Six Flags Entertainment Corporation is heading into the new year with a significant change in its leadership lineup.
The company announced today that Executive Chairman Selim Bassoul and Lead Independent Director Daniel J. Hanrahan will step down from the Board of Directors, effective 31 December 2025. Taking the helm as the new non-executive Chair of the Board will be Marilyn Spiegel, a seasoned veteran of the hospitality and gaming industry. Her appointment is effective 1 January 2026.
This move comes after a transformative period for the amusement park giant, which recently completed a comprehensive merger, expanding its portfolio and solidifying its position as the largest regional amusement park operator in North America. The departure of Bassoul and Hanrahan marks the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter for Six Flags.
A Period of Transformation
Under Bassoul’s leadership, Six Flags has navigated a period of significant change shaped predominantly by the merger and a renewed focus on the guest experience through technological innovation.
“Leading the Six Flags Board of Directors through a period of transformation has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career,” said Bassoul. “Together, we built a stronger, more innovative company – one that successfully completed the industry’s largest merger, expanded its growth opportunities, and refined the guest experience through technology and creativity. I am especially proud that Six Flags has been recognised as one of the best and brightest companies to work for nationwide – proof of our exceptional culture and the dedication of our people.”
Bassoul expressed his confidence in his successor, stating, “As I transition from the Board, I do so with great confidence in Marilyn Spiegel as she steps into the role of Chair. Marilyn’s experience and deep understanding of hospitality and guest experience make her exceptionally well-suited to guide Six Flags into its next phase of growth. I look forward to seeing her leadership and vision propel the Company to even greater success.”
Hanrahan echoed Bassoul’s sentiments: “It has been a privilege to serve on the boards of Cedar Fair and Six Flags for the past 12 years, and I am incredibly proud of our accomplishments over that time,” he said. “We have built one of the largest and most successful regional amusement park companies in the world, with a collection of unmatched entertainment properties. With a resilient business model and clear vision to optimise performance, I am confident Six Flags is well positioned to execute against its strategic priorities to deliver superior returns for its shareholders and unique experiences for its guests.”
What’s Next for Six Flags?
While Bassoul is stepping down from the Board, he won’t be completely severing ties with the company. He will serve as a consultant to facilitate the development and completion of the highly anticipated Six Flags Qiddiya City in Saudi Arabia, which is expected to open later this year.
“Looking ahead, I’m excited to continue supporting the Company through the completion of Six Flags Qiddiya City in Saudi Arabia, a landmark project that will showcase the next generation of entertainment experiences and global innovation,” Bassoul added. “It represents not only a bold step for Six Flags but also a vision of what the future of theme parks can be. I look forward to helping bring that vision to life and watching this remarkable company continue to inspire millions of guests worldwide.”
Spiegel, who has been on the Six Flags Board since 2023, has over 30 years of leadership experience in the gaming and hospitality industry. She has served as president of iconic Las Vegas resorts, including Wynn Las Vegas and several Harrah’s Entertainment properties. Her extensive background in guest experience and large-scale operations will be invaluable as Six Flags moves forward.
“On behalf of the entire Board and management team, I thank Selim and Dan for their dedication to the Company and their respective contributions to legacy Six Flags and legacy Cedar Fair,” said Spiegel. “Both Selim and Dan have provided invaluable leadership, expertise and guidance, and they were instrumental in executing last year’s merger. We wish them the best going forward.”
Looking to the future, Spiegel is focused on enhancing the guest experience and operational efficiency. “It is an honour to be elected non-executive Chair of the Board and to succeed Selim in this role,” she said. “Six Flags offers thrills and entertainment for the entire family that you cannot get anywhere else. Looking ahead, we are focused on delivering exceptional guest experiences and operating parks as efficiently as possible. Our process to identify the Company’s next CEO is underway, and we are excited for Six Flags to achieve its full potential in the years ahead.”
With a new Chair at the helm and the search for a new CEO underway, the industry will be watching closely to see what the future holds for Six Flags. One thing is for sure: with quarterly performance results and leadership changes continuing to hit the headlines, the thrill ride isn’t over yet.
