Chris Swartz has over 35 years experience working in the waterpark industry and is currently employed by Saudi Entertainment Ventures (SEVEN) as an Executive Director – Attractions. His current role sees him involved with the development and operations of facilities throughout the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Previously, Swartz worked with Jumeirah Group as the General Manager for Wild Wadi Waterpark in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Wild Wadi is the first waterpark in the UAE and is uniquely located on the Arabian Gulf next to the prestigious Burj Al Arab and Jumeirah Beach Hotels. Prior to this, Swartz served as the General Manager for NRH2O Family Waterpark located in North Richland Hills, Texas. NRH2O Family Waterpark is the largest city owned and operated park in the United States and it has garnered numerous awards and recognition over its operating history.

He joined the NRH2O / City of North Richland Hills team from White Water/American Adventures in Marietta, Georgia, where he worked as Operations Manager. Prior to this, he worked for Wet ‘n Wild Orlando beginning as a lifeguard and was promoted to Operations Training Supervisor. He has presented at numerous local, state, national and international conferences for the World Waterpark Association (WWA), the International Amusement and Attraction Association (IAAPA), the National Recreation and Parks Association, Rocky Mountain Revenue School (NRPA RMRMS), the Amusement Industry Manufacturers & Suppliers, International (AIMS), the Texas Recreation and Parks Association (TRAPS), the Middle East and North Africa Leisure & Attractions Council (MENALAC) and the Illinois Park & Recreation Association (IPRA). In 2010, “Aquatics International” featured him as one of the “Power 25 Reinventors” in the aquatics industry and he was awarded the WWA Executive Board Award in 2013. Swartz previously served on the WWA Board of Directors, and held offices of Secretary, Treasurer, Vice Chair, Chair and Past Chair. Currently Swartz serves as a Board Member for MENALAC.