track record of instilling operational rigor, driving profitability and delivering exceptional guest experiences,” said Six Flags President and CEO John Reilly in a statement announcing the appointment.

According to the company, Pauls succeeds Tim Fisher, who will transition into the role of Special Advisor through December 15, 2026, to assist with the leadership transition and provide continuity following the integration of the former Cedar Fair and Six Flags organizations.

Reilly also thanked Fisher for his contributions, noting his role in supporting the merger integration and expressing confidence that his experience will help ensure a smooth transition over the coming months.

Pauls said he is looking forward to joining the company as Six Flags continues executing its long-term strategy.

“Six Flags is an incredible business with a strong foundation and world-class portfolio of parks,” Pauls said. “I am thrilled to be joining John and the amazing team he has assembled as they continue to advance their new strategy to unlock the Company’s full potential.”

The appointment comes as Six Flags continues refining its leadership team following last year’s merger of Cedar Fair and Six Flags.

Today, the company operates some of North America’s most recognizable amusement parks, including Cedar Point, Kings Island, Canada’s Wonderland, Knott’s Berry Farm, Six Flags Magic Mountain, Six Flags Great Adventure, Six Flags Over Texas, Carowinds and many others. In total, the company manages 21 amusement parks, 14 water parks and nine resort properties across the United States, Canada and Mexico.

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