ORLANDO, Fla. — Universal Destinations & Experiences, the Comcast NBCUniversal division focused on parks, resorts and other entertainment, has appointed a new president to lead its Universal Creative unit.
What You Need To Know
- Molly Murphy has been appointed the new president of Universal Creative; she will begin the role on Aug. 14
- Murphy previously served as principal and co-managing director of Gensler New York
- The news comes months after former Universal creative president Mike Hightower and COO Thierry Coup left the creative unit
- Universal is in the middle of building its new Orlando theme park, Epic Universe, which is slated to be complete by the summer of 2025
Molly Murphy has been named the new president of the unit, which designs and develops Universal's attractions, rides and resort. She will begin the role Aug. 14, the company announced Monday.
Murphy, who was previously an executive with global architecture and design firm Gensler New York, will be tasked with developing and leading the long-term vision and strategy of Universal Creative. Other responsibilities include collaborating with other leaders across the company to “position Destinations as the leader in theme parks attractions and immersive entertainment experiences and next generation offerings.”
“Our focus on expanding the Universal brand to new people, in new places and on new platforms is well underway,” said Universal Destinations & Experiences chairman and CEO Mark Woodbury in a release. “(Murphy's) ability to blend technology with architecture, brand and design will help take our great product to even higher levels.”
The appointment comes a few months after former Universal Creative executives — president Mike Hightower and chief creative officer Thierry Coup —retired from the division. Hightower and Coup were among several executives who opted to take an early retirement package.
Murphy will lead the division as construction is well underway on Universal’s new Orlando theme park, Epic Universe. The park, which is slated to open by summer 2025, will feature shops, restaurants, and multiple themed lands, including Super Nintendo World. Earlier this year, Universal announced plans to open a regional park in Texas and a horror experience in Las Vegas.
“Human interaction and connection are at the heart of physical design and the delivery of compelling places,“ Murphy said in the release. “Universal brings this idea to life better than anyone else, and I am looking forward to joining the team as we create authentic, lasting experiences for our guests and fans around the world.”
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