Ben Thompson

Ben is a Partner and the Chief Strategy Officer at Storyland Studios, a leading experience design firm creating award-winning immersive experiences for clients across the world. With over 25 years of experience in consumer marketing, brand strategy, and themed entertainment, Ben has a passion for bringing stories to life in engaging and inspiring ways.Ben leads Storyland's Strategic Development business, heading up the strategy practice, and managing the relationships with international IP partners, operators, and real estate developers. Ben has a proven track record of launching and growing new businesses and brands, across multiple industries and markets. Prior to Storyland, Ben held executive roles at the Walt Disney Company and Merlin Entertainments, where he was responsible for the roll-out of the LEGOLAND and LEGO® Discovery Centre resorts and attractions, as well as the marketing and sales of Disney's parks, experiences, and products in EMEA. He also founded his own consultancy firm, 9 Degrees West, serving clients such as Mars, Tony's Chocolonely, Europa Park, and the Cataratas Group. Ben holds a BA in History, certifications in storytelling and branding, and is capable in French and Portuguese.