Merlin Entertainments, a world leader in branded entertainment destinations with over 140 attractions globally, today announced the appointment of Karim Hajjar as Chief Financial Officer, effective 15th February 2024.
CEO Scott O’Neil and will work closely with the rest of the Executive leadership team to continue delivering strong financial performance and accelerate growth across Merlin’s international brand portfolio. He succeeds Alistair Windybank, who has served as Merlin’s CFO since July 2020, following the announcement in October 2023 of his planned retirement.
Hajjar brings more than 30 years of financial experience at international companies across the energy, resources, and chemicals industries.
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. He brings a wealth of expertise from his impressive career working with international companies during transformative periods. 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 are enthusiastic about the fresh energy and profound impact Karim will bring to our Executive and broader team, as well as our investor relations. I would 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.
Scott O’Neil, CEO of Merlin Entertainments
As Chief Financial Officer, Karim will lead Merlin’s financial planning, investment strategies, and financial management of all 140 global attractions including new Resorts, M&A opportunities and shareholder management.
I am 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 Hajjar, Chief Financial Officer at Merlin Entertainments
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