New boss takes the helm of Big Bus Tours

A change at the top at Big Bus Tours will see Paul Stoneham take over as chief executive in the new year.

 

He will succeed Pat Waterman, who will become non-executive chairman after more than 25 years with the sight-seeing company.

 

Vagn Soerensen will step down as non-executive chairman and remain an advisor to the board and a shareholder in the firm.

 

Waterman, who joins on January 12, has served as chief executive of four international businesses - Boots Healthcare International, ghd, Helly Hansen, and most recently US-based Life Fitness.

 

The appointment marks the next phase of Big Bus Tours’ growth strategy, as the company expands into new destinations and broadens its portfolio of complementary services.

 

Stoneham said: “I am energised to join Big Bus Tours at such a pivotal moment in its journey. 

 

"Big Bus Tours is synonymous with outstanding city sightseeing – introducing new destinations, sparking curiosity, and helping people feel the pulse of a place the moment they arrive.

 

“Today, as the global experience economy continues to evolve, so too does the connectivity powering it – bringing together sightseeing, culture, retail, hospitality, and digital platforms to create more joined-up, seamless experiences.”

 

Waterman added: “Paul is a proven leader with deep expertise in building global brands and scaling customer-led businesses. 

 

"His leadership and strategic vision are an important step forward as we broaden our footprint, expand our portfolio, and strengthen Big Bus Tours’ position in current and new markets.”

 

Big Bus Tours has diversified beyond core sightseeing, including amphibious ‘Duck’ tours under the Big Duck Tours brand and the acquisitions of Touristation (Rome), West Coast Sightseeing (Vancouver), and Tour Dubai. 

 

The company operates in 28 cities across 20 countries worldwide, including New York, London, Paris, Rome and Singapore.