Rory has over 30 years of experience in developing, managing and consulting on visitor attractions around the world.
Previously Director of Operations for London, UK’s, leading theme Park, Chessington World of Adventures, Rory originally trained as a classical actor in one of London’s leading drama schools and started his career both performing on stage and in back stage supporting roles.
Realizing he was not 6 foot tall, was not about to get the lead in Hamlet, and with no desire to finesse the artistry of “coffee barista”, he developed a career in lighting design and then in devising, directing and producing live entertainment.
After an 18 month tour and West End run managing Spike Milligan, one of the UKs’ leading iconic comics, Rory was invited to join the team redeveloping an old zoo into London’s leading theme park. Initially responsible for developing the live entertainment product and animal presentations program, Rory worked throughout the park, achieving the role of Director of Operations over a ten year career.
In subsequent years, as well as developing and operating his own concepts and attractions in the UK, Rory has been engaged on numerous projects including Warner Bros. Harry Potter Studio Tour, The Oman Ministry of Tourism, The Royal Armouries, Fire Power Museum, OMRAN Oman, SpaceToons Jordan, Virgin Holidays Barbados and local government seafront regeneration for Bournemouth and North Norfolk in the UK.
Rory also specializes in the development and operation of Adventure Sports Attractions. A keen rock climber and outdoor activity instructor in his youth, and still a fanatical skier, Rory developed the world’s first Pier to Beach zipline in the UK and started the RockReef adventure sports attraction with the aim of bringing the great outdoors indoors and the mountains to the high street.
With his family living in Dubai, Rory continues to produce the last surviving End of Pier Show in the world, on Cromer Pier in England, whilst based half of each month in Dubai and looking to grow Apogee’s presence throughout the MENA.
