Universal Studios Hollywood has promoted Karen Irwin to the role of president and COO of the entertainment complex, overseeing all business operations for the theme park and adjacent Universal CityWalk.

Irwin, who most recently served as executive vice president of global merchandise and partnership development for the Universal Parks and Resorts, succeeds Larry Kurzweil, a 20-year veteran of the company, who is departing to join a private equity firm specialising in the food industry.

In making the announcement Thomas Williams, chairman and CEO of Universal Parks and Resorts, said: “Karen is creative, strategic, focused and a true leader and been at the forefront of our incredible growth in merchandise over the past 10 years.

“She has a wealth of operational and senior management experience in all facets of our business and was instrumental in all of the development of our incredible Harry Potter offerings. Karen is uniquely qualified for this important role and we look forward to welcoming her to this new chapter in her career.”

Irwin began her career with Universal Orlando in 1990 as part of the opening team for Universal Studios Florida.

In other California attractions news, Jeff Klocke has assumed the role of general manager at the Pacific Park amusement park on Santa Monica Pier, Los Angeles.