IAAPI elects Shirish Deshpande as its 10th president

Indian Association of Amusement Parks and Industries (IAAPI), the apex body representing the interests of Amusement Parks, Theme Parks, Water Parks and Family Entertainment Centre in India has announced the appointment of CEO EsselWorld and Water kingdom, Shirish Deshpande as the industry body's new President.

A veteran in the entertainment and amusement industry, Deshpande takes over from Ajay Sarin as the 10th President of IAAPI.

As President of IAAPI, Deshpande will drive IAAPI's agenda of creating and sustaining an environment conducive to the development of Amusement sector in India in collaboration with the stakeholders.

Under his leadership, extending the agenda of beyond business, IAAPI will also play a crucial role in promoting tourism, generating employment, taking forward the safety aspects of the industry, and creating a sustainable platform for enable potential investors to invest in this sunrise industry.

"I would like to congratulate Shirish on being elected as the new President of IAAPI. He is an innovator and a great leader who has been closely associated with the industry for a long time now and understands all the nitty-grittys. I am confident, that through his thoughtful strategies and a planned approach he will take the industry to great heights. I wish him all the success," said Former President of IAAPI, Ajay Sarin.

Shirish Deshpande, the current Chief Executive Officer of EsselWorld and Water Kingdom, is credited with taking the brands to new heights.

He also led the brand's foray into the hospitality and family entertainment centre known as Downtown EsselWorld at Seasons Mall in Pune.

"At the very onset I would like to express my gratitude towards Ashok Goel, Promoter and Director, EsselWorld and Water Kingdom for entrusting me with the responsibility of India's most popular and largest amusement park. It is his constant encouragement which has motivated me to take up such a challenging responsibility at IAAPI," said President IAAPI and CEO PIPPL, Shirish Deshpande.

"I feel extremely honored to be given the opportunity to lead IAAPI, which is an institution in itself. The entertainment and amusement park industry is one of the most unique yet challenging sectors which promise huge potential. Through significant investments in technology, the sector is at a cusp of a major transformation which will enhance customer experience and keep them engaged. I am very excited about my new role and with looking forward to work closely in taking this industry to new level," added Deshpande.