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IAAPA Announces Institute for Emerging Leaders

New Professional Development Program Designed for Up and Coming Managers and Executives

Alexandria, Va. (USA) - The International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) has announced details of its latest management development program, the Institute for Emerging Leaders. The new two- and-a-half day program is designed for dedicated industry professionals with at least three years experience, and who have a desire to be part of a senior management team.  The program is also intended for managers entering the attractions industry laterally, from other business sectors. The interactive, hands-on learning modules include a blend of classroom instruction, audio presentation, case study, class work, and field work. The institute will take place in Orlando, Fla. during the IAAPA Attractions Expo 2007, on Nov. 11, 12, and 13.

The Institute for Emerging Leaders coursework covers five core subject areas:

Facility Operations and Safety: industry regulation, best facility management practices, employee training, guest safety, risk management, and an overview of ASTM/F22 ride standards.

Revenue Operations: Food and Beverage, Retail, and Games: revenue theory, inventory control, up-selling, and pricing strategies.

Marketing and Public Relations: marketing theory, public relations, advertising, promotions, electronic marketing, sponsorships, collaboration, and success measurement.
* Confirmed speaker: Bob Williams of Callaway Park

Finance Capital: revenue theory, planned income vs. actual, operating margins and ratios, capital investment, return on investment (ROI), and asset management.

Leadership: seasonal hiring, training, turnover, team building, understanding young workers, motivation, and performance management.
*Confirmed speaker: Tim Ruedy of Burroughs & Chapin Co., Inc  

Students will learn success metrics, key operational functions and drivers necessary to operate a successful attraction. The Institute for Emerging Leaders utilizes a fictional park, Funworld, as a key teaching tool. Attendees will explore Funworld Park’s finances, revenue operations, and marketing strategy. On the final day of the program, attendees will build and present a business plan for an expansion of Funworld Park. The culminating event will challenge the participants to use their new-found knowledge and resources available on the trade show floor of the Expo to develop a plan for park expansion. 

“The Institute for Emerging Leaders is an exciting program for IAAPA and a step forward in career development for the industry.  It is a great opportunity for managers with at least three years experience to learn more about the industry, as well as build a network of industry colleagues to help sustain their career growth in the future,” stated IAAPA president and CEO, Charlie Bray. “Of course all of that is being done in the best location possible: IAAPA Attractions Expo 2007.” 

Fees for IAAPA’s Institute of Emerging Leaders are $600 for IAAPA members and $900 for non-members and include all education materials, and day-time meals. IAAPA Attractions Expo 2007 registration is also required. Information on the Institute for Emerging Leaders or how to register is available at http://registration.expoexchange.com/ShowIAA071/DefaultAttendee.aspx

Other Educational Opportunities Available At IAAPA Attractions Expo 2007

Attractions Management School
IAAPA’s Attractions Management School courses include six interactive, in-depth, day long workshops, designed to improve attendees’ understanding of the industry. Attendees have the opportunity to learn about cutting edge industry trends and develop applicable skills in marketing, public relations, operations, guest services, loss prevention, and safety. The Attractions Management School courses will take place during IAAPA Attractions Expo 2007, Nov. 12 - 16.

Educational Seminars
More than 96 educational seminars in nine specialty tracks will be offered at IAAPA Attractions Expo 2007. The 120 hours of programming focus on best practices, industry trends and other topics that impact performance, innovation and strategy in the attractions industry.  Specialty tracks include: Family Entertainment Centers, Government Relations, Human Resources, Marketing and Communications, Museums and Science Centers, Resale Operations (including Food and Beverage/Games/ Merchandising), Small Parks and Attractions, Waterparks, and Zoos and Aquariums.

IAAPA Attractions Expo 2007

The IAAPA Attractions Expo 2007 is the largest conference and trade show for the amusement park and attractions industry in the world. With its theme “Expand Your Universe” the show will drawan estimated 25,000 people from more than 85 countries from the amusement and leisure industries to the Orange County Convention Center from Monday, Nov. 12, through Friday, Nov. 16. The trade show floor will be open Tuesday, Nov.13 through Friday, Nov.16.

IAAPA Attractions Expo 2007 offers a solid week of business and fun. More than 1,000 exhibitors will display their products and services in 500,000 net square feet of exhibit space. The event will also include educational sessions, behind-the-scenes tours, marquee social events and networking opportunities. This is the marketplace where amusement and attraction industry leaders, decision makers and visionaries gather to network, view the latest innovations, and plan for the future.

About IAAPA
IAAPA is the premier trade association for the attractions industry worldwide.  Founded almost 90 years ago, IAAPA is the largest international trade association for permanently situated amusement facilities and attractions and is dedicated to the preservation and prosperity of the amusement industry.