Hospitality & Tourism

Karim set to lead financial, investment and M&A strategy as new CFO of Merlin Entertainments

Karim Hajjar, CFO of Merlin Entertainments.

By Daniel Face [email protected]

Published: January 19, 2024 | Updated: 19th January 2024

Poole-headquartered multinational Merlin Entertainments has welcomed Karim Hajjar as CFO.

Merlin Entertainments logoKarim will report to CEO Scott O’Neil and work closely with the executive leadership team to drive growth across Merlin’s international brand portfolio.

He brings more than 30 years’ financial experience to the role, including in the energy, resources and chemicals industries – most recently with Solvay, where he spearheaded record financial performance for the Belgian firm.

Karim has also held senior positions with Shell and Tarmac Group, before which he worked as a chartered accountant for Grant Thornton and became one of their youngest partners.

Karim HajjarHe said: “I’m thrilled to be joining the Merlin team at an exciting moment for the company as it leverages its strong foundations and realises its full value potential, creating more amazing experiences and memories for visitors across the world.

“I look forward to working with Scott and the executive team to deliver on the strategic direction, and to accelerate its growth, further extending Merlin’s global leadership in the sector.”

Karim takes over this February from Alistair Windybank, who announced his retirement in October 2023.

Alistair will stay on for a short time to ensure a seamless handover.

Scott O’NeilCEO Scott O’Neil added: “Karim is a deeply respected financial executive with a proven track-record of delivering strong and sustainable growth and innovation across complex multi-national businesses.

“His leadership will be pivotal to our continued global expansion and ambition of creating the greatest place in the world to work and play.

“An exceptional strategic and financial operator, we’re enthusiastic about the fresh energy and profound impact Karim will bring to our executive and broader team, as well as our investor relations.

“I’d like to thank Alistair for his outstanding contribution to Merlin over the last 15 years and wish him all the best for his well-earned retirement.”

To get the best of Dorset Biz News straight to your inbox every week, sign up for our newsletter!

Latest Posts

‘See you at the bar!’ say Chickpea trio as they snap up Shaftesbury pub – their first in Dorset

Bournemouth Pier operator cuts prices on key attractions for BCP residents with Pier Perks

‘Biggest year yet’ promised as popular music festival returns to Christchurch Quay next summer

‘Truly impressive talent’ on show as Izabela, 12, is crowned winner of RockReef’s Mascot Challenge

New jobs created as The Lord Wimborne in Poole opens its doors following £850k makeover

All Hospitality & Tourism Stories »

Latest Posts

Savvy Navvy signs distributor down under as ‘Google Maps for boats’ reaches Aussie & NZ shores

New initiative supporting Dorset innovators is hitting its STRIDE after successful launch event

Greendale Construction embarks on 34-week works at the historic Dorchester Corn Exchange

‘See you at the bar!’ say Chickpea trio as they snap up Shaftesbury pub – their first in Dorset

Final beam fitted as construction on Bournemouth and Poole College’s learning facilities chugs along

All Latest News »