Ryan Tiffin, an Orlando-based author and guest-experience leader, will co-present a session at IAAPA Expo 2026 titled "Leading Before the Title: Building Trust, Influence, and Impact" on Tuesday, November 17, 2026. The session, held from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. Eastern in Room W303ABC at the Orange County Convention Center, will explore how professionals can develop influence without formal authority. Tiffin's journey from IAAPA mentee in January 2024 to Expo speaker underscores the value of mentorship and continuous development in the attractions industry.
The session, co-presented with Joseph Shepard, Finance & Development Manager at Time Mission, will focus on practical behaviors such as taking ownership, communicating clearly, following through, and building trust with colleagues and managers. Participants will also develop a personal leadership action plan to implement within their teams. This emphasis on everyday leadership is critical for attractions professionals, as it directly impacts both employee experience and guest service quality.
Tiffin's book, Chasing Magic: How Experience Changes Lives and Shapes Leaders, recounts his mentorship experience and his work at Cinemark, where he earned credibility by understanding timing, clarity, and operational demands. He writes, "Leadership is not about being impressive. It is about being dependable." This philosophy resonates with the session's goal: to help emerging leaders recognize their influence and lead effectively from any position. The session promises to provide actionable insights for those looking to make a difference in their organizations.
For attractions industry professionals, the implications are significant. Leadership without a title fosters a culture of trust and accountability, which can lead to higher employee engagement and better guest experiences. As the industry continues to evolve, developing leaders at all levels becomes essential for innovation and resilience. Tiffin's transition from mentee to speaker exemplifies how IAAPA's programs nurture talent and give back to the community.
Those interested in attending the session can find more information and register through the IAAPA Expo planning page for Leading Before the Title: Building Trust, Influence, and Impact. Additional details about Tiffin's work and his book are available at visit ryantiffin.com. The expo provides a platform for professionals to gain insights and network, further strengthening the global attractions community.
