Press Releases

Robinson Retires, Charles Bray Appointed President and CEO of IAAPA

ALEXANDRIA ( Jan 18, 2006) - J Clark Robinson, President and CEO of the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions announced his retirement effective February 1, 2006.

Robinson was appointed President in July 2002, after spending 27 years on the Association’s Board of Directors (1975-2002).  He served two terms as treasurer (1982-1983 and 1997-1998) and was Chairman from 1981-1982.  Robinson also served on the association’s Executive/Finance Committee for a total of 12 years.

“ IAAPA has made tremendous progress under Clark’s leadership,” Rob Norris, chair of the IAAPA Board of Directors stated.  “He played a vital role in the development of the  strategic plan which guides the association in planning and program development, and has strengthened our governance, our Board and our committees.”

Robinson will remain active in the association as the Executive Director of Global Affairs.  He will start his new position on February 1, 2006.

Charles Bray was hired as IAAPA’s Chief Financial Officer in June 2004.  Bray has more than 30 years of non profit and association experience, including serving as President of two associations, the International Association of Food Industry Suppliers (IAFIS) and the Electronic Retailing Association. 

“He is an accomplished association executive who has a legacy of improving organizational effectiveness through sound business practices and effective leadership development. Additionally, he has a proven track record in the trade show industry, having managed shows listed in the top 50 by Tradeshow Weekly Magazine and  launching two shows in the Pacific Rim.” Norris adds.

Prior to joining IAAPA, Bray was with the non-profit division of the business consulting firm RSM McGladrey, where he worked with non-profit clients on such issues as strategic planning, organizational effectiveness, board governance, and best practice benchmarking. 

“Charlie has implemented strategic planning, created a business development culture, increased membership diversity in his previous experiences and will bring his leadership and drive to IAAPA’s future endeavors,” said Jane Cooper, IAAPA’s immediate Past Board Chair.

Bray, who began his career with Arthur Andersen, has also spent five years with American University, and 17 years with the Food Marketing Institute, where he rose to senior vice president and chief financial officer.  He also owned and operated Bray & Jackson, P.C. 

Bray is a graduate of Virginia Tech University with a bachelor of science in business.  He is a member of the American Society of Association Executives, American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Business Bank Advisory Board.

# # #

IAAPA is the largest international trade association for permanently situated amusement facilities worldwide. The organization represents over 4,500 facility, supplier, and individual members from more than 90 countries. IAAPA strives to help members improve their efficiency, marketing, safety, and profitability while maintaining the highest possible professional standards in the industry. www.iaapa.org