Dorset’s Merlin Entertainments welcomes new CFO
Merlin Entertainments has appointed Karim Hajjar as CFO to spearhead the Dorset company’s financial, investment and M&A strategy.
Karim will report to CEO Scott O’Neil and work closely with the executive leadership team to drive growth across Merlin’s international brand portfolio.
He brings more than 30 years’ financial experience to the role, including in the energy, resources and chemicals industries – most recently with Solvay, where he spearheaded record financial performance for the Belgian firm.
Karim has also held senior positions with Shell and Tarmac Group, before which he worked as a chartered accountant for Grant Thornton and became one of their youngest partners.
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He said: “I’m thrilled to be joining the Merlin team at an exciting moment for the company as it leverages its strong foundations and realises its full value potential, creating more amazing experiences and memories for visitors across the world.
“I look forward to working with Scott and the executive team to deliver on the strategic direction, and to accelerate its growth, further extending Merlin’s global leadership in the sector.”
Karim takes over this February from Alistair Windybank, who announced his retirement in October 2023.
Alistair will stay on for a short time to ensure a seamless handover.
CEO Scott O’Neil added: “Karim is a deeply respected financial executive with a proven track-record of delivering strong and sustainable growth and innovation across complex multi-national businesses.
“His leadership will be pivotal to our continued global expansion and ambition of creating the greatest place in the world to work and play.
“An exceptional strategic and financial operator, we’re enthusiastic about the fresh energy and profound impact Karim will bring to our executive and broader team, as well as our investor relations.
“I’d like to thank Alistair for his outstanding contribution to Merlin over the last 15 years and wish him all the best for his well-earned retirement.”
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