The International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) has elected nine new members to its Global Board of Directors, with terms set to begin in 2026.
The announcement was made this week following the board’s meeting in Barcelona, held in conjunction with IAAPA Expo Europe 2025.
The IAAPA Global Board of Directors works with the IAAPA team to set the association’s strategic direction, approve annual business plans, and oversee finances. Board members also act as advocates for IAAPA members and serve as global ambassadors for the attractions industry.
The new slate of board members was selected by the IAAPA Governance Committee from a pool of 47 applicants. The committee evaluated each candidate based on their industry experience, professional expertise, previous volunteer service with IAAPA, and the skills needed to support the association’s mission.
“The selection process was both thoughtful and thorough,” said IAAPA Governance Committee Chair, Ken Whiting. “This year’s board slate reflects a diverse cross-section of global leadership, experience, and passion for our industry. I am confident these leaders will guide IAAPA forward with meaningful impact and innovative vision.”
The newly elected board members for 2026 are:
Chris Herschend
A lifelong contributor to the industry, Chris Herschend is the chair of Herschend Family Entertainment (HFE), a leading family-owned themed attractions company. He has been instrumental in guiding his family business with a focus on strong governance and people-centred leadership. Herschend has a long history of volunteering with IAAPA, serving on numerous committees. His term will begin as Second Vice Chair in 2026, advancing to First Vice Chair in 2027, and he will chair the global board in 2028.
Andrew Bolstein
A 30-year veteran of The Walt Disney Company, Andrew Bolstein has held executive roles at resorts in Shanghai, Hong Kong, Tokyo, and Walt Disney World. This election represents a one-year extension of his current role as chair of the IAAPA APAC regional advisory board, where his operational expertise and strategic insights will continue to guide the region.
Luis Felipe Arteaga
As CEO of Happyland Perú, Luis Felipe Arteaga oversees 20 family entertainment centres (FECs) and has driven the company’s expansion across Latin America. An active IAAPA volunteer and speaker, he brings a strong regional voice and proven experience in growth and operational efficiency to the board.
Amber Christopher
With over 20 years of leadership experience in attractions, museums, and zoos, Amber Christopher is recognised for driving revenue growth and guest engagement. Before her current role, she served as COO of the Denver Zoo. Her diverse background in strategic planning and operations will bring a dynamic perspective to the board. Amber is currently the general manager for Harley-Davidson Museum and Milwaukee Experiences.
Matt Eckert
Matt Eckert has led the family-owned Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari to over one million annual guests and is now spearheading its expansion into lodging. A Certified Public Accountant, Eckert offers extensive financial expertise and has been an active IAAPA volunteer for over 25 years.
Jeremy Hoyum
An owner and operator of two FECs, Jeremy Hoyum has extensive experience in attractions franchise leadership. He previously led a team at Jake’s Unlimited to win the IAAPA Top FEC of the World award and has been a frequent speaker at IAAPA events, specialising in strategic growth and team development.
Thomas Mack
As a managing partner of Germany’s renowned Europa-Park and the Rulantica water world, Thomas Mack oversees hotels, F&B, and operations. Known for innovative concepts like the immersive dining experience Eatrenalin, he brings a unique blend of tradition and innovation to the board.
Michael Collins
A fourth-generation attractions professional, Michael Collins is an economist with over 25 years of experience consulting for theme parks, attractions, and entertainment venues worldwide. Currently a senior partner with Leisure Development Partners LLP, he brings financial expertise to the board.
Jane Cooper
A highly respected industry veteran, Jane Cooper previously served as President and COO of Herschend Family Entertainment and President and CEO of Paramount Parks. Having chaired the IAAPA Global Board in 2005, her decades of leadership and operational expertise will provide invaluable guidance to the association.
