Magic Springs Theme & Water Park General Manager, Jack Bateman, is set to retire in March, park officials announced in a press release on Tuesday. Jessyka Hanna, assistant general manager and director of operations, has been promoted to the general manager role as of Jan. 3.
Magic Springs is Arkansas’ only theme and water park, located in Hot Springs, about 50 miles west of Little Rock. A single price admission includes all-day use of the rides, water slides, concerts, attractions and special events. Magic Springs is operated by Premier Parks, LLC, which is currently headed by former Six Flags Chairman and CEO Kieran Burke.
Bateman will continue at the park in an advisory capacity during the transition, and Kyle Taylor, general manager at Parrot Island Water Park in Fort Smith, will take on Hanna’s former assistant general manager and director of operations role. Taylor brings 17 years of experience in the industry to his new role at Magic Springs.
“After 40 years in this industry, I am proud of the success I’ve created both here at Magic Springs and throughout my career,” said Bateman. “This park is something special and Jessyka has dedicated herself to helping it thrive for more than 20 years. She will be integral to its continued success as a place for families to create magic memories that last a lifetime.”
Hanna began working as a seasonal employee at Magic Springs in 2001 and has held various roles at the park over the years. In her new role as general manager, Hanna will be overseeing all aspects of the park including the waterpark, rides, security, maintenance, food services and human resources.
“It has always been my goal to see the park succeed in our small community,” said Hanna. “It has been my honor to manage the changes that have led to the park’s current success, whether it is new rides and attractions, great concert lineups or simply a positive work experience. I work to provide families with special memories during each visit, just like the ones my own family makes at the park.”
Hanna has participated on the Amusement Ride Safety Advisory Board for the State of Arkansas and is a Certified Aquatic Facilities Operator and Certified Pool Operator. She is a Hot Springs native and resides there with her husband Tim and their two sons, Beckett and Cooper. Hanna is also involved in the Junior Auxiliary of Hot Springs.
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