SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment executive Josh Powers will join IAAPA next month as executive vice president and chief financial officer, with a brief to advise strategically on all financial issues impacting on the attractions body's global mission and service offerings.

In addition to leadership of the finance team, Powers will also head up the organisation’s IT team. He will report directly to Hal McEvoy, president and CEO of IAAPA, and will be based at IAAPA's global headquarters in Orlando, Florida.

Powers has a two-decade-long background in the attractions sector, having spent 12 years in various roles at the Busch Gardens Williamsburg theme park in Virginia, US, before relocating to Orlando, and spending the last 10 years serving in financial roles in the corporate offices of SeaWorld, most recently as corporate vice president of financial planning and analysis. Prior to that, he served as director of accounting and assistant controller.

The holder of a Bachelor of Science in Economics from Virginia Commonwealth University, Powers also has a Master of Business Administration from Webster University.

"As we continue to strengthen the support we offer our members around the world, we are excited to have Josh join the team," said Hal McEvoy. "He brings a solid background in finance and financial reporting along with strong industry knowledge and passion. His experience in hospitality and the theme park industry coupled with his leadership skills will be key assets as he serves and supports our global members."