Nautic Global Group (NGG), one of the largest boat manufacturers in North America, today announced that Bradley (Brad) D. Gates has been named as the company’s new Chief Executive Officer. Gates, who brings marketing, customer service and product strategy experience to NGG, succeeds the company’s interim CEO James (Jim) R. Malone. Malone will continue in his role as Chairman of the Board of Directors, and Gates will join the Board as well. The succession is effective March 3, 2014.
“Following an extensive search process, we are excited to welcome Brad to Nautic Global Group,†said Malone. “Brad is a proven leader, with skills and experience that are a natural fit with our emphasis on quality and service. His team-oriented and high-energy style, combined with his strong professional background in marketing, customer service, aftermarket parts, and forward-looking product strategy for dealer-distributed manufacturers, will support our focus on execution while also positioning the company strategically as it enters its next phase of growth.â€
Gates previously served as the President of EMEA (Europe/Middle East/Africa) at Capital Safety Group, a privately owned company engaged in the manufacturing and distribution of fall protection safety equipment. In this role, Gates developed strategic plans to drive growth, customer service enhancements, and profitability, successfully turning around the company’s EMEA business performance and results. Before joining Capital Safety Group in 2007, Gates progressed through business and marketing roles of increasing responsibility at Minnesotabased The Toro Company, a leader in the design, manufacturing and marketing of professional turf maintenance equipment and services worldwide. Gates earned a Bachelor of Arts in Marketing Management and a Master’s Degree in Organizational Management from Concordia University.
“I am honored to have been selected as Nautic Global’s new CEO,†said Gates. “I am excited by the tremendous opportunities that lie ahead for the company and am committed to its success. I look forward to working closely with the talented senior leadership team and Nautic Global Group’s 900-plus employees to further our objectives of manufacturing great boats and selling them through a great dealer network.
“For more than 60 years NGG has established an impressive presence in the global boating industry,†Gates continued. “I am enthusiastic about joining the team, and I look forward to us continuing to enhance the dealer and customer experience as we grow.â€
Nautic Global Group produces Polar Kraft Aluminum Fishing Boats, Rinker Express Cruisers, Aqua Patio, and Godfrey Pontoon Boats among others.
