Global visitor attraction operator Merlin Entertainments has promoted Mike Vallis to the position of Divisional Director for Thorpe Park, in Surrey.

He joins the team from his role as Divisional Director at Chessington World of Adventures & Zoo, also in Surrey, where he oversaw the acquisition of the park by the Merlin group, a move that saw the opening of Sea Life on Park and reinforced the park’s winter offer based around its animals.

In his new position, Vallis will oversee major investment in the park and hopes that more groups will be attracted to the venue with the opening of Saw – The Ride in the spring.