IAAPA, the global association for the attractions industry, has announced the promotion of Michael Shelton to the role of chief operating officer and executive vice president, effective from June 30.
IAAPA said this leadership transition reflects the organisation’s ongoing commitment to developing its people and evolving its structure to meet the needs of a dynamic, global industry.
In his new role, Mr Shelton will continue to report to Jakob Wahl, IAAPA president and chief executive, and will oversee regional vice presidents, the safety & security leadership, and global professional development.
Mr Shelton has more than 25 years of experience in the attractions and recreation industry. Since joining IAAPA in 2018, he has held increasingly senior positions, most recently serving as vice president and executive director of IAAPA North America.
In that role, he led IAAPA’s largest region, supporting over 4,500 member organisations and overseeing IAAPA Expo – one of the largest trade shows in the United States – drawing more than 40,000 attendees annually.
Earlier in his IAAPA tenure, Mr Shelton served as director of education, safety, and membership, where he advanced global safety initiatives, led strategic education efforts, and drove record-breaking membership growth.
