The Themed Entertainment Association (TEA), a non-profit representing compelling places and experiences worldwide, has appointed Melissa Oviedo as its new chief executive officer.
Oviedo’s appointment follows a thorough and open recruitment process that attracted over 30 highly qualified candidates. Previously serving as TEA’s international board president, Oviedo assumed her new role on 1 October.
“Industry knowledge & insight”
Oviedo has held volunteer leadership within the TEA for the past 12 years and has served in her most recent role as international board president since 2023.
This previous leadership expertise with the Association will help strengthen the connection between the International Board of Directors’ strategic goals and the TEA team members in charge of implementing the existing long-term strategy, allowing TEA’s volunteer resources to be utilized more effectively.
In an era where TEA’s membership is growing globally, expanding into adjacent sectors, and establishing itself in a dynamic cross-section of associations and trade groups, Oviedo’s astute understanding of the market, close familiarity with TEA operations, and progressive outlook on the organisation’s potential will allow for significant change.
With a commitment to establishing a parallel emphasis on running and growing the company, Oviedo will position the Association to capitalise on opportunities as they emerge and build new relationships that will benefit the TEA and its members in the short, medium, and long term.
Matt Barton of 7thSense, incoming TEA president, says: “Our commitment in the recruitment process was to hire a leader from within the industry who could help the International Board and TEA staff fulfil the strategic plan while at the same time identify and respond to the opportunities that are emerging from many directions.
“Melissa is the ideal fit, with both industry knowledge and insight, as well as a keen understanding of the current needs of the association to propel growth while also offering stability to the TEA staff and volunteer leadership collectively.”
In order to facilitate a seamless transition between responsibilities, TEA and B Morrow Productions (BMP), where Oviedo has served as chief business officer, have implemented a collaborative timeline.
This allows Oviedo to fulfil the operational and strategic demands of her role until the end of the year, particularly concerning the execution and management of BMP’s holiday initiatives. Oviedo can fulfil her responsibilities to BMP’s clients throughout this transition period while assuming the role of CEO with TEA immediately.
Brian Morrow, CEO and founder of BMP, says: “As a long-standing member and financial supporter of the TEA, we wholeheartedly agree that Melissa is the best choice for the future of the association. BMP supports the association as she transitions to the full-time CEO and appreciates the out-of-box thinking of the Executive Committee to help ease the impact on our business and clients during this transition.”
Last month, TEA announced the 2024 Masters of Their Craft honourees. This programme celebrates the achievements of individuals, including creators, managers, designers, writers, producers, engineers, and craftspeople, who have made significant and long-lasting contributions to the themed entertainment industry through innovation, design, craftsmanship, leadership, and/or artistry.
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