ORLANDO, Fla. — SeaWorld Entertainment on Thursday named a new CEO as the company struggles with declining attendance and controversy over its killer whales.

Joel Manby, who most recently ran the company behind Tennessee destination Dollywood, will start April 7.

“I am honored to be selected as SeaWorld Entertainment’s new CEO,” Manby said in a statement. “This company has tremendous brands, and for more than 50 years, families have come to our parks to learn about animals, have fun and be entertained.”

He comes aboard just as the company begins a long-term marketing campaign, starting April 1, that will focus on consumers ambivalent about SeaWorld.

Public relations crises have hounded the company since the orca Tilikum killed trainer Dawn Brancheau in Orlando in 2010 and escalated after the 2013 documentary “Blackfish” criticized SeaWorld for its treatment of captive killer whales.

Jim Atchison stepped down as CEO in January amid the troubles.

Manby will earn a base salary of $1 million, according to his employment agreement dated March 16. His annual bonus will be no less than 150 percent of his annual salary, and he received stock options.