Big Bus Tours names Paul Stoneham as next Chief Executive Officer

He's tasked with growing its global presence

Big Bus Tours, the world’s largest operator of open-top sightseeing tours, has appointed Paul Stoneham as chief executive Officer.

He will take up the position in January next year as the firm plans to expand into new destinations and broaden its portfolio of services.

Stoneham will succeed Pat Waterman, who after more than 25 years with the company, will transition to non-executive chairman of the Big Bus Tours Group Board of Directors. 

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

Stoneham joins from Life Fitness, a US-based leader in commercial fitness equipment that many gyms in the UK, and has served as CEO to three other international businesses including Boots Healthcare International, hair styling tools brand ghd, and Norwegian clothing retailer and sports equipment manufacturer.

Previously he has also held international leadership roles in brand, category, and general management at Procter & Gamble, Alberto-Culver, and Colgate-Palmolive.

Stoneham, incoming CEO, 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," he said.

“I’m excited to work alongside Pat Waterman, Exponent, the Board, and the wider team as we shape the next stage of growth – creating experiences that don’t just show cities but invite people to discover them.”

Waterman, outgoing CEO and new non-executive chairman of the Board, said: “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.” 

In recent years, 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.