The Themed Entertainment Association (TEA) has named Melissa Ruminot as its president-elect.

Ruminot, a current TEA International Board VP, will officially begin her tenure as president in November 2022, assuming the role held by Chuck Fawcett.

“I am confident that Melissa is the right leader to carry the TEA into a new era of growth,” said Fawcett.

“She is extremely strategic with unmatched attention to detail and has been an exemplary leader for many years as the Eastern Division president, chair of the Executive Director Selection Committee, and most recently, in covering operational responsibilities at headquarters during a period of staff transition."

Over the next 15 months, Ruminot will continue to serve on the Executive Committee and play an instrumental role in the International Board’s upcoming Board Planning Meeting in Chicago.

Commenting on her appointment, Ruminot said: “Understanding the priorities of our global membership is critically important to the health of our organization and will influence its overall strategy going forward.

“I’m also enjoying attending IAAPA Europe and SATE in Barcelona this week, and engaging in a deeper way with TEA’s members abroad.”

Outside her TEA role, Ruminot is VP of marketing and development for the Companies of Nassal, a company specialising in scenic and rockwork fabrications, focusing on delivering immersive experiences for theme parks, visitor attractions, zoos and aquariums.

Ruminot's appointment was confirmed following a unanimous vote by TEA's International Board.