For Wyman Roberts, vacationing at Universal Studios proved to be so much fun that he decided to land a career in the industry. Roberts has been appointed executive vice president of marketing—chief marketing officer—for Universal Studios Recreation Group.
Roberts oversees all worldwide marketing strategies, sales, activities, consumer positioning, and brand development for Universal Studios’ recreation properties. Such properties include Universal Studios Japan, Universal Studios Hollywood, CityWalk Hollywood, Universal Studios’ Aventura in Spain, Universal Orlando’s resort destination—including CityWalk, Islands of Adventure, Universal Studios and hotels, and the soon-to-be-opened Hard Rock Hotel. He will also be marketing the division’s first international motion-picture-themed attraction opening this spring.
“As our division continues its rapid growth, Wyman’s vast marketing experience will help build and strengthen the power of the Universal Studios brand on a national and international level,” said Tom Williams, chairman and CEO of Universal Studios. “His understanding and insight into what the consumer needs, in addition to focusing a company to meet those needs, will serve Universal well.” Before joining Universal Studios, Roberts spent seventeen years at Darden Restaurants, Inc., helping turn Red Lobster restaurants into the world’s number one casual seafood dining chain. During that time, he directed all marketing activities—including nearly $100 million in yearly marketing expenditures—for Red Lobster’s seven hundred restaurants, amassing $2 billion in sales. Under Robert’s leadership, Red Lobster enjoyed twelve consecutive quarters of sales growth—significantly outperforming industry standards.
Roberts earned his BS in finance from BYU in 1982 and his MBA from the Marriott School in 1984. He lives in the Orlando area with his wife, Lorene, and three children.
