Terry W. Prather, president, SeaWorld Orlando

 

Being the head of a theme park comes with multiple duties and challenges for SeaWorld Orlando President Terry W. Prather, who also oversees sister parks Discovery Cove and Aquatica.

 

SeaWorld — and other area theme parks — had their hands full with the recent tough economy that caused travel plans to be postponed. But the Orlando marine life park has done its best to continue drawing in guests by introducing new attractions such as the 2011 opening of The Grand Reef, a multilevel swimming adventure at Discovery Cove allowing guests to swim alongside sea life.

 

And with a brand new year ahead of him, Prather said SeaWorld fans also can expect to hear about “our terrific lineup of park events and concerts, and an all-new Shamu show.”

 

Age: 55.

  

Hometown: Atlanta.

  

Family: Wife, Shayla; four sons and one daughter; six grandchildren.

 

Previous jobs: I managed construction projects for commercial buildings, nuclear power plants and 72-story high-rise buildings.

 

Hobbies: Golf and spending time with family — but not always in that order.

 

Little-known fact: I was the first African-American general manager of a major theme park (2000, Jazzland Theme Park in New Orleans).

 

Basic philosophy: Every detail matters.

 

Best way to keep a competitive edge: Remember that getting to the top takes work, but staying at the top takes a lot more work.

 

Words I live by: Always have faith, and never live in fear.

 

What goals I hope to achieve as president of SeaWorld: That SeaWorld, Aquatica and Discovery Cove will continue to top the must-see lists of residents and vacationers alike.

 

Outlook for the tourism industry: It’s been a tough road the past few years, but we’re starting to see recovery. People will want to travel again and spend time with their families and friends. Visiting SeaWorld is one of those amazing places for them to connect with each other.

 

 

Best business decision: Getting out of my comfort zone by leaving SeaWorld San Antonio and working in the museum/nonprofit sector for two years.

 

Worst business decision: Developing a plan for a water park in New Orleans, and a few weeks before it could be approved, Hurricane Katrina put the entire park under water.

 

Most important lesson learned: Not everyone thinks the way I do.

 

 

Why I chose this profession: There are few things that have such a positive impact on families like theme parks.

 

Life motto: Don’t let anyone steal my joy.

 

First choice for a new career: School teacher. I wish more people would take more notice of: Senior citizens.

 

The most surprising thing that happened to me: Meeting my wife at a wedding reception. It was love at first sight.

 

My best friend says I am: A good friend.

 

 

Fondest childhood memory: Playing sports in the backyard with my dad.

 

Most influential book: Quiet Strength by Tony Dungee.

 

Favorite sports team: Atlanta Braves. 

 

Favorite movie: Crimson Tide.

 

Favorite restaurants: The Capital Grille (Orlando), Red Fish Grille (New Orleans).

 

Favorite vacation spot: Hawaii.

 

Favorite room in the house: Outside on the patio is the most peaceful place at home.

04/2011