The basics:
- Morey’s Piers VP Denise Beckson on track to chair IAAPA in 2029
- Beckson elected second vice chair for a one-year term in 2026
- The chief administrative & external affairs officer has spent nearly three decades with Morey’s Piers
- IAAPA represents attractions businesses in more than 100 countries
Longtime Morey’s Piers executive Denise Beckson is on track to become chair of the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions.
The global trade group elected Beckson second vice chair of its board of directors in September. She will hold the seat for a one-year term. She’ll then become first vice chair in 2028, before assuming the role of chair in 2029.
Beckson is vice president and chief administrative & external affairs officer at family-owned and operated seaside amusement park Morey’s in Wildwood.
For nearly three decades, Beckson has played a vital role in leading operations across the company’s three amusement piers, two beachfront water parks, four hotel properties, restaurants, golf course and affiliated businesses in the Wildwoods.
Her public affairs work has included engagement on legislation, regulation, workforce development, safety, tourism, and professional standards affecting the attractions and hospitality industries.
An industry player
Beckson is also widely recognized as a leader in the hospitality and attractions industries. She is chair of the New Jersey Restaurant & Hospitality Association and sits on boards for New Jersey Business & Industry Association (NJBIA) and the Coalition for American Diplomacy and Leadership (CAPDL).
As the premier trade association for the attractions industry, IAAPA has members in more than 100 countries spanning amusement parks, theme parks, water parks, resorts, entertainment centers, zoos, aquariums, museums, manufacturers and suppliers.
Beckson currently serves as chair of the IAAPA’s North America regional advisory board, as well as leads the group’s bylaws & policies review task force. Her background also includes leadership posts on committees for finance, executive finance, governance and strategic planning.
According to the IAAPA, the global board of directors works in partnership with the association’s leadership team on:
- Establishing and approving strategic priorities
- Overseeing the annual business plan and finances
- Providing guidance on member products and services
Board members also act as ambassadors for the global attractions industry, the IAAPA said.
‘An extraordinary and well-earned honor’
Commenting on her new role, Beckson said, “I am deeply honored to have the opportunity to continue serving an organization and an industry that have meant so much to me throughout my career.”
“IAAPA has an extraordinary ability to bring together people from around the world who share a passion for creating memorable experiences for guests. I look forward to working alongside my fellow board members and IAAPA’s leadership to strengthen our industry, support our members, and help shape its future,” she said.
Morey’s Piers President and CEO Will Morey described Beckson as an “integral part” of his family’s company “and the broader attraction industry for more than 30 years.”
“Her ability to bring people together, navigate complex issues, and advocate for the long-term health of our industry has made a strong positive impact here in Wildwood, throughout New Jersey, and across the attractions community. To see Denise selected by her peers for a leadership role that will ultimately culminate with her serving as Chair of IAAPA is an extraordinary and well-earned honor,” he said.
The post Morey’s Piers executive to chair IAAPA in 2029 appeared first on NJBIZ.
