Alexander 'Al' Weber, Jr. has been named president and interim chief executive officer of Six Flags Entertainment Corporation.

The move is effective immediately and the company is now assessing candidates to serve as CEO on a permanent basis. "I am excited to have this opportunity," said Weber. "The company has made great strides to improve park operations and has significantly reduced its outstanding debt, paving the way for Six Flags to continue investing in its operations to provide an even more enjoyable experience for the whole family."

Weber previously served as president and CEO of Palace Entertainment, the US-based water park and family entertainment centre group. Prior to that - from 2002 to 2006 - he fulfilled the same posts at Paramount Parks. Six Flags is the largest regional theme park operator in the world, with 13 parks in the United States, Mexico and Canada and approximately 800 rides, including more than 120 roller coasters.