Visitor attraction operator Continuum Attractions has strengthened its senior team with the appointment of a series of new hires to bolster its operations, marketing, recruitment and finance teams.

Continuum, with its portfolio ranging from ITV’s Emmerdale Village Tour and Coronation Street Experience to Edinburgh’s Real Mary King’s Close, has been a pioneer in the tourism industry for more than 40 years, putting award-winning human-led storytelling at the heart of its brands.

Scaling up its York Support Office function, Continuum has appointed Sarah Kilgallon as its new Brand Marketing Director, leading on shaping it’s UK-wide portfolio of attraction brands. Backed by a career in the drinks and hospitality industry with the likes of Greene King and Molson Coors Beverage Company, she will focus on further elevating how Continuum brings stories to life for guests across the country.

Sarah is joined by new Director of Operations North, Emma Searle, who will lead the group’s northernmost attractions including York’s Chocolate Story and The Loch Ness Centre. Meanwhile, Owen Schofield joins as Group Management Accountant and Mel Haywood as Group Recruitment Partner.

Commenting on the recent expansion, Andrew Pawson, CEO of Continuum Attractions, said: “As we continue to grow our portfolio and invest in our experiences, it’s essential that we have the right expertise driving us forward. Sarah, Emma, Owen and Mel each bring tremendous talent, energy and perspective to the business. Their combined experience will strengthen our capability across the board and help us deliver even more unforgettable, story-led attractions for our guests. I’m delighted to welcome them to the Continuum team as we look ahead to a bold and ambitious future.”

Emma Searle joined Continuum having previously been Head of Operations with In2action running operations across Europe, South East Asia and Hong Kong in hotels, international schools and corporate businesses. She will work alongside existing Group Operations Director, Paul Mahy.

Mel Haywood previously ran her own recruitment agency before commencing a career in internal recruitment by joining a global firm as Recruitment Manager, before becoming a Talent Acquisition Partner managing incoming team members at the likes of Ascot Racecourse, Edinburgh’s Royal Botanic Gardens and Fulham Football Club. Meanwhile, Owen Schofield brings over a decade of experience working across management accounts in construction, food manufacturing and charity accounts.

The latest wave of recruitment has also been rounded off by the promotion of Group Head of Marketing, Alex Caley, to Director of Marketing Services. Despite the new hires, Continuum is still looking to expand further with a recruitment process ongoing for a Finance Director and a Marketing Executive, both also based at its York Support Office.