Ken Withers
Anaheim,CA
Summary
Dynamic management professional with a proven track record of leading teams to exceed organizational goals and drive impactful results. Expertise in strategic planning and process improvement enhances operational efficiency while fostering a collaborative and adaptable work environment. Recognized for strong leadership skills, effective communication, and unwavering integrity, consistently delivering high standards in team performance. Committed to nurturing a culture of teamwork and innovation, ensuring alignment with evolving business needs.
Overview
2025
2025
years of professional experience
Work History
Group Manager of Theme Parks & FECs
Palace Entertainment
01.2021 - 01.2025
- Reported to the COO responsible for overseeing Theme Park (6 parks) & Family Entertainment Centers division (4 parks) for Palace Entertainment including full P&L responsibilities. Total attendance of 2 million and revenues of
- Work with park teams to build and reward an engaging team culture that ensures team member do what’s right and encourages high performance.
- Work with park teams to consistently build company value, identify and execute new revenue streams while driving existing business segments.
- Work with park teams to ensure operations compliance from company policy and initiatives
- Lead operations standards committee for Palace Entertainment Theme Park division, implementing ride operations standards across all company parks.
- Developed and implemented strategic initiatives to improve guest satisfaction and retention.
- Led cross-functional teams to enhance operational efficiency across multiple entertainment venues.
General Manager, Castle Park
Palace Entertainment/Castle Park
01.2017 - 01.2021
- Transferred to theme park division to lead the turnaround of 30-acre theme park including ride refurbishments, building improvements and financial results
- In addition to theme park General Manager responsible for overseeing the operations of family entertainment locations across the US
- Under my leadership as General Manager of Castle Amusement Park, increased revenue by 20% and increased attendance by 30% within first two years in the role
- Accomplished 24 months of growth including record revenues and EBITDA
- Expanded seasonal event programs and educational programs
- Identified opportunities for growth resulting in record Food Beverage and retail revenues
Corp Director of Family Entertainment Centers
Palace Entertainment
01.2012 - 01.2017
- Responsible for overseeing 21 Family Entertainment Centers throughout the US
- Developed and implemented multiple procurement strategies for the parks, including sourcing and fostering strategic partnerships with vendors
- Work with park General Managers and Maintenance teams to measure, monitor, report and improve performance of facility to assure safety, operations and revenue targets are achieved.
- Work with General Managers and park safety teams to assure park facilities are achieving corporate goals.
General Manager, Multiple Locations
Palace Entertainment
2007 - 01.2012
- Joined Palace Entertainment as General Manager of highest volume Family Entertainment Center - Leading park through conversion of restaurant, introduction of game card system and installation of two amusement rides
- Transferred to sister park, charged with physical and financial turnaround of 9-acre entertainment facility including refurbishment and upgrade of park facilities, addition of rides and attractions, development of guest service programs and team focused goals to achieve company objectives.
- Developed General Manager training program for the Family Entertainment Center Group of 21 parks; including travel for on-site training and team development.
General Manager
Boomers
01.2007 - 01.2009
- Joined Palace Entertainment to manage one of the highest revenue Fun Centers
- Led park through conversion of restaurant, introduction of game card system and installation of two amusement rides
- Increased revenues and EBITDA in the first year
- Streamlined staff training programs, improving onboarding efficiency and employee retention.
- Led operational strategies to enhance customer experience and optimize service delivery.
Director of Operations
POWER HOUSE Games
01.1999 - 01.2007
- Oversaw five fun centers and more than 60 mall locations across the US
- Recruited and trained local teams to manage and service locations
Education
Bachelor of Science - Systems Management
San Diego State University
Certificate - Executive Management
University of California, Irvine
Skills
- P&L management
- Team leadership
- Operational compliance
- Revenue growth strategies
- Compliance auditing
- Risk assessment
- Safety management
Affiliations
- Safety Instructor AIMS International- Amusement Industry Manufacturers and Suppliers
- Member International Associate of Amusement Parks & Attractions; Food & Beverage Committee Member
- Board Member California Attractions & Parks Association
Timeline
Group Manager of Theme Parks & FECs
Palace Entertainment
01.2021 - 01.2025
General Manager, Castle Park
Palace Entertainment/Castle Park
01.2017 - 01.2021
Corp Director of Family Entertainment Centers
Palace Entertainment
01.2012 - 01.2017
General Manager
Boomers
01.2007 - 01.2009
Director of Operations
POWER HOUSE Games
01.1999 - 01.2007
General Manager, Multiple Locations
Palace Entertainment
2007 - 01.2012
Bachelor of Science - Systems Management
San Diego State University
Certificate - Executive Management
University of California, Irvine