David Rosenberg will become the first representative of the zoo and aquarium sector to lead IAAPA, after he was confirmed as chair of the board for 2019.

Rosenberg, vice president at the Monterey Bay Aquarium in California, will take over the chairmanship of the attractions industry's international trade association in early 2019.

The confirmation of Rosenberg's role was part of the introduction of the 2019 IAAPA officers, which took place during the Kickoff Event at the IAAPA Attractions Expo in Orlando, Florida today (13 November).

Amanda Thompson, managing director of Blackpool Pleasure Beach, was named first vice chair and Ken Whiting, president of Whiting’s Foods at Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, US, was confirmed as second vice chair.

Rosenberg is an attractions industry veteran, having started his career at Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida. Prior to his role at Monterey Bay Aquarium, he also served in leadership positions at Hyatt Hotels Corporation.

"I'm humbled to be selected to help lead our global association during this exciting time for the worldwide attractions industry," said Rosenberg.

"IAAPA is in the process of establishing its new headquarters office in Orlando as we begin to plan for the next 100 years of the association. I look forward to playing a leadership role in shaping that future."