
In December, the waterparks powerhouse WhiteWater celebrated its 40th anniversary. It also recently underwent several personnel changes.
Paul Chutter is succeeding his father, Geoff Chutter, as the compamy's president. Geoff Chutter remains as CEO.
Paul Chutter joined his father at WhiteWater more than seven years ago after a career in global banking. He started in sales operations before becoming the company’s chief business development officer, during which he lead record years, streamlined processes and forged strategic alliances, according to the company. He played a large role in bringing WhiteWater’s technology company, Vantage, to market and is a founder of Endless Surf.
“What we do, together with our clients, is very significant—we make moments that bring families together, something everyone recognizes and values more than ever after the past year," Paul Chutter said. "To be able to work alongside my father and ensure that continues long into the future is a huge responsibility and honor that I’m excited to take on.”
Among his first moves in his new position, Paul Chutter made some leadership changes.

Doug Smith, who has overseen WhiteWater’s Asia Pacific region as regional vice president for the last six years, now steps into the role of global head of sales. He brings decades of global sales experience spanning interactives, adventure play, water rides, and waterparks, with experience in the European, North American and Asian markets. In addition to his global responsibilities, he will come back into the Americas.

This change allows Franceen Gonzales to take on a new role, using her supplier and customer insights to elevate the customer journey as chief experience officer. She joined WhiteWater seven years ago to lead the Americas region after holding senior operations and strategic development roles with Great Wolf Resorts and Six Flags. Known for her work championing safety and the industry, she has traveled extensively and is familiar with our customers in many markets.
Gonzales also serves as chaiman of the board for the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance.

David Bogdonov will take over leadership of the Asia Pacific region from Smith. Bogdonov served as vice president of business development for China for eight years. From 2008 to 2011, he supported sales for the wider Asia region. He also brings engineering qualifications and large-scale construction project management experience.