Six Flags Entertainment's CEO Makes Sudden Exit From Company

In a surprise announcement today, it was revealed that Six Flags Entertainment's CEO, John Duffey, has departed the company.  In his place is now James Reid-Anderson, who previously held the title of Chairman and CEO at the company from 2010 through 2016.

James Reid-Anderson

John Duffey was CEO of Six Flags for only 17 months, starting in the role in February, 2016.  Six Flags' official statement says that he "retired" from the company, and the Wall Street Journal is reporting that he did not leave due to health or performance issues, instead citing personal ones.  Mr. Duffey had taken on the CEO role as Mr. Reid-Anderson kept the Executive Chairman title, so as to be able to spend a bit more time with his family - though he never fully left Six Flags.

James Reid-Anderson commented in the official release, stating that “Six Flags is the leading regional theme park company in an extremely attractive industry, and we have significant global growth opportunities in the short, medium and long term.  I am very proud and excited to rejoin the operating team and look forward to executing our business strategy. We have had seven record years in a row and I believe that the best is yet to come. I do want to wish John all the very best for the future and to thank him for his major contributions during his excellent tenure with the company, including his time as president and CEO."

The stock market reacted negatively to the announcement this morning, though the losses were recouped slightly by the end of the trading session.  Mr. Reid-Anderson has a bright personality that quickly made him popular among park fans, with them looking forward to each year's announcement video.  Looks like we will see his return soon for the 2018 announcements!