Paul Chutter is set to succeed his father, Geoff Chutter, as president of market leading waterpark manufacturer WhiteWater, while Geoff remains as CEO.
A family business, WhiteWater celebrated its 40th anniversary on 15 December, 2020, and WhiteWater is which provides a continuity and focus on sustaining success for future generations. Paul Chutter left a successful global banking career more than seven years ago to join his father Geoff at WhiteWater. Starting in sales operations, he became the company’s chief business development officer, in which role he has streamlined processes and forged strategic alliances. He was instrumental in bringing WhiteWater’s technology company, Vantage, to market and is a founder of Endless Surf.
Looking ahead, Paul comments: “What we do, together with our clients, is very significant—we make moments that bring families together, something everyone recognizes and values more than ever after the past year. To be able to work alongside my father and ensure that continues long into the future is a huge responsibility and honour that I’m excited to take on.”
Doug Smith, who has overseen WhiteWater’s Asia Pacific region as the regional vice president for the last six years, now steps into the role of global head of sales. He will be immersing himself back into the Americas alongside his global responsibilities allowing for Franceen Gonzales to take on a new role as chief experience officer within WhiteWater. Franceen has held senior operations and strategic development roles with Great Wolf Resorts and Six Flags before joining WhiteWater seven years ago to lead the Americas region.
The Asia Pacific leadership role that Doug vacates is passed on to David Bogdonov, who has spent eight years as Vice President of Business Development for China. Before that from 2008 to 2011 he supported sales for the wider Asia region.
Geoff explained: “WhiteWater is a powerhouse in our industry because of our talented people, it is with tremendous pride I see Paul step into the role of President and announce these leadership changes. I know that we have the best team in the industry and together we will continue to deliver the very best products and guest experiences possible, working tirelessly to reward the trust our clients place in us.” He concluded, “From the largest entertainment brands to a first-time developer, we partner with our customers, not just to deliver thrilling experiences but to support them with operational insights, safety leadership, and enduring quality—because their success is one with ours.”