TEA | Appoints Melissa Oviedo as CEO

The Themed Entertainment Association (TEA), a non-profit organization representing fascinating places and experiences around the worldhas appointed Melissa Oviedo appointed as the new CEO.

Oviedo’s appointment followed a thorough and open recruitment process that attracted over 30 highly qualified candidates. Oviedo previously served as TEA’s international board chair and assumed her new role on October 1.

“Industry knowledge and insights”

Oviedo has served on a voluntary basis in the leadership of the TEA for the past 12 years and has served in her most recent role as President of the International Board since 2023.

This prior leadership at the Association will help strengthen the connection between the strategic goals of the International Board of Directors and the TEA team members responsible for executing the existing long-term strategy so that TEA’s volunteer resources can be used more effectively .

At a time when TEA’s membership is growing worldwide, expanding into adjacent sectors and establishing itself in a dynamic cross-section of associations and trade groups, Oviedo’s astute understanding of the market, his intimate familiarity with TEA’s operations and his progressive view of the Potential of the organization beneficial will enable significant change.

With a commitment to a parallel focus on the management and growth of the company, Oviedo will enable the association to take advantage of the opportunities presented and develop new relationships that will benefit the TEA and its members in the short, medium and long term benefit in the long term.

Matt Barton of 7thSense, new TEA President, says: “Our commitment in the recruiting process was to hire an industry leader who can help the International Board and TEA staff fulfill the strategic plan while identifying and acting on opportunities to respond.” appear from many directions.

“Melissa is the ideal fit because she brings both industry knowledge and insight as well as a deep understanding of the association’s current needs to drive growth while providing collaborative stability to the TEA staff and volunteer leadership.”

To provide a seamless transition between responsibilities, TEA and B Morrow Productions (BMP), where Oviedo operated Chief Business Officerhave implemented a collaborative schedule.

This will enable Oviedo to meet the operational and strategic requirements of her role through the end of the year, particularly in relation to the execution and management of BMP’s holiday initiatives. During this transition period, Oviedo will be able to fulfill her responsibilities to BMP’s customers while also assuming the role of CEO at TEA.

Brian Morrow, CEO and Founder of BMP says: “As a long-time member and financial supporter of the TEA, we fully agree that Melissa is the best choice for the association’s future.” BMP supports and appreciates the association in her transition to full-time CEO the Executive Committee’s out-of-the-box thinking to help mitigate the impact on our business and customers during this transition.”

Last month TEA announced that 2024 Masters of the Field award winner. This program recognizes the achievements of individuals, including creators, managers, designers, writers, producers, engineers and craftsmen, who have made significant and lasting contributions to the themed entertainment industry through innovation, design, craftsmanship, leadership and/or art.