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Rising Stars: Meet Tony Moore of Downtown Dallas

Today we’d like to introduce you to Tony Moore.

Hi Tony, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
While in college, I started in the attractions business working as a part-time employee at Seaworld. Orlando. From there, I was quickly promoted into different management roles of increasing responsibilities. I was fortunate to have worked for some of the top attraction brands, including Discovery Cove, Aquatica Water Park, and Universal Studios. I then had my first experience working in the non-profit sector serving as the COO for Zoo Tampa and later moving to Tulsa as the founding CEO and Executive Director for Gathering Place, Tula’s Riverfront Park. I now have the honor of leading a one-of-a-kind, 250-arcre, public park development in Dallas, called Harold Simmons Park.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Life is filled with bumps, even when traveling on a smooth road; But for me, I have to say that it has been a fun ride thus far. The fun component of my industry led me to see and witness some very cool experiences. I have also met some very cool individuals along the way. If I were to list some of the challenges I faced, I would say it’s the time-consumption needed to be effectively present and engaged. Relocation has also taken its fair toll on family in moving and adjusting to new cities.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
There is a common spirit of entrepreneurism in all that we do. Good leaders, regardless of the sector, have to think like owners in looking out for the best interest of their organization. Whether you are running a multi-million dollar paid attraction, or a multi-million dollar non-profit, you always have the task of attracting visitors, ensuring they have a safe and enjoy a memorable experience at your facility; and by the way, they must be willing to return again. There is a lot of nuances wrapped up in those objectives when you are able to do them right. With that said. for me, experience has taught me well and allowed me to operate with a sense of humble excellence. I guess over the years, I have become somewhat known for thinking outside the box and in being innovative by thought. I have had the opportunity of working for some very cool owners and stakeholders and I am constantly challenged to bring my A-game in representing their interests as well as in exceeding their expectations.

What does success mean to you?
Success is not always a tangible goal. Success for me is a duel feeling of accomplishment. First is an internal and deeply personal emotion when you know you have delivered; it’s that feeling you get when you know you nailed-it. But even greater is the gratification you feel when your end-user love what you have produced as well as when your owners are very pleased with your performance.

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