IAAPA Names Mike Rigby VP & Executive Director of MENA Region
Mike Rigby // Photo: Courtesy of IAAPA
(eap) The IAAPA has appointed a Vice President and Executive Director for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, marking a further step in the association’s ongoing international expansion. Michael Rigby (photo) will assume the role on 26 April. He brings more than 20 years of international industry experience and most recently served as General Manager of WhiteWater Middle East, where he oversaw the company’s activities across the Middle East, Africa and South Asia. In his new position, Rigby is expected to drive the expansion of IAAPA’s activities in the MENA region, strengthen the membership base, and further develop educational offerings as well as the overall growth of the industry.
“Michael’s deep regional expertise, industry relationships, and strategic vision make him the ideal leader as we establish and grow IAAPA’s presence in the Middle East and North Africa,” said Jakob Wahl, President and CEO of IAAPA. “We are thrilled to welcome him to the team during this pivotal time of expansion.”
Rigby has been based in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for more than a decade and has played a key role in the delivery of several high-profile projects across the region, including at Yas Waterworld and Atlantis Aquaventure, as well as at the recently opened Aquarabia water park in Qiddiya City (near Riyadh, Saudi Arabia). In addition to IAAPA, Mike Rigby is also actively involved in other industry organizations such as MENALAC and the Themed Entertainment Association (TEA).
Only recently, the first regional advisory board chair of IAAPA MENA was announced, with Neil Dwyer set to assume the role as of 1 July. ■
