Merlin Entertainments, the Poole-based global entertainment leader, has appointed Linda Zou as Chief Strategy Officer.

She’ll report directly to CEO Scott O’Neill and work closely with the rest of the executive leadership team on designing and executing the company’s strategic vision as well as driving the continued growth of Merlin’s brand portfolio.

Its UK brands include Sealife, Madame Tussauds, Legoland, the London Eye and Blackpool Tower.

Linda joins Merlin from Boston Consulting Group where she was a Managing Director & Partner in London.

Scott O’Neill said: “Linda is the perfect executive to lead our organic growth plans and ambitious plans and trajectory.

“Linda is intellectually curious, a driving force of will and has proven to be an extraordinary teammate.

“She will be an instant value add to Merlin as she brings a wealth of experience and expertise in strategy, innovation, and transformation in the retail and travel sectors which translates directly into our business and allows her to hit the ground running.”

Linda, who joins Merlin next month, said: “This is a dynamic time for the leisure and entertainment industry.

“I am excited about the opportunities ahead for Merlin, as we bring more data-driven insight to enhance our guest experience, strengthen our core commercial capabilities across the portfolio, and expand our avenues for growth.”

• https://www.merlinentertainments.biz/

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