The Needles Landmark Attraction is paying tribute to General Manager Marino Zanti who is set to retire next month following a remarkable career spanning almost 40 years at one of the Isle of Wight’s best-known visitor destinations.
Marino joined the business in February 1987 and has seen The Needles evolve through significant change, investment and growth. Progressing from operations to Duty Manager and ultimately General Manager, he has helped shape the attraction with an enduring commitment to its success.
Among his proudest achievements has been the close partnership working he has fostered across the island both as Director of Visit Isle of Wight and alongside The Needles with the National Trust and National Farmers’ Union as well as the development of Sandham Gardens in Sandown.
He has also welcomed countless celebrities and TV crews to celebrate the Needles and was involved in welcoming the Olympic Torch travelling through the Isle of Wight in July 2012.
Not only has he helped shape the attraction but has contributed to the development of the Heritage GB group with the introduction of group wide initiatives in procuring national supply chains and sustainably led contracts across the UK.
Marino said:
“It has been a privilege to be part of The Needles for so many years. I have seen enormous change, and I am especially proud of the success we have achieved.
“The support, direction and encouragement I have received from Heritage GB has been tremendous. Having the confidence to make decisions and the investment to pursue opportunities has made all the difference.”
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Allan Leech, CEO said:
“Marino has made an exceptional contribution to The Needles. His loyalty, leadership and commercial expertise have helped the attraction thrive through decades of change.
“We thank him sincerely for his dedication and wish him every happiness in the future.” Marino gave more than a year’s notice of his decision to retire, supporting a carefully planned handover. Neil Sykes is due to join as the new General Manager on 1 December 2026.
