Leading international leisure industry pioneer, Sim Leisure Group (SLG), has appointed Darrel Metzger to its board of directors. The appointment of Metzger follows several senior appointments within Sim Leisure Group last year, including Phil Whitaker as CEO, and the assignment of industry veteran, Steve Peet into the board.
SLG said in a statement that the appointment further solidifies its commitment to building a formidable team of professionals at management and board level.
“Metzger’s vast experience and extensive knowledge of the global leisure industry make him an invaluable addition to the team, perfectly positioned to drive the group’s vision and lead the company to new heights,” it said.
A prominent figure in the tourism, leisure, and lifestyle sector, Metzger brings with him a track record spanning over five decades. Notably, he served as the former Chairman and is the current board member of the International Association of Amusement Parks & Attractions (IAAPA).
Throughout his career, Metzger held senior leadership positions in renowned leisure destinations around the world, including Disney Resorts, USA; Tokyo Disney Resort, Japan; Ocean Park Resort, Hong Kong; Sentosa Island Resort, Singapore; and Legoland Resort, Malaysia.
Metzger’s career began with Disney’s USA Resorts, where he played a pivotal role as the Human Resources Director during the opening of Disney’s first International Resort in Tokyo.
Subsequently, he joined Ocean Park Resort, Hong Kong, where he successfully implemented a long-term strategic plan resulting in a US$100 million expansion, doubling attendance and profitability while establishing a strong regional presence.
Metzger’s exceptional leadership skills were further demonstrated during his tenure as the CEO of Sentosa Island Resort, Singapore. With the resort facing stagnant attendance and declining profits, he spearheaded a multi-billion-dollar development that transformed Sentosa into a premier destination, attracting nearly 19 million annual visitors.
Inspired by his guidance, Sentosa now boasts a Universal Studios Theme Park, 17 hotels, Singapore’s first Casino, and numerous other attractions including two golf courses, a Yacht Club, and the exclusive residential enclave of Sentosa Cove.
Dato’ Sim Choo Kheng, founder and executive chairman of SLG said, “I have always wanted to have an industry-centric board and with Darrel Metzger’s appointment to our Board of Directors this has now been realised.
“His exceptional industry knowledge internationally and locally, leadership acumen, and international experience will undoubtedly bolster our position as a global leader in the leisure industry, and boost our quest towards world domination. With his expertise, we are confident in our ability to push boundaries, explore new horizons, and achieve unparalleled success.”
Metzger said: “I am honoured to join the board of directors of Sim Leisure Group. This company has shown tremendous innovation, vision, and a commitment to delivering exceptional leisure experiences, a fitting reflection of Sim himself.
“I look forward to working closely with the board and management team to drive growth, expand the company’s footprint, and continue redefining the boundaries of leisure entertainment.”
SLG has garnered an impressive reputation for its expertise and innovation with a track record of creating 300 international theme park projects worldwide, including renowned attractions such as DreamWorks, the John Wick ride in MOTIONGATE™ Theme Park Dubai, and Sea World Abu Dhabi and just recently Six Flags in Saudi Arabia.
The group’s ESCAPE brand of nature-inspired and retro-eco theme parks showcases Sim Leisure Group’s expertise and forward-thinking approach, led by Sim, who was recently inducted into the list of the World’s Top 50 Theme Park Influencers by Blooloop, the world’s leading platform for visitor attraction professionals.
