Carowinds Announces Key Changes to its Executive Team

CHARLOTTE, N.C., Aug. 1, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Carowinds, the premier entertainment destination of the Carolinas, is in the midst of a significant multi-year expansion. As previously announced, Cedar Fair will invest more than $50 million at Carowinds  for new rides and attractions, new and upgraded food locations and general infrastructure improvements. The cornerstone of these exciting expansion plans will be announced by the park on Thursday, August 21.

In anticipation of these long-term plans, Carowinds has also announced changes in its executive team. Mike Fehnel has been appointed to the position of Vice President and General Manager of Carowinds and will oversee all aspects of Carowinds operations and its planned expansion. Fehnel replaces Bart Kinzel, who resigned earlier this month. In addition, Gary Chadwick has been promoted to the position of Vice President, Resale. He will report to Fehnel and oversee all aspects of in-park revenue.

"We've made a strong commitment to the Charlotte market," says Richard Zimmerman, Cedar Fair Chief Operating Officer. "These changes position Carowinds to meet and exceed the expectations that accompany the investment Cedar Fair is making in the park and provide our guests with a 'Best Day of Summer' experience each and every time they visit."

Fehnel comes to Carowinds with more than 20 years of experience at its sister property, Dorney Park in Allentown, Pennsylvania, where he most recently held the position of Vice President and General Manager.  Over the years, Fehnel served in a variety of leadership roles throughout Games, Merchandise, and Food and Beverage. Chadwick was promoted to his position after serving for many years as Director of Merchandise and Games at Carowinds.

Carowinds is owned and operated by Cedar Fair Entertainment Company, a publicly traded partnership that is listed for trading on The New York Stock Exchange under the symbol "FUN."  In addition to Carowinds, Cedar Fair owns and operates ten other amusement parks, three water parks, one indoor water park, and five hotels.  Cedar Fair also operates the Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park in California under a management contract.

Contact: Julie Whitted 
[email protected] 
704-587-9050

SOURCE Carowinds