A NEW managing director has been appointed to lead Bournemouth Pier to a future fit to ‘delight the customers of tomorrow’.

The Openwide Group, which operates the Bournemouth landmark, as well as Cromer Pier in Norfolk, have appointed Sarah Hunter to the role.

In December 2022, former director Rory Holburn led a management buyout to become Openwide’s major shareholder, as former MD Steve Cutbush took a step back to enjoy a well-earned retirement.

Now, Sarah will lead the company on behalf of Rory, as he recognises the need for the next generation to step up and meet the demands and desires of an ever-changing marketplace.

“Over the past seven years with Openwide, Sarah has impressed me immensely with her tenacity, drive, and determination to lead the business forward,” said Rory.

“In her new role as managing director, she will bring the next generation of leadership to the company to establish a future to delight the customers of tomorrow.

Sarah Hunter, the new MD of Openwide

“She will lead a strong team of dedicated professionals across multiple disciplines to continue to deliver for the company, our team and all our partners and clients.”

With 22 years in sales and marketing, Sarah brings a wealth of experience, he said, saying she is a ‘visionary leader with a deep understanding of market dynamics’.

On a professional level, Sarah is a member of the Chartered Institute of Marketing and various leisure attraction groups.

Away from the office, she is a keen sportsperson, having recently completed two Ironman 70.3 triathlon races.

And she said she was delighted to take on the role of managing director.

“I’m thrilled to have been given this opportunity and I will be looking to work closely with both Bournemouth Christchurch & Poole (BCP) and North Norfolk District Councils to further enhance and develop our attractions on both Bournemouth and Cromer Piers,” Sarah said.

The firm also operates Cromer Pier, in Norfolk. Picture: Google

“They are both iconic landmarks and we are extremely privileged to be charged with operating and protecting their heritage for future generations, while continuing to delight the needs of the locals and tourists of today.”

She said she would continue the tradition of the landmark piers of ‘creating fun, memorable adventures and experiences’ for visitors.

“This is the start of an exciting new chapter for the company, we have already started working on plans to develop and grow the business and I am truly honoured to have been given this opportunity to lead the company forward,” she added.

The Openwide Group was formed in 1992 as a company of producers and imagineers,
designing innovative attractions, shows and new and original themes for conferences and trade launches.

It has since diversified into a range of projects across the industry and developed its own in-house brands and operations, employing a team of more than 150 staff.