“John has been an industry leader and active IAAPA volunteer for more than 10 years,” said Darrell Metzger, chairman of the IAAPA nominating committee and chairman of Themed Attractions and Destinations Resorts in Malaysia. “His extensive experience, understanding of the key issues and opportunities facing the worldwide industry, and his leadership acumen will play a key role in moving the association forward for the next five years.”
McReynolds started his career in the attractions industry in 1995 when he joined the Universal Orlando team as manager, government relations. He was named vice president in 1999, and in 2001 he assumed oversight responsibility for political, regulatory, and legislative matters for Universal’s parks and resorts in Orlando, Florida, and Hollywood, California. He was promoted to senior vice president in 2007 and is responsible for government and community relations for the company. Prior to joining Universal, and for eight years, McReynolds served on the staff of United States Senator Connie Mack.
McReynolds has also been an active volunteer within IAAPA for 10 years. He is a member of the board of directors for the IAAPA Foundation; has served two terms on the IAAPA Board of Directors; was on the association’s executive and nominating committees; and has chaired the IAAPA Government Relations and Political Action committees. McReynolds has also been a featured speaker at IAAPA Attractions Expo.
McReynolds is involved in a number of travel industry, civic, and community organizations including California Attractions and Parks Association, Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association, Visit Florida, Orlando Business Force, Efficient Transportation Coalition of Central Florida, Orlando Inner-City All Stars, West Orange Chamber of Commerce, California Tourism Industry Association, and the YMCA Aquatic Center.
The International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) is the premier trade association for the attractions industry worldwide. Founded in 1918, IAAPA is the largest international trade association for permanently situated amusement facilities and attractions and is dedicated to the preservation and prosperity of the amusement industry. IAAPA represents more than 4,000 facility, supplier, and individual members from more than 90 countries. Member facilities include amusement/theme parks, water parks, attractions, family entertainment centers, arcades, zoos, aquariums, museums, science centers, resorts, and casinos. IAAPA is a nonprofit organization. Revenue generated for the association by its involvement in trade shows and other activities are returned to the association to fund services for its members and the industry. The association’s global headquarters office is in Alexandria, Virginia, United States. The association maintains regional offices in Brussels, Mexico City, and Hong Kong.