Denise Chan
Senior Operations Manager
Water World Ocean Park
Aberdeen, Hong Kong - Hong Kong
Featured in World Waterpark Magazine, May 2026
WHAT IS YOUR EDUCATION AND PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE?
I graduated from the University of Toronto with a Bachelor’s degree in Economics. I have 15 years of experience in the theme park and waterpark industry, spanning entertainment, zoological operations, park integration, and attraction operations.
WHAT CERTIFICATION OR LICENSING DO YOU HAVE?
I hold various international and local certifications in lifeguarding, water quality, health and safety, first aid, and water sports.
WHAT MADE YOU GO INTO THIS FIELD?
Ocean Park and Water World are unique in Hong Kong in terms of the breadth of experiences we offer—mechanical rides, ropeway, animals, water slides, pools, shows, and stunning natural scenery. It is also a great working environment where you learn from many different experts every day. I first joined Ocean Park as an intern supporting Halloween Fest, and from that moment I could not stop exploring how to create fun, safe, memorable experiences for guests.
WHAT ASPECT OF THE WATERPARK INDUSTRY DO YOU LIKE BEST?
To me, simplicity is happiness. There is something universally joyful about sliding down a water slide. Seeing guests—especially families and groups of friends—share that adrenaline, laughter, photos with our colorful inflatable and sense of adventure is the best reward.
WHO HAS MOST INSPIRED YOU IN YOUR CAREER?
I have been fortunate to learn from many great leaders at Ocean Park Corporation. As we approach our 50th Anniversary, I have also worked with leaders who have been with the park from the very beginning. Their passion, resilience, and commitment to our mission have genuinely shaped how I lead and how I view my career and this industry.
WHAT HAS BEEN THE GREATEST CHALLENGE IN YOUR WATERPARK CAREER?
With so many entertainment options in the city, the biggest challenge is continuously raising the bar on guest experience and keeping pace with evolving expectations. For a seasonal attraction in particular, we have to stay fresh, be highly creative, and think beyond the usual playbook, so every visit feels surprising and worth coming back for.
HOW DO YOU KEEP FOCUSED AND MOTIVATED?
Water World is one-of-a-kind in Hong Kong, and the work is always evolving. The opportunity to create new events and experiences keeps me and the team energized. Last season, for example, we launched “Get Splash! Tonight”, giving the city an additional night-time venue for fun. Having room to innovate and seeing guests respond is a huge motivator.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE SOMEONE WHO IS INTERESTED IN WORKING IN THE WATERPARK INDUSTRY?
Go for it, join us! It is a career that blends safety, service, teamwork, and creativity. And honestly, on a hot summer day, it is hard to beat coming to work in shorts and flip-flops, ready to bring people together for a great day in the water.
WHAT BOOKS OR PUBLICATIONS DO YOU RELY ON MOST FOR INSPIRATION OR MOTIVATION?
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey has long been a guidebook for me.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF YOUR JOB?
Two things. First, the people—theme park and waterpark teams have a genuine “inner child,” and that playfulness helps us keep experiences fun while staying professional.
Second, the setting—Water World features a series of terraced platforms along the hillside facing the South China Sea, which creates a uniquely relaxed and uplifting environment.
WHAT CAREER OR BUSINESS WOULD YOU CONSIDER IF YOU WERE STARTING ALL OVER AGAIN?
If I was starting over again, I would spend more time developing my skills in indoor surfing. Our Surf Striker is Hong Kong’s first-ever surf simulator, and I really admire how our professional surf coaches are building a unique indoor surfing culture and community in the city. And who knows—maybe it is not too late. Let’s ride the waves together.
HOW DID YOU FIRST GET INVOLVED WITH THE WWA?
I became a part of WWA in 2024 and participated in my first WWA Show in Las Vegas. I have been looking for occasions to introduce WWA to other Aquatic facilities in Hong Kong and the region.
WHAT IS SOMETHING INTERESTING ABOUT YOU THAT FEW KNOW OR WOULD GUESS?
I was at one point a Giant Panda keeper in the zoological team and this experience was unique. Looking at the twin panda cubs grow day by day was very gratifying. •