IAAPA Appoints Todd Andrus as Vice President and Executive Director of North America
Seasoned attractions and hospitality marketing leader to oversee regional strategy and member engagement
IAAPA, the global association for the attractions industry, is pleased to announce the appointment of Todd Andrus as Vice President and Executive Director, North America. With more than 26 years of experience in hospitality, attractions, and marketing, Todd brings deep industry expertise and a customer-focused approach that will strengthen IAAPA’s commitment to delivering exceptional value to its members across the region.
Todd began his career with Busch Entertainment Corporation/United Parks, where he spent more than a decade in sales, building foundational industry knowledge and relationships that would guide his career.In his most recent role as Corporate Senior Director at Premier Parks, Todd led marketing strategy and strategic partnerships for 14 parks and attractions throughout the United States and Canada. His leadership helped drive cohesive brand development, operational alignment, and impactful marketing campaigns across a diverse portfolio of properties.
Prior to his tenure at Premier Parks, Todd held several key leadership roles at Merlin Entertainments in North America. As Head of Brand Marketing, he guided the strategic direction for Merlin’s pillar brands — LEGOLAND® Discovery Centers and SEA LIFE® Aquariums — focusing on growth, brand consistency, and enhanced guest experience. Earlier in his Merlin career, Todd served as Head of Regional Marketing, overseeing the successful 2015 openings of the Orlando Eye, Madame Tussauds Orlando, and SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium. He first joined Merlin as part of the development and launch team for LEGOLAND Florida Resort in 2011.
“Todd’s remarkable experience across theme parks, FECs, aquariums, and destination attractions makes him an incredible fit for our IAAPA family,” said Michael Shelton, IAAPA Chief Operating Officer. “What stands out most is his passion for our industry and his commitment to serving members. We’re excited to welcome him aboard and look forward to the energy and insight he brings to the North America team.”
A longtime supporter of IAAPA, Todd served as a committee member for IAAPA Education initiatives for six years. He is also deeply engaged in the Florida tourism community, currently serving as Executive Treasurer for the Board of Directors at Experience Kissimmee, as well as past chair of the Visit Orlando Global Marketing Committee and former Board Member of the I-Drive Chamber of Commerce.
In his new role, Todd will lead IAAPA’s North America operations, including member engagement, regional strategy, and support for the association’s year-round programs, events, and advocacy efforts.
“It’s an honor to help advance the attractions industry for the families who rely on our experiences to create lifelong memories,” said Todd. “I look forward to growing this incredible industry alongside the IAAPA team. I’m genuinely excited to help take the association to the next level.”
Todd joined the association this week and has already begun connecting with members and supporting IAAPA’s initiatives across North America.
About IAAPA
IAAPA is a diverse and dynamic community of global attractions professionals. As the largest international trade association for permanently located attractions, IAAPA unifies the attractions community, connects people to learn and grow together, and strives to promote the highest professional standards for excellence and safety around the world.
Founded in 1918, IAAPA represents leading industry attractions and supplier companies, consultants, and individual members from more than 100 countries. Members include professionals from amusement parks, theme parks, attractions, water parks, resorts, family entertainment centers, zoos, aquariums, science centers, museums, cruise lines, manufacturers, and suppliers.
The association’s global headquarters and North America office are in Orlando, Florida, U.S. IAAPA also maintains offices in Brussels, Belgium; Dubai, United Arab Emirates; Hong Kong SAR, China; Shanghai, China; and Mexico City, Mexico.
Visit IAAPA.org or connect through IAAPA’s social media channels: @IAAPAHQ #IAAPA
