Wilson H. Flohr
A profile of the 2015 Boomer & Shaker.
With hundreds of cyclists, hundreds of thousands of spectators and a world stage watching, Wilson Flohr, 69, is the man who helped steer the dream that filled the streets of metro Richmond for nine days in September. Three years ago, this former marketing manager for Walt Disney World and former president and CEO of Kings Dominion was courted out of retirement to be the unpaid CEO of Richmond 2015. That organization successfully staged the UCI International Road World Championships, bringing international attention to the city.
WHY WAS IT SO IMPORTANT TO YOU AND TO THE COMMUNITY TO COME OUT OF RETIREMENT TO HEAD UP THIS PROJECT?
“I envisioned a platform to showcase the Richmond region and Commonwealth of Virginia to the world and enhance our image of a cultural, contemporary and forward-thinking community. I am proud of broadening our appeal for future talent and proud for the world to view our commitment to a world-class event.”
NOW THAT THE PROJECT IS OVER, WHAT DO YOU THINK IS ITS BIGGEST FUTURE BENEFIT TO THE METRO AREA?
“More regional cooperation and gratitude for our corporate and individual sponsors – and an appreciation for the energy and ability Richmond displayed in making the race such a success.”
WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST ASSETS FOR THE RICHMOND AREA TO DRAW MORE VISITORS?
“Richmond has tremendous assets. We are a community known for our food and restaurants, our outdoor natural recreation opportunities, Kings Dominion and our world-class museums and cultural events.”
WHAT DO YOU THINK MAKES YOU A GOOD LEADER/MOTIVATOR?
“Good leaders and motivators recognize great talent and have the ability to create a team and give that team room to achieve attainable goals and freedom to add each individual’s enriching performance and ideas to the mix.”
WHAT’S THE BEST COMPLIMENT ANYONE HAS EVER GIVEN YOU?
“That I am a team player. I was told this several times when learning how to manage theme parks.”
WHAT’S SOMETHING ABOUT YOU PEOPLE WOULD BE SURPRISED TO KNOW?
“I made my children pick grapes 25 years ago to make wine and test grapes from several geographic locations in Virginia. My idea was to retire and build a winery. It was a good choice. I did not, but joined the board of the Williamsburg Winery to learn the intricacies of making wine.”
Cheryl Miller is celebrating her 31st year as news anchor at WTVR-CBS 6, and is co-host of Virginia This Morning, and hosts the Battle of the Brains high school academic quiz show.
