Universal Parks & Resorts has named a 28-year veteran to the newly created role of vice chairman.
Mark Woodbury, who leads Universal Creative for both of the domestic theme park locations and drives creative development with its international licensing partners, was named Friday to the new position. He joined Universal in 1988 during the design and development of Universal Studios Florida and in 1994 assumed a leadership role in the global expansion of the theme park and resort business.
“Mark has been a driving force for creativity, innovation, growth and development across the entire parks group,” said Tom Williams, chairman and CEO of Universal Parks & Resorts. “As we continue our incredible journey, I am happy that Mark will be by my side, playing a vital role in shaping our future and leading the greatest creative team in the world.”
Woodbury has led a multi-disciplinary team of professional designers, engineers, artists, planners, project managers, financial analysts and architects in the creative and development process.
Their award-winning accomplishments include the creation of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter themed attractions. Their work also includes entire theme parks, such as Universal’s Islands of Adventure, Universal Studios Osaka – and, in the future, Universal Beijing and Universal’s Volcano Bay. The team has also created some of the top-rated attraction experiences at Universal theme parks include Despicable Me, Minion Mayhem, TRANSFORMERS: The Ride – 3D, and Skull Island: Reign of Kong.
Woodbury will continue to serve as president of Universal Creative and will report to Williams.