Six Flags Entertainment Corporation has announced the appointment of Mark Pauls as its new Chief Operating Officer, effective from 15 July 2026.
Pauls brings nearly 50 years of entertainment industry experience to North America’s largest regional amusement park operator. He succeeds Tim Fisher, who will step down from the role but remain with the business as a Special Advisor until 15 December 2026 to ensure a seamless transition.
Most recently, Pauls served as Senior Vice President of Operations at Herschend Family Entertainment, where he oversaw regional park operations, engineering, maintenance, workforce management and entertainment events. During his tenure, he played a pivotal role in the integration of Palace Entertainment following its acquisition by Herschend in December 2025. Prior to that acquisition, Pauls was Vice President of Operations at Palace, leading cost reduction and operational efficiency initiatives across the firm's nationwide portfolio.
His extensive career also includes senior leadership roles at SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, where he served as President, managing operations for approximately four million annual guests and a 6,000-strong workforce. He also previously held the position of Vice President of Operations for Busch Gardens’ locations in Tampa and Williamsburg.
John Reilly, President and CEO of Six Flags, expressed his enthusiasm for the new appointment, stating that Pauls is a results-driven executive with a proven track record of instilling operational rigour, driving profitability and delivering exceptional guest experiences.
"He understands that strong operational execution not only enhances business performance, but also creates a better experience for our guests through improved reliability, service and overall park quality," Reilly said. "We are confident he is the right leader to help us bolster our operating model and build a more resilient company with a stronger financial position to drive value creation for shareholders."
Commenting on his new role, Pauls said: "Six Flags is an incredible business with a strong foundation and world-class portfolio of parks. 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."
Reilly also extended his gratitude to outgoing COO Tim Fisher for his years of service, particularly his support during the integration with Cedar Fair, noting that his institutional knowledge would be invaluable during the transition period.
Six Flags Entertainment Corporation operates a significant portfolio across the attractions sector, encompassing 21 amusement parks, 14 water parks and nine resort properties across 13 US states, Canada and Mexico, alongside managing an amusement park in Saudi Arabia.
