In 2012, Paul Kelly became CEO of the British Association of Leisure Parks, Piers and Attractions (BALPPA). Upon his appointment, chair of BALPPA Adrian Mohen praised Kelly’s “extensive experience dealing with politicians and local authorities and his expertise in this area will contribute significantly to BALPPA’s lobbying activities.” Kelly also has over 24 years of experience in the leisure sector, having specialised in operational planning, design and implementation of major visitor attractions: Most notably, he was responsible for the operational launch of the London Eye, securing a 25-year planning permission. Whilst working for Merlin Entertainments Group from 1988 to 2010, Kelly had several high-profile roles including: park manager at Thorpe Park; head of operations at the London Eye; and head of new business development and attractions.
