Hosted by Navier, this session shows how AI and advanced virtual modeling are transforming yacht design and construction. Discover how designers, shipyards, and owners collaborate more effectively, improve accuracy, and plan sustainable, luxurious vessels - from superyachts to experimental craft - while pushing the boundaries of innovation and performance.

Navier - Intelligent design: How AI and advanced simulation are transforming yacht creation

Business Development Coordinator & Technical Project Manager

Cindy is the CEO and Founder of Floatist, a software company helping fleet operators around the world. With her skills as software engineer, her 5+ years of experience as a skipper and her vision for Floatist she set out to solve the many challenges yacht charter operators face on a day to day basis.

Co-Founder / CEO

Suzanne Blaustone initiated her manufacturing career in Chicago in the 1980s and was among the first women selling hotroll steel bar direct to US forging operations, before moving into chemical coatings in 1991 for automotive, electronics and general industrial sectors.  
Arriving in the UK in 1997, she expanded international sales for US exporters of polyurethane coatings and intermediates before transitioning to the role of CEO at Barton Marine Equipment in 2014. 
In 2020, she expanded Barton’s sales impact when opening Barton US LLC in the state of Virginia to supply Barton equipment in North America.  
Suzanne remains passionate about the growth of manufacturing sectors in the UK and EU and focusses on sales expansion through product innovation, exporting, business partnering and optimising distribution networks.

Chief Executive Officer

Marina Palumbo Cardella is Project and Policy Officer at the European Boating Industry (EBI), where she leads work on circular economy and sustainability across the recreational boating sector. Her activities focus on key topics such as end-of-life management of boats, the recycling and reuse of composite materials, and the development of circular business models within the industry. She follows EBI’s work in relevant expert groups and EU-funded projects, including initiatives that promote green skills, new materials and sustainable practices in boatbuilding. Being a sailor herself, and passionate about the maritime industry and European cooperation, Marina works to strengthen the sector’s voice in EU policymaking and foster collaboration across industry and institutions.

Project and Policy Officer

Peter Wallbank is the Co-Founder and Technical Director of August Race Group, a UK-based manufacturer of premium marine surface-care and protection systems established in 2013. With nearly three decades of experience in the chemical industry, he specialises in bespoke formulation development for high-performance and environmentally responsible cleaning technologies.
Peter is an active Member of the Nautical Institute and serves on the ICOMIA Sustainability Committee, contributing to international dialogue on sustainable product standards and responsible practices within the global leisure marine sector.

Co Founder and Group Technical Director

Amy has worked in Sustainability in Sport with a primary focus on the sailing industry. Having had both inhouse and consultancy roles including being a driving force in the IMOCA Class LCA project as part of 11th Hour Racing Team. She is now focussed on her work as part of consultancy Foxall Munro, a transatlantic team who advocate for bold visions of the future and the paradigm shifts that are needed to get there. They are solution-oriented, and action-driven co-creators who use cultural levers and human togetherness to create positive impact.

Director, Foxall Munro & Sustainability Commission Advisor, World Sailing

Gerben Visser is the Founder and CEO of Aquator Marine, a company that builds software for the yachting world. Having spent years around boats, both racing and cruising, Gerben saw how much the industry could benefit from better digital tools. Today, Aquator Marine helps yacht managers, shipyards, and owners simplify day-to-day operations through modern, intuitive technology. Gerben is passionate about bringing innovation, transparency, and efficiency to an industry that still runs largely on spreadsheets and emails.

President IEMA

Having grown up by the Mediterranean Sea, Guillaume has always been an avid sailor, enjoying both competitive sailing and holiday trips with his children and wife on the family sailboat. After studying business administration in Europe, the US and Japan, he joined the Ford Motor Company where he held positions in Sales, Finance, Marketing and Business Development in Europe, Latin America and Asia Pacific, managing teams globally. He then founded his own consulting firms, first in New Caledonia and then in Switzerland, with a focus on business development and restructuring businesses across a variety of industries, including cleantech and waste management. His passion for sailing, his extensive network in the nautical industry, and his awareness of the lack of a viable solution for recycling the fiberglass hulls of end-of-life sailboats led him to co-found Composite Recycling in 2021.

Co-Founder

Brian Benedict is the founder of WIF-Pro, creator of an innovative Water-in-Fuel Detection and Alert System and an ABYC-compliant gasoline clear bowl fuel filter assembly - the first of its kind. A South Florida native, lifelong boater, and Duke University graduate, Brian’s passion for boating led him to develop WIF-Pro after a 2020 family vacation was cut short when his boat suffered water-in-fuel contamination.
Discovering no reliable solutions - and that traditional options like the RACOR WIF sensors were no longer recommended for use in gasoline applications - he set out to engineer a better system. After four years of development, WIF-Pro launched to industry acclaim, earning IBEX Innovation Awards in 2023 and 2024 and the 2025 NMEA Technology Product Award for advancing marine safety and reliability.

Founder

Gary Reich is the editor-in-chief of Soundings Trade Only. A former liveaboard sailor, he has worked in the marine industry for 35 years, with 25 years spent in marine publishing for titles such as Waterway Guide, Soundings magazine, Anglers Journal, Power & Motoryacht and others. He lives in Annapolis, Md., the "sailing capital" of the United States.

Editor-in-Chief

Editorial Director

Frank Hugelmeyer is president and CEO of the National Marine Manufacturers Association, the leading trade group for recreational boating and the largest producer of boat shows in North America. He’s the board chair and a founding member of the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable, the Washington D.C.-based coalition of America’s leading outdoor recreation trade organizations, and vice-chair of the International Council of Marine Industry Associations.
Frank has more than 35 years of senior executive experience in the global sporting goods, outdoor recreation, and association management sectors. He’s worked as the chief executive at three of America’s most influential outdoor trade groups and as an executive for leading manufacturers and NYC’s oldest sporting goods retailer.
Prior to joining NMMA in 2019, Frank was president at RV Industry Association and Go RVing. Before that, he was the longtime CEO of Outdoor Industry Association where he led the renowned campaign that defined the economic importance of the $1 trillion outdoor recreation industry for the first time in our nation’s history. He’s also known for joining forces with Utah Governor, Gary Herbert, to establish the country’s first state office of outdoor recreation.
His unique career journey has enabled him to collaborate with the world’s leading outdoor public companies, consumer brands and retailers, a list that includes Nike, VF, Patagonia, Bass Pro, REI, Thor Industries and Winnebago, along with pinnacle marine brands like Brunswick, Yamaha, Polaris among many others.

President and CEO

“There is nothing, absolutely nothing, half so much worth doing as simply messing about in boats.” Ratty’s words from The Wind in the Willows capture the heartbeat of our next panelist. Growing up on the water, he turned a childhood spent exploring marinas in a jon boat into a lifelong passion, some might say an obsession, for everything marine. After launching into a successful career in real estate and entrepreneurship, he followed a mid-life epiphany and transformed those skills into a dream career in the Marine Industry spanning nearly 30 years. When he’s not studying the lines of yachts or walking the docks, he’s an adventure seeker, world traveler, and devoted father navigating the joyful chaos of raising two children.

Head of Industry Sales and Partnerships

Senior Naval Architect & Head of Strategic Development Maritime Hydrodynamics at RISE Maritime (Research Institutes of Sweden Maritime department. 
100% beliver in foiling technology will revolutionize the industry of maritime transportation and recreational boating.

Naval Architect / Head of Strategic Development Maritime Hydrodynamics

Head of Vessels

COO and Founder

Born in 1961, Mario Caponnetto is a naval architect and fluids dynamicist whose life has been shaped by his love for the sea. A former international regatta winner, he pursued Naval Engineering at the University of Genova, later becoming a researcher and lecturer in hydrodynamics and CFD. His career spans over 30 years of high-level design work for shipyards and 10 America’s Cup campaigns, earning two victories with Oracle Team USA, a Louis Vuitton Cup and a Prada Cup. In 2016, he co-founded Caponnetto-Hueber SL in Valencia, today a global reference in CFD and performance innovation.

Engineer

Fabrizio Marabini is an aerospace engineer with more than thirty years of experience in performance technology and high-level sailing projects. After graduating from Politecnico di Milano, he began his career in aeronautics and later joined several America’s Cup teams, including Il Moro di Venezia, Prada Challenge, Mascalzone Latino, Artemis Racing, Emirates Team New Zealand, and Luna Rossa Challenge. Over the years, his work has focused on performance analysis, load monitoring, software development and onboard electronics, following the evolution of sailing from conventional yachts to modern foiling boats.
In 2011 he co-founded FaRo Advanced Systems, a company specialized in instrumentation and control systems for racing sailboats. With the growing relevance of foiling, FaRo has extended its work to both sailing and motor applications, developing integrated mechatronic systems spanning from sensors engineering to data acquisition, from PLC programming to automatic control.
Fabrizio’s experience lies at the intersection of engineering and competition, where innovation is driven by practical needs and constant testing. His perspective connects the technological advances achieved in top-level racing with their potential use in broader marine contexts — exploring not only what can be transferred from racing to production, but also what remains specific to the competitive environment.

Managing Director

Director of Vessev USA

Since 2019 I head the dedicated global Crestron Marine department. From this department Crestron works with the dealers active in this space as well as oversees the contacts with all other parties involved in the marine and superyachting space.
During my study I already worked with AV equipment for live events and entertainment, and from there I got involved with Crestron products and technology already very early in my professional career. Being always curious and in love with technologies this triggered me to start working with these solutions in all kinds of applications.  
After spending some years at Crestron in different positions I am now dedicating all my efforts on leading the Crestron Marine department. This gives me the opportunity to use my experience and skills to further develop this truly inspiring market. Superyachts are the pinnacle of technology, and this industry has the unique possibility to really drive innovations.

Director

Director | Naval Architect

Pia Lou Velema is the officer for New Projects and Partnerships at the Water Revolution Foundation. With a background in climate law, governance, and sustainable development diplomacy, she focuses on driving collaborative initiatives that accelerate the maritime sector’s transition towards environmentally just practices.

Torsten Steinbrecher, Founder and CEO of Qualtron was born in Berlin in 1964. Torsten is married with one son to Jenny Steinbrecher, who also plays an important role in Qualtron as Managing Director.
Throughout his extensive career Torsten has enjoyed management roles in some of the biggest names in the industry. His passion, flair and attention to detail inspires his dedicated team to meet the challenges of the Marine AV market, where ultra-high net worth individuals demand the highest standards of performance and aesthetic appeal.
His technical prowess, tact and discretion make him an ideal partner in complex projects, where bespoke solutions are required. Torsten’s visionary approach merges technical expertise with an appreciation for aesthetics empowering him to meet or exceed the high expectations of his clientele.
The growing market for private cinema on board yachts brings unique opportunities to excel. Sophisticated technologies meet interior design to create the perfect AV solution in the most challenging environment. Torsten’s commitment to bringing the owner’s vision to life, leads his team to achieve the highest standards, where excellence comes as standard.
Hobbies and interests include sailing and diving in the crystal-clear waters of the Baltic Sea. He is also a member of the Lions Club International, supporting community projects and causes.

Founder & Managing Partner

Rowan Gyde, co-founder of 'Aotearoa Ocean Racing', New Zealand's newest national sports team, taking on The Ocean Race 2027 and Director of Kaha Marine, specialist commercial strategy consultancy for marine companies.

Co Founder

Founder and CEO of Boatscribe, a global yacht rental metasearch engine, and FleetRank, a fleet analytics and dynamic pricing platform. His work bridges technology and yachting, helping the industry become more transparent and efficient.

Founder & CEO at Boatscribe

Áine Denari serves as Executive Vice President and President of Navico Group, and Chief Technology Officer for Brunswick Corporation, dual roles that she has held since 2024. Her Navico Group responsibilities include leading numerous industry-leading brands that serve the marine, RV, specialty vehicle and industrial markets. Some of the many brands that make up Navico Group include: Attwood, B&G, Blue Sea Systems, C-MAP, Lenco, Lowrance, Mastervolt, RELiON, Simrad and Whale. In her CTO role, she is responsible for advancing Brunswick’s technology strategy, including ACES, Boating Intelligence and maintaining Brunswick’s position of technology leadership in the marine industry.
Denari was previously President, Brunswick Boat Group from 2020 to 2024, where she had responsibility for the largest global boat portfolio in the recreational marine industry, which consists of 18 boat brands globally.
Prior to joining Brunswick, Áine spent 25 years in a variety of executive positions within the automotive and industrial industries, as well as in leadership positions at major global consulting firms.  From 2014 to 2020, Áine was Senior Vice President at ZF AG, a global automotive Tier 1 supplier, where she most recently led the Automated Driving / Advanced Driver Assistance Systems business. Previously, Áine worked in strategy consulting in Europe and the US with consulting firms McKinsey & Company and Bain & Company, and spent time in various engineering and strategy roles with Ford Motor Company and Ingersoll Rand.
Outside of her role at Brunswick, Áine currently serves on the Board of Directors of Masco Corporation, a global manufacturer of products for the home improvement and new home construction markets; Áine is also an NMMA Executive board member.
Áine holds an MBA from Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University, completed the Stanford Executive Program, holds Advanced Engineering degrees from Purdue University and University of Detroit Mercy, and a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from University College in Dublin in Ireland.

President, Navico Group and Brunswick Chief Technology Officer

JEC Group is a non-profit organization entirely dedicated to promoting composite materials and fostering their applications globally.
Publisher of the JEC Composites Magazine, the industry’s reference magazine, JEC organizes several events around the world, including JEC World, the leading international exhibition dedicated to composites and their applications, which takes place annually in Paris. JEC media, events and digital channels connect a global community of professionals from the composites industry and beyond, to enable knowledge transfer, create networking opportunities, and highlight innovation.

President

Technical Director

Jaime has held the role at World Sailing, since January 2020. He leads the organisation’s work on equipment regulation, measurement and certification, and offshore safety and standards worldwide.
Throughout his tenure, Jaime has championed innovation and fairness in sailing by introducing advanced technologies such as 3D scanning of foils to ensure that races are determined on the water rather than in the boat-park. He has also overseen the expansion of self-certification programmes for sails, and the implementation of a Universal Measurement System, aimed at reducing cost barriers and improving global consistency for sailors and manufacturers alike. With a strong focus on technical integrity, sustainability and a level playing field, Jaime brings a wealth of experience to discussions on equipment rules, class management and offshore standards.

Director of Technical & Offshore

Tal Duvdevany is a technology executive and entrepreneur with over two decades of experience bridging semiconductors, AI, and advanced sensing technologies. He began his career as a Naval Officer , where he developed a lifelong connection to the sea and marine operations.
Before founding WATCHIT.ai, Tal held senior leadership roles at KLA and NOVA, two global leaders in semiconductor process control and metrology. Over the years, he advanced from hands-on engineering to global sales and business management, leading multidisciplinary teams, complex operations, and large-scale commercial growth across international markets.
Today, as CEO and Co-Founder of WATCHIT.ai, Tal brings his deep technical expertise and business acumen to the marine world, pioneering the integration of AI, sensor fusion, and intelligent automation to make boating safer and smarter.

CEO & Co-Founder

Peter Byford is the Chief Technical Officer at RAD Propulsion, where he leads all technical aspects of product development and oversees the execution of complex engineering projects.
Since joining RAD, Peter has played a key role in the design and development of the company’s full range of innovative electric propulsion systems, helping to position RAD at the forefront of sustainable marine technology.
Prior to joining RAD Propulsion, Peter was Head of Electrical Systems at L3Harris Technologies, where he led the design and delivery of advanced marine robotic systems. Earlier in his career, he gained extensive experience in the automotive sector, working with several major OEMs and race teams. He also spent over a decade in web development and online database systems, delivering digital solutions for blue-chip clients.
Peter holds a first-class degree in Automotive Engineering and brings a combination of technical depth, cross-industry experience, and leadership to his role.
https://brandfolder.com/s/tzksggvms7c5vrmq84q795x

CTO at RAD Propulsion

Jarrod Seymour brings over 26 years of experience at Garmin, spanning multiple product segments including outdoor, automotive and marine. 
With a strong foundation in both electrical and software engineering, he has led product design teams for more than 20 years. Jarrod has played a pivotal role in Garmin’s marine segment since 2013 and was named Marine Business Segment Leader in 2018. Driven by a genuine passion for marine electronics both personally and professionally, Jarrod’s leadership fuels ongoing innovation and strategic growth within Garmin’s marine business.

Garmin Vice President and Marine Segment Leader

Kevin M. Williams is a dynamic leader in the recreational boating industry, driving innovative B2B and B2C marketing strategies as the Vice President of North American Marketing for the National Marine Manufacturers Association and the Discover Boating consumer brand across the U.S. and Canada. He leads the development of cutting-edge, data-driven campaigns that meet the evolving needs of both consumers and businesses. Kevin plays a pivotal role in expanding the boating sector by empowering association members and forging deeper emotional connections with traditional, next-generation, and diverse consumer segments, all while promoting the vibrant boating lifestyle.
A passionate advocate for inclusivity, Kevin also serves as a board member for Together Outdoors, where he champions efforts to make recreational activities more welcoming to all communities.
Before joining NMMA, Kevin was the Head of Multicultural Marketing and Diversity & Inclusion for BMW of North America, LLC., where he spearheaded campaigns for BMW, MINI Cooper, and BMW Motorrad, while leading diversity initiatives that advanced the company’s supplier diversity and HR strategies. His earlier experience as Executive Vice President at Matlock Advertising & PR saw him elevate BMW’s multicultural marketing efforts and play a key role in securing and managing the MINI USA account.
Kevin's expertise in cultural marketing also includes his tenure at GlobalHue, the largest multicultural agency in the U.S. at the time, where he crafted impactful strategies for clients like Bermuda Tourism and secured a $30 million investment from Verizon Wireless to launch the “How Sweet the Sound” gospel music tour.
Rooted in a lifelong fascination with brand strategy, Kevin’s career began after earning a bachelor’s degree in marketing from the University of Illinois, Champaign. His early roles at Eastern Airlines and Coca-Cola, where he helped brand Olympic Games properties, laid the foundation for his future marketing leadership.

Vice President, North American Marketing

Robert Newsome is the Chief Administrative Officer and Senior Vice President of Operations for the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA), responsible for overall organizational operations, alignment of strategy in support of the recreational marine industry, membership and member engagement, human resources, technology, the Marine Industry Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI) program, and product certification (NMMA Certified) programs for boats, yachts, PWC, marine oils and boat trailers.
Robert is the past Chairperson of the National Safe Boating Council, serves on the Board of Directors of the American Boat & Yacht Council (ABYC) and the Water Sports Industry Association (WSIA), and on the National Safe Boating Advisory Committee (NBSAC) by appointment of the Secretary of Homeland Security.  He has extensive experience in representing the marine industry in standards development and safety issues through numerous committees of ABYC, the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), and the International Organization for Standardization (ISO)
Robert has authored and presented on numerous industry, economic, boating experience and safety topics prevalent to today’s recreational marine industry, and serves as a spokesperson for the Discover Boating program.  He holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Bradley University, and a Master of Business Administration degree from the University of Notre Dame.  Today, he continues his education on operational and technology strategic excellence at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). 
Robert is an avid power boater, fisherman and a life-long sailor on Lake Michigan and the lakes of the Midwest.

Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) & Senior Vice President of Operations

Yacht designer and Founder

Electronic Engineer and MBA, cofounder of Videoworks and Itworks; dealing with innovation projects about AI (ML/generative), UX and SDN

CEO/CTO

Christian Bolinger, BEng. (Hons), born in 1971, Managing Director of List General Contractor.  
After earning his Bachelor’s degree in Engineering with a focus on Yacht and Powercraft Design in England, the Swiss citizen began his professional career in 1997 by establishing his own engineering and design consultancy, specializing in the design of ships and yachts. In 2010, he advanced to become Managing Director of a Dutch shipyard.  
In 2016, Christian joined List General Contractor GmbH as Head of Sales & Service, where he played a key role in successfully completing numerous yacht and residential projects. Since November 2020, he has been a member of the company's executive board, overseeing Sales, Marketing, Manufacturing, and Project Calculation.  
Christian is also Managing Director of Cohrs Werkstätten GmbH and Riederle Werkstätten GmbH, both of which are subsidiary companies of List General Contractor.

Jennifer Johnston Smith is the Commercial Director and co-founder of SHADOWCAT, the premier bespoke-only developer of award-winning Yacht Support Vessels. She has been instrumental in shaping the SHADOWCAT platform around a philosophy of flexibility of purpose, enabling each vessel to serve exploration, science, and conservation as effectively as luxury support.
She helped conceive Sustain, an early concept for sustainable, purpose-driven operations at sea, and continues to lead innovations such as SHADOWCAT’s latest designs featuring dual helipads, full hangar facilities, and accommodation for up to 26 mission personnel. A recognized advocate for sustainable yachting, Jennifer collaborates with global organizations to align private yachting with marine research and environmental advancement.

Commercial Director

Clarissa Androsoni is an accomplished business development leader and strategist in the superyacht interiors sector. Based in Hamburg, she serves as Business Development Director at Winkels Yacht Interiors, a division of Winkels Interior Design Exhibition GmbH, where she bridges shipyards, designers, and owner representatives across Europe. With over fifteen years of international experience spanning technical outfitting, production management, and client relations, Clarissa is known for her ability to merge German precision with Italian creativity and a forward-thinking commercial mindset.
She is the founder of the Smart Interiors Horizon (SIH) committee under the Water Revolution Foundation, driving sustainability and innovation in yacht and luxury interiors through research, partnerships, and education. Beyond her corporate role, she also founded Clarissa Androsoni Consulting, advising shipyards and interior stakeholders on complex projects and sustainable value creation.
Clarissa’s work sits at the intersection of design, manufacturing, interior processes, and strategy. Her current projects include developing multi-stakeholder initiatives for circular interiors and launching new ventures in sustainable owner-supply products. Highly active on the international yacht circuit, she combines deep technical understanding with an entrepreneurial vision dedicated to shaping a more conscious future for luxury craftsmanship.

Business Development Director, Winkels Yacht Interior

Sylvie Ernoult – Show Director, Cannes Yachting Festival Celebrating her final year leading one of the world’s premier yachting showcases, Sylvie has shaped the international stage for luxury and performance brands.

Show Director

Thins 30 years extrem sailor, thins 2003 IMOCA Open60 Skipper, two times Vendee Globe, several more extrem sailing projects and thins 2009 company owner to develop composite materials which are fully sustainable and recyclabel.

With a career built at the intersection of technical expertise and commercial leadership, Philip Aikenhead has spent more than a decade helping companies push the boundaries of advanced composite construction. As Gurit’s Head of Sales for EMEA, he leads regional growth and guides customers through complex technical challenges.
His background ranges from managing marine sector sales and advising on composite applications to building components for elite racing teams. This blend of practical, hands-on experience and strategic sales leadership gives Philip a unique perspective on both the technical and business sides of the industry.

Head of Sales

With deep expertise in marine propulsion and vibration control, Gian Piero brings a wealth of experience in improving onboard comfort and efficiency. He’ll share insights on how innovation in mechanical systems can support the transition to quieter, cleaner, and more efficient electric vessels.

Henrietta Roslund is the CEO and Co-Founder of MOXSEA, the leading whitelabel SaaS platform engineered specifically for boat clubs and boat-sharing businesses. Her vision for MOXSEA was sparked by her own hands-on experience running a boat club in Mallorca. She founded the company to simplify complex operations and drive a more efficient, accessible, and sustainable future for the nautical industry.
Beyond MOXSEA's growth, Henrietta is a prominent voice shaping her personal brand as a female leader in the marine sector. She leverages authentic storytelling and education to spotlight the enormous opportunities within boat sharing, from evolving ownership models to the substantial environmental and community value it delivers. Through her writing, public speaking, and industry engagement, she is a passionate advocate for greater inclusion, innovation, and transparency in the marine space.

Ellen Bradley serves as Chief Brand Officer and Senior Vice President of Marketing and Communications for the National Marine Manufacturers Association, the leading trade group for recreational boat, marine engine and accessory manufacturers in the U.S. who drive more than $230 billion in annual economic impact and support an estimated 100 million Americans who go boating each year.
 Ellen is responsible for the NMMA brand, deploying marketing and communications strategies that continuously elevate the association’s voice and reputation as the leader in connecting the recreational boating industry with policy makers, boating consumers and stakeholders.
 Ellen oversees NMMA’s market expansion work through Discover Boating, helping welcome more people to enjoy the benefits of life on the water and fueling a commitment for doing so in an increasingly sustainable way. Recently, Ellen led the team in revitalizing the industry’s Discover Boating brand with a new visual identity and omni-channel strategy, resulting in the launch of the successful “See You Out Here” campaign, attracting more than 6 million next generation and current boaters to the Discover Boating community and connecting nearly 2 million of them with boat manufacturers and dealers to explore boat ownership. In under two years, the new strategy resulted in Discover Boating moving from a $6-7 million six-month marketing campaign to a year-round brand experience valued at nearly $30 million. In 2024, Ellen and her team were the architects behind the global marine industry’s Propelling Our Future education campaign on behalf of more than 50 marine industry trade associations worldwide. The campaign harmonized global boating industry stakeholders, bringing one voice and successfully educating policy makers and boating consumers on the portfolio of propulsion technologies shaping the industry’s ongoing commitment to sustainability.
 Additionally, Ellen leads NMMA Business Intelligence, the association’s strategic data science and research that powers the industry’s most comprehensive insights. As the hub for industry, consumer and economic data and trends, NMMA Business Intelligence shapes some of the most important decisions in recreational boating. Prior to becoming Chief Brand Officer, Ellen rose within NMMA from Vice President of Marketing Communications to Chief Communications Officer. Ellen took on these roles after joining NMMA from Harpo, Inc., where she drove communications for Oprah Winfrey’s entertainment properties and foundation. Earlier in her career she held strategic communications and brand marketing positions on both the agency and client-side including representing entertainment and consumer brands, government agencies, and trade associations spanning Hilton Hotels, the National Cattleman’s Beef Association, Coca-Cola, Manatt, Phelps & Phillips, LLP, and the U.S. Department of the Treasury, Bureau of Engraving and Printing. 
Ellen has been recognized by PRWeek as a Woman of Distinction (2024), Boating Industry Magazine Woman Making Waves (2019), Boating Industry Magazine 40 Under 40 (2007, 2017) and Association Forum, 40 under 40 (2015). She currently serves on the boards of directors for the Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation and Chicago-based A Giving Heart Foundation and is a member of Step-Up Women’s Network, a non-profit mentoring program for young girls. Ellen graduated from the University of Missouri-Columbia with a Bachelor of Journalism. She lives in Chicago with her husband and two children and can be found boating on Lake Michigan during the city’s beloved summer months and going for long runs along its beautiful lakefront trails.

Chief Brand Officer and Senior Vice President of Marketing and Communications

After initially starting his career in project freight forwarding aged 18, Kim Hollamby soon switched to the marine industry by joining a motor boating magazine, inspired by his family’s connections to boating. His next career step was to become part of the start-up team for a new title called Motor Boats Monthly. He became its editor three years later, a role he held for 11 years. 
 
Kim was invited to take on Group Editorship for the globally renowned business to business publication International Boat Industry and publisher for the marine portal ybw.com before serving as digital director for IPC/Time Warner in the UK. There he became responsible for the development of more than 70 websites for the company’s brands including Yachting World, Practical Boat Owner and Motor Boat & Yachting. 
 
After a few years working away as a company director in the education and information technology sectors, Kim returned to his first passion. Today his partnership business serves in several capacities for small and large marine companies around the world, including people and business development, marketing, communications and events. Kim spearheaded several initiatives to encourage participation in boating for his national marine trade association and currently serves on the committee of the British Marine Trades Association. 
 
As keen boating participants, Kim and his wife have owned everything from small sailing dinghies and kayaks to 14m motor yachts, including two Dutch built steel motor cruisers. In 1999 Kim undertook a 4500-mile circumnavigation of the UK with diversions to the Netherlands, Belgium, France and Ireland, calling in 147 harbours over six months.
 
Kim’s relationship with Metstrade dates to the turn of the Century. He collaborates with the show team on several initiatives including the world-renowned DAME Design Awards and IBI Metstrade Boat Builder Awards for Business Achievement. He blogs regularly on the Metstrade portal, plays an active role in the development of Metstrade’s Young Professionals Club and leads the tour programme.

Principal

Victoria is the CEO at The Magenta Project.  Having worked in the sailing and marine industry for nearly 30 years, she has a background in media and communications primarily with sailing campaigns.  In  2019 authored the Strategic Review into Women in Sailing and led the World Sailing Trust before joining The Magenta Project earlier this year.

Emily Caroe is the Communications and Purpose Director for Team Francesca Clapcich Powered by 11th Hour Racing. A PR, communications, and sponsorship expert with over 25 years of experience at agency, rights holder, and brands, Emily leads multinational and multichannel communications campaigns across adventure, sport, and purpose. After leading the comms for a team in the 2017-18 Ocean Race, Emily was inspired to learn more about the power of sport to create positive impact for people and planet.

Communications and Purpose Director

Manager

Jochen grew up at the Ammersee (Lake Ammer), Germany’s sixth largest lake, located southwest of Munich. Sailing dinghies and participating in all types of water sports quickly became some of his main hobbies from an early age.
As a young adult he acquired an engineering degree in wood technology (Dipl. Ing. (Fh)) from the University of Applied Sciences in Rosenheim. To further round out his academic career he achieved a Masters Degree of Science at Oregon State University with a focus on production management and strategic marketing.
With degrees in hand he worked for a good decade as a consultant in the automotive and marine industry for two boutique consulting firms located in Munich. The various and international projects mainly in the field of development, production and quality has truly given him a broad view across industries. His passion for boats and the marine industry lead him to the position of product manager for sailing yachts at Bavaria Yachts. He became VP quality and later SVP product development and global service at Torqeedo, the world leader in electric boat propulsion.
Today Jochen is working as a marine consultant in partnership with Seaman Consultants.

Marine Consultant

With a long experience in strategy and international business development for B2B technical products and equipment, I have the pleasure to promote and market the WATTALPS battery packs since 2022. The unique immersion cooling technology of WATTALPS batteries provides the highest level of safety, enhanced performance and lifetime in various markets like marine, construction, mining, port equipment, heavy trucks, off-highway and racing cars.

Sales & Business Development Director

GM Persico Marine

Nikusia Kooijmans is Marketing and Sales Manager at ONEXP, where she focuses on driving commercial growth and building strong industry relationships.
Alongside her role at ONEXP, she proudly serves as President of Young Professionals in Yachting (YPY) The Netherlands, where she is dedicated to fostering connections, supporting emerging talent, and inspiring the next generation of industry leaders by bringing them together.
Nikusia was honored with the Best Young Sales Professional Award of the Netherlands. With eight years of experience in the yachting industry, she is passionate about expanding her network and encouraging those outside the sector to discover the opportunities and excitement of the yachting world.

Marketing and Sales Manager

Joey Meen is Director of the IAMI GUEST Program and President of the Superyacht Alliance for Professional Standards. With over four decades in the yachting sector, she has shaped global training standards and professional development pathways. Her career includes senior roles with RYA, MCA, and 15 years at the PYA. Joey founded the internationally recognised GUEST Program, now delivered by more than 36 accredited providers worldwide. She continues to champion crew education through industry collaborations, working groups, and global yachting events.

Director IAMI GUEST

A writer, photographer and video presenter with 35 years experience in the superyacht industry, Justin Ratcliffe is known for his professional, no-nonsense journalism that informs the reader while offering genuine insight into the people and processes at hand. He is currently Editor of the technical magazine How to Build It and Associate Editor of Superyacht Times.

Editor How to Build It Magazine

Tim Barnes has more than 40 years of experience in sales and sales management for consumer and professional product companies. The last 18 years have been with Kaleidescape as VP North America Sales for 14 years and the past 4 years as VP International and Marine Sales. Prior to Kaleidescape, Tim spent 23 years in various sales roles at Fuji Photo Film USA, Inc. including VP of Field Sales for professional markets.

VP International & Marine Sales

Project Director/Client Representative

Meg Reilly is a circumnavigator and sustainability leader who blends expertise in communications, leadership, and sport diplomacy to drive global impact. She left her Madison Avenue career to pursue her dream of circumnavigating the globe in the 2013-14 Clipper Round the World Race — and won. Today, she helps international brands, events, governments and NGOs build sustainable strategies and inclusive communities, drawing on her MBA from The Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University. Meg currently serves as the Marketing Chair for the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta, and leads global sustainability projects across the industry with consulting agency Foxall Munro.

Project Development

Andrea Tetto – Director, Marine Business Planning, Yamaha U.S. Marine Business Unit Driving Yamaha’s strategic marine operations, with expertise in market intelligence and operational resilience.

Director Marine Planning

Holding a masters degree in aerospace engineering, Paolo boosts a 20 year experience in the structural design and analysis of advanced composite components. He led projects in a variety of industries, from racing yachts to bridges, from mega yachts to building facades, from under water turbine blades to aerospace components. He always followed the production pahese of his designs, gaining an all round understanding and in depth knowledge of composites. He is leading the industrial and mass transportation practice at Bcomp, with the clear goal to expand the company presence presence beyond automotive / motorsports and sports goods fields.

Industry and Mass Transportation Consultant

Tijmen Hennekes is a project manager specialising in sustainable forest management, responsible procurement, and resource efficiency. His work centres on helping businesses strengthen performance and resilience through more sustainable and transparent timber supply chains. With experience across tropical forest regions and international trade, Tijmen brings a balanced understanding of how environmental and commercial objectives can reinforce one another.
In the superyacht industry, these insights are increasingly relevant. Tijmen explores how shipyards, designers, and owners can make informed material choices that support credible sustainability goals while maintaining the craftsmanship and quality the sector is known for.
His approach is practical and collaborative, encouraging dialogue between industries that share a stake in responsible resource use. By connecting forest management realities with business strategy, Tijmen highlights how sustainability can enhance trust, reduce risk, and create long-term value across global supply chains.

Project Manager Tropical Forests

With over 25 years of experience managing luxury yachts, supporting new-build projects, and overseeing procurement and operations for UHNW families, Katy Jeffcoate has seen how fragmented systems and lost information make managing inventories inefficient, costly, and increasingly complex. That experience led her to start building IntusHQ to address a problem she knew needed solving.
As IntusHQ evolves, it is clear that the global transfer of wealth and the rise of tech-native family offices are reshaping expectations. Katy recognised the need for a smarter, more connected way to manage inventory, whether across estates and yachts or within personal collections of art, cars, or jewellery. IntusHQ is being built to meet that need, providing clarity and control for families, collectors, and their teams as they manage assets of every scale.

Founder of IntusHQ

Aaron Porter is the editor of Professional BoatBuilder magazine produced by IBEX in Brooklin, Maine. He worked as a professional sailor, rigger, and newspaper journalist before joining the ProBoat editorial team in 2005. He has served on the ABYC board and advisory committees for boatbuilding industry training and education programs and is a regular host and moderator for educational seminars at IBEX and Metstrade.

Editor

Maciej Rynkiewicz has been a Standards Developer for ABYC since 2019. An integral member of the ABYC Standards and Compliance Department, Maciej works directly with the Project Technical Committees (PTCs) responsible for creating and updating the ABYC standards. Maciej is also a member of ISO/TC 188 where he is working on ISO electrical standards. He also manages hands-on testing to see what can go right, and wrong, with boat electrical systems. A long-time boater, Maciej is a Certified Marine Technician with credentials from ABYC, NMEA, and Abaris as well as a skipper and certified sailing instructor.

Standards Developer

Enya Gibbs is studying for a Bachelors degree in Sports Technology at Loughborough University and is currently completing a year in industry as a Junior Product Design Engineer at Spinlock, working on their protect, sense and control ranges. Alongside her engineering career, Enya is a qualified Race Coach, Dinghy Instructor, and Senior Instructor, combining her technical knowledge with hands-on experience in performance sailing. She also serves as the UK Mentee Lead for The Magenta Project, supporting diversity and professional development across the marine industry.

Junior Product Design Engineer

Idan Cohen founded Pick A Pier in 2017 to create a digital infrastructure that helps marinas optimize resources, boost profitability, and enhance sustainability. As Chairman of IMIA, he leads marine innovation initiatives. Pick A Pier now partners with marinas in over 10 countries, driving efficiency and environmental stewardship.

Founder & CEO

CEO Edorado

Rupert Robinson is a strategic architect with three decades of experience designing sustainable-finance mechanisms that drive systemic transition across entire value chains. He structures blended-finance vehicles and carbon-market frameworks that mobilize public, private, and philanthropic capital to fund large-scale decarbonization.
A former senior leader at Norges Bank Investment Management (NBIM) and RSBG SE, Rupert designed transition funds and national-level impact vehicles aligning institutional and DFI capital behind coordinated climate strategies.
A recognized pioneer of Micro-Carbon Financing, he creates mechanisms that transform everyday operations into perpetual climate-finance flows. His work spans infrastructure, real estate, sports and entertainment, marine logistics, and industrial transition—embedding financing directly into commercial systems to make sustainability self-funding.
As an Independent Sustainable-Finance Lead, Rupert now advises governments, investors, and industry coalitions on catalytic instruments, blended-finance frameworks, and outcome-linked models that make systemic transition both investable and enduring.

Finance Strategist

Alasdair Reay is the CEO of HPI Verification Services Ltd., a notified body appointed by the European Commission to certify under the Recreational Craft Directive (RCD) & Pressure Equipment Directive (PED). The company has been recording boat compliance details in their own 'CEproof' software for thirty years. This represents a treasure trove of data for mining by anyone who has need of it.
Reay, a Fellow of the Royal Institution of Naval Architects in UK, began his career with Lloyds Register and after a brief spell with ABS, moved into small craft compliance. Reay is the author of the award-winning CEproof software, sits on numerous ISO and ABYC standards committees.

Raphaël Pleynet has more than 30 years of experience in the global composites and technical textiles industries, gained through senior management roles in international business. He holds a master's degree in Marketing and Management. 
He is the Managing Director of the European Composites Industry Association (https://eucia.eu/), which represents European national composites associations and industry-specific sector groups at EU level. In this role his responsibilities include directing EuCIA’s day-to-day operations, developing strategic partnerships and initiatives, and uniting the expertise of EuCIA’s members to support the sustainable growth of the European composites industry.
EuCIA :
We support the sustainable growth of the European composites industry and promote the development of a flourishing business environment, taking advantage of the combined expertise of our members.
We have developed the Eco-Impact Calculator in 2016.   A dedicate tool Cradle to gate for Composite materials.   We update it regularly. Last one was in April 2023.

Loris has been a driving force at GREENBOATS for over five years, beginning his career as a Boatbuilder and quickly transitioning into a Business Developer role.
His expertise spans a broad range of demanding projects, from custom applications within the yachting industry to high-performance manufactoring for IMOCA Offshore racing. In these roles, he was instrumental in the successful integration of sustainable natural fibers into structural components.
Today, Loris leverages this comprehensive knowledge to consult with clients across various industries, beyond the maritime sector. His primary focus is on demonstrating practical and effective ways for these businesses to integrate natural fibers into their own products, successfully combining high performance with sustainability.

Boatbuilder/Business Developer

Head of Marketing

Technical Manager Fédération des Industries Nautiques & EBI Technical Lead for Global LCA Project

Marcus Warrelmann is the CEO of SEA.AI, recognized for his strategic leadership in business scaling. With a mechanical engineering background from Deutsche Bahn, he has successfully grown Automotive Electronics business from scratch to over 1 billion euros in revenue. His previous roles include Chief Sales Officer at Joyson Safety Systems and Managing Director of Flex Automotive GmbH.

CEO Sea.AI

Content Director

Born in 1962.  President of Dometic Marine Segment since 2018.                    
Eric Fetchko is currently in his 39th year working at the company that is today Dometic Marine, starting his lengthy boating industry career in 1986 as junior engineer at Teleflex, which was acquired by SeaStar Solutions before being acquired again by Dometic Group in 2017.   In essence, he has worked with the same company for 39 years with four different owners. 
Eric Fetchko has literally dedicated his professional life to supporting the boat building industry, making boats better, safer, and more reliable, and providing boating enthusiasts around the world with a more enjoyable experience on the water.  As a passionate and experienced boater, he has found the ideal position. Fetchko holds 24 U.S. Patents, but in the last 15 years has enjoyed watching Dometic’s talented young engineers flourish and take the company’s product engineering to levels even he couldn’t have imagined.
Eric Fetchko’s dedication to the industry he loves includes serving for many years on the Board of Directors for Dometic’s former NHK joint venture in Japan, National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) Canada, and ongoing work with the American Boat & Yacht Council (ABYC) to help develop important safety standards. He has presided over some of the industry’s most significant technical achievements over the years, including many winners of the NMMA Innovation Award in a range of product categories.
Eric Fetchko’s contributions to the industry were recognized in 2024 when he was selected as Mover & Shaker of the Year by the editors of Boating Industry Magazine.
He graduated in Mechanical Engineering from British Columbia Institute of Technology in 1985 and earned an MSAT (Management Skills in Advanced Technology) from Simon Fraser University.  Striving to be a lifelong learner, Fetchko has taken more than 30 courses in Technology and Business over the last 39 years to assist him in growing in his roles.

Fabio Bignolini is the Co-Founder and CEO of nlcomp®, an Italian cleantech startup developing recyclable composite materials for the marine industry. A lifelong sailor, Fabio helped create rComposite®, a thermoplastic-based technology enabling circularity in high-performance products. Under his leadership, nlcomp® has launched award-winning sustainable boats like the ecoracer prototypes and the Grand Soleil Blue for Cantiere del Pardo, earning recognition from World Sailing, European Yacht of The Year and the Boat Builder Awards.

Co-Founder and CEO

Ben Stein is editor of Panbo.com covering marine technology. He also writes a monthly Getting Technical column for Soundings Trade Only and serves as electronics editor for Power & Motoryacht. Stein chairs the NMMA’s Innovation awards at IBEX and co-chairs the awards at the Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show. Additionally he is a member of DAME design awards jury at Metstrade. After 15 years in financial services technology, he left the corporate world to pursue his passion in boating. Stein is the current president of Boating Writers International, a USCG 100-Ton Master, and ABYC certified marine electrical technician.

Editor at Panbo.com

Marie‑France MacKinnon is the Executive Director of the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) Canada, the voice of the country’s recreational boating industry. She leads the association’s strategic direction, public affairs, and government relations work, with a particular focus on advancing market access, industry competitiveness, and regulatory modernization.
A seasoned executive with over 25 years of experience in public affairs, communications, and advocacy, Marie‑France has held senior leadership roles across both the public and private sectors. Prior to joining NMMA in 2023, she was Senior Vice President of Public Affairs and Communications at the Canadian Meat Council, where she secured landmark federal policy wins that reshaped agri-food workforce and immigration strategies.
Fluent in both official languages and based in Ottawa, Marie‑France is widely recognized for her results-driven approach, coalition building, and ability to influence public policy on behalf of Canada’s business and trade sectors.

Executive Director, NMMA Canada

Eric serves as President and CEO of IMTRA Corporation, a leading manufacturer and importer of quality solutions and products for the marine, energy and transportation markets. Eric joined New Bedford, MA-based IMTRA in 1988 and served in roles in product management, marketing and operations before being appointed COO in 2012 and CEO in 2014. Eric was responsible for engineering the employee-led/ESOP buyout of IMTRA which is now a 100% employee-owned company.
Eric is active in marine industry governance through his role as a board member and incoming chair of the audit committee of the National Marine Manufacturers. He also acts as the state captain for Massachusetts for the ESOP Association’s New England Chapter. A lifelong boater, Eric grew up sailing on the waters of Buzzards Bay in Massachusetts. He attended Westminster School (Simsbury, CT) and graduated from Bates College (Lewiston, ME) with a BA in Mathematics. Eric is very active in his community with a focus on philanthropic activities including his role as Trustee of the Braitmayer Foundation. He lives in Fairhaven, MA and is an active golfer, boater and tennis enthusiast.

President and CEO of IMTRA Corporation

Barrow International has been delivering cost effective, specialised, high impact marine marketing distribution results, nationally and internationally, for over 35 years. Directed by sales and marketing expert David Barrow, Barrow International has become a leading export business development agency in the commercial and leisure marine sector.  With past and present clients including Tylaska Marine Hardware, Spectra Watermakers, Sulnox Group PLC fuel saver additive, Anchoright Anchor chain marking system amongst others.  Some of the business have carried on becoming market leaders in their sectors.
Whether you’re a fast-growing business entering the international marine market, or a mature business aiming to launch your product or service into the marine industry, Barrow International has the expertise, contacts and influence to ensure your product or service is properly launched to a global audience of influential marine professionals. 
Combined with our consultancy service, Barrow International has an exclusive and unrivalled marine industry database, which is acknowledged by industry professionals as one of the best contact databases available.  It includes some of the highest-level decision-makers in the sector, in 25 different categories from yacht designers and manufacturers, to equipment manufacturers, distributors, wholesalers, agents, retailers, and related service and equipment suppliers.

Owner

Niels Klarenbeek has managed the METSTRADE team since early 2020, overseeing the strategy and growth of the world’s leading B2B event for the recreational marine industry.
He also serves as President of the International Federation of Boat Show Organisers (IFBSO), where he promotes an agenda focused on making boat shows more inclusive, sustainable and engaging.

Director Metstrade | President IFBSO

General Manager – Europe, Middle East & Africa

With a background from DNV Kristoffer is now leading the compliance work at Candela

Director of Quality and Compliance

Head of the Design Office

Owner, development & production

Naval Architect

Francis Hueber is a Naval Architect and Co-founder of Caponnetto Hueber SL, with over 20 years of experience in high-performance, foiling, and efficient yacht design, as well as CFD, aerodynamics, and hydrodynamics.
A graduate of ENSTA Bretagne, he has played a key role in six America’s Cup campaigns, winning in 2010 and 2013 with BMW Oracle and ORACLE TEAM USA, and securing the Prada Cup in 2021 with Luna Rossa. 
At Caponnetto Hueber, Francis leads the strategic direction, overseeing business development, client relations, and R&D project initiatives, while guiding the technical execution. He facilitates and stimulates the team’s creativity, helping them imagine and develop new ideas for the future of yachting and maritime transportation.

General Manager

Partner

Michael Short is Vice President of Marketing Operations and Residential at Crestron, a global leader in AV, control, and automation technology. With over 15 years of strategic marketing leadership, Michael oversees global marketing operations across product, PR, digital, and marketing systems—ensuring consistent brand execution and measurable impact across international markets.
He also leads Crestron’s residential marketing division, driving adoption of Crestron solutions and supporting growth across key verticals including hospitality, design-build, and marine. His continued leadership in the Marine Channel has helped establish Crestron as the AV and control technology leader in the superyacht sector, delivering innovative onboard experiences and integrated control solutions.
Michael’s career spans both large corporate environments and agile start-ups, where he has built and led high-performing teams through periods of rapid growth and transformation.

Vice President Global Marketing Operations & Residential

Tenair

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