Pasadena, CA — THG Creative, a themed experience design and production studio, announced today leadership transitions with Erik Neergaard elevating to Chief Executive Officer and Buzz Price Award winner Phil Hettema assuming the role of Founder. The changes for the company, created by the merger of The Hettema Group and Themespace in 2022, underscore the company’s continued global growth and the integral roles both leaders will continue to play in shaping THG Creative’s future.
Erik Neergaard, formerly Chief Creative Officer of THG, will lead the company’s overall business strategy, operations, and client partnerships as CEO and Owner. Over the course of his career, Neergaard has held many senior creative and advisory roles on projects for major global brands and institutions including Universal, DreamWorks, Paramount, Sony, Nickelodeon, and McKinsey & Company, delivering experiences that balance creative ambition with operational success.
Phil Hettema, who previously served as CEO, will remain deeply engaged with the studio as a creative lead, continuing to guide vision, storytelling, and design excellence across projects. A revered figure in themed entertainment with more than four decades of industry leadership, Hettema’s influence and legacy remain foundational to THG Creative’s identity and creative culture.
“These changes reflect not a departure, but a natural evolution,” said Hettema. “THG Creative is built on collaboration, creativity, and trust, and Erik has long been leading from within. I’m excited to continue focusing on creative leadership while supporting Erik as he steers the business forward.”
Since the 2022 merger that formed THG Creative, Neergaard has played a central role behind the scenes in guiding the company’s growth, integrating teams, and strengthening its ability to serve clients worldwide. His new title formally recognizes responsibilities he has effectively been carrying since that time.
“THG Creative has extraordinary talent and an incredible legacy,” said Neergaard. “Phil remains a creative force and a trusted partner. I’m honored to take on this role as we continue to grow, evolve, and deliver exceptional experiences for our clients around the world.”
Based in Pasadena, California, THG Creative is an independent creative agency specializing in immersive storytelling and experience design for theme parks, museums, cultural institutions, destinations, and global brands. The studio works with leading clients including The National WWII Museum, The Children’s Museum of Manhattan, Universal Creative, Walt Disney Imagineering, DreamWorks, Sony, Paramount, and many others.
For more information, visit THGcreative.com.
Media Contact:
Sydney Holt
Senior Marketing Coordinator
studio@thgcreative.com
