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SPEAKERS

THE FUTURE OF MARINAS & OPERATIONS IN THE MEDITERRANEAN

Investing in and Upgrading Marinas

Isabel Martinez

Comercial Director at IPM

Isabel Martínez is a professional over 15 years within the IPM Group. With positive energy and ability to reach customer value, she specialised in commercial management and business

Isabel Martínez is a professional over 15 years within the IPM Group. With positive energy and ability to reach customer value, she specialised in commercial management and business strategy development focused on the rental of moorings and shipyard services. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated a strong focus on customer satisfaction, optimizing commercial processes, and expanding the client portfolio.
She began her career in the nautical sector as part of a sales team, where she quickly stood out for her ability to identify growth and loyalty opportunities. Thanks to her strategic vision, she was promoted to Commercial Director, a role in which she has been responsible for leading a multifunctional team and managing key relationships with clients and suppliers.
Her in-depth knowledge of the nautical market and her ability to implement effective commercial tactics have allowed her to position the company as a benchmark in the mooring rental and shipyard services sector. Additionally, she has played a crucial role in modernizing the services offered and developing new business lines, resulting in a significant increase in profitability and the expansion of the company’s market presence.
With a results-oriented approach and leadership based on innovation, she continues to drive the company toward new goals, adapting to the ever-changing demands of the nautical market and enhancing the customer experience.
Previously, Isabel spent 14 years in the Chamber of Commerce’s International Trade department, supporting businesses in their global expansion.

Nani Mas

Comercial Director at OCIBAR

Throughout his career, he has played a key role in driving strategic initiatives within the industry, including the creation of Balearic Yacht Destination, an association that has significantly

Nani Mas has dedicated his entire career to the yachting industry, building a solid track record across various business sectors. His expertise spans yacht charter management, shipyard administration, and the development and commercialization of marinas for superyachts.

Throughout his career, he has played a key role in driving strategic initiatives within the industry, including the creation of Balearic Yacht Destination, an association that has significantly contributed to positioning and promoting the yachting sector in the Balearic Islands.

Currently serving as Commercial Director at Ocibar, Nani leads the company’s commercial development and expansion, leveraging his extensive industry knowledge and strategic vision to drive growth and strengthen Ocibar’s market presence.

Dean Smith

CCO at D-Marin

Dean has a 20+ year career within the marina and marine sector. Creating business growth strategies, operational excellence plans and sustainable commercial success

Dean has a 20+ year career within the marina and marine sector. Creating business growth strategies, operational excellence plans and sustainable commercial success.
Board leadership and executive appointments covering properties, consultancy, operating and service companies. Dean has a constant and clear customer centric mindset that deliver outstanding growth.
Elena Veleva

Elena Veleva

Sales Manager at Port Vauban

Elena Veleva leads the marina's sales efforts, specializing in the sale of premium berths to a diverse, multilingual clientele. With a deep understanding of both the maritime

Born in Bulgaria, I had the privilege of living in several European countries from a young age, which has greatly contributed to a rich international background and multilingual fluency. After completing an MBA in Nice, I decided to make the South of France a permanent home, blending professional aspirations with a passion for the Mediterranean lifestyle.

As Sales Manager at Port Vauban, Elena Veleva leads the marina's sales efforts, specializing in the sale of premium berths to a diverse, multilingual clientele. With a deep understanding of both the maritime industry and the unique needs of international clients, she manages the full sales cycle, from initial inquiry to contract negotiation, offering tailored solutions that meet the specific demands of yacht owners and businesses

Enrique Tintore

Product Manager Xplorer & Yacht Support at Damen Yachting

Enrique Tintore is an experienced professional in the yachting industry, where he leads the development of innovative products and

Enrique Tintore is an experienced professional in the yachting industry, currently serving as Product Manager Xplorer & Yacht Support at Damen Yachting, where he leads the development of innovative products and support solutions for explorer and support vessels.

Graduated from Strathclyde University with a Master of Engineering in Naval Architecture with High Performance Marine Vehicles, Enrique combines strong technical expertise with a passion for maritime innovation.

He is known for his strong character and excellent communication skills. Throughout his career, he has worked with various international companies across multiple countries, gaining valuable experience in several areas of the marine industry from an early stage.

Exploring the future of Mediterranean Migration & Charter Activity

 

Frédéric Dormeuil

CEO of SOS Yachting

Frédéric Dormeuil leads the Mediterranean’s premier VAT fiscal representation firm, managing over 700 active VAT positions and nearly 2,000 charters annually. With

Frédéric Dormeuil, CEO of SOS Yachting, leads the Mediterranean’s premier VAT fiscal representation firm, managing over 700 active VAT positions and nearly 2,000 charters annually. With a strong background in luxury brand management and extensive international experience in key markets such as the U.S., Japan, and Southeast Asia, he has worked with iconic brands like Richemont, Aston Martin, and Alfred Dunhill.

His transition to the yachting industry in 2018 allowed him to merge his expertise in high-end brand positioning with the superyacht sector, playing a key role in strategic partnerships and industry events. Under his leadership, SOS Yachting has expanded operations to Monaco and Greece, reinforcing its presence in the market.

Beyond his professional achievements, Frédéric is actively involved in social causes and gender equality initiatives. With a strategic mindset and a global vision, he brings unparalleled expertise in taxation, brand management, and the future of the yachting industry.

Alex Chumillas

Founder and managing director of Tax Marine & Aviation (TMA)

Member of the International Yacht Broker Association (IYBA) and founding member of the Barcelona Nautical Cluster (BNC), Alex has

Founder and managing director of Tax Marine & Aviation (TMA). The firm was established in 2011 and provides exclusively VAT and customs advisory to the Yachting and Aviation industries. Since its foundation TMA has acted as fiscal representative and licensed for chartering in the Mediterranean a fleet over 300 commercial superyachts.
Proven track record advising in yacht and aircraft purchases, owning and operational structures. He has worked for top-tier foreign broker companies, family offices, international law firms, and aircraft operators most of which remain regular clients.
Member of the International Yacht Broker Association (IYBA) and founding member of the Barcelona Nautical Cluster (BNC) where actively participates in its legal committee. Member of the board of directors of the Spanish Business Aviation Association (SPBAA) and co-chair of the European Business Aviation Association tax committee (EBAA).
Actively involved in non-profit collaborative projects. Founder of “The Superyacht and Business Aviation VAT Think Tank” a group discussion with more than 140 professionals, gathering VAT and customs specialists from across Europe and the US. The project seeks to improve the correct understanding of tax regulations from an international cross-border perspective and bring the reality of Yachting and Aviation industries to policy makers and the broad public.

Patricia Bullock

Network Marine Consultants Founder

Founder and Managing Director of Network Marine Consultants. Known to her team as “the Guru”, and as a result of over 30 years’ experience, she is an acknowledged specialist in the field

Patricia is the Founder and Managing Director of Network Marine Consultants. Known to her team as “the Guru”, and as a result of over 30 years’ experience, she is an acknowledged specialist in the field of all things applicable to general yachting administration in Spain. She is, as such, often invited to speak at major international conferences on the subject of yachting and chartering and has been instrumental in lobbying for the changes made to the law relating to matriculation tax in Spain. Her dedication to the yachting sector is also apparent in that she is the Founder and Vice-President of the sail training charity Fundacion de Joves Navegants de Balears. Patricia sits on the Board of AENIB, the Association of Balearic Nautical Businesses.

Antonella Della Pietra

Managing Partner at BWA Yachting Spain

Antonella has been in the yachting industry for over 20 years, starting in operations management before becoming a shareholder and Managing

Antonella has been in the yachting industry for over 20 years, starting in operations management before becoming a shareholder and Managing Partner for BWA Yachting Spain in 2012. Prior to moving to Spain, Antonella spent 6 years working in an international forwarding company in her native Italy, specialising in exports and customs. As anyone who has met her will attest, she is a formidable woman! Antonella’s passion for the yachting industry and customer service is unparalleled, and her experience, knowledge, energy, and professionalism have earned a well-deserved reputation for excellence. Antonella takes pride in offering the very best service possible and despite managing a company that has grown considerably under her direction, she remains a very hands-on leader of her team.
Marcial Bardolet Richter

Marcial Bardolet

Head of the Posidonia Seagrass Surveillance Service

He leads the Posidonia Surveillance Service under the Balearic Government’s Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Natural

Marcial Bardolet Richter is a marine conservation expert specializing in the protection of Posidonia oceanica. He leads the Posidonia Surveillance Service under the Balearic Government’s Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Natural Environment, overseeing efforts to prevent anchoring damage in the seagrass and promote sustainable marine practices. In addition to his role in government-led conservation, he is also president of Mallorca Preservation and a member of the Mediterranean Posidonia Network Task Force, working to bridge science, policy, and public engagement for the protection of marine habitats.

THE FUTURE OF REFIT & SERVICE INFRASTRUCTURE IN THE MEDITERRANEAN

 INVESTING IN REFIT INFRASTRUCTURE AND BUSINESS MODELS

Carlos Morales

Carlos Morales

Managing Director at Astilleros de Mallorca

Carlos Morales, with over 30 years of experience in the yachting industry, has worked in various roles across different types of companies, including

Carlos Morales, with over 30 years of experience in the yachting industry, has worked in various roles across different types of companies, including yacht design and naval architecture offices, as well as new build, repair, and refit shipyards. His experience as an Owner’s Representative for several years provides him with a well-rounded perspective on the industry from multiple angles.
Carlos Albons

Carlos Albons

Operation Director at Servicios Técnicos Portuarios (STP)

Carlos Albons Llompart joined the STP Shipyard Palma team in 2018 to take on the role of Production Manager at the yard, a strategic position in the

Carlos Albons Llompart joined the STP Shipyard Palma team in 2018 to take on the role of Production Manager at the yard, a strategic position in the operation of the esplanade. His extensive experience in sailing and backround as a captain of large vessels endorse him as a highly qualified professional for this position.
Trained at the University of Cadiz, he studied Nautical and Maritime Transport. His professional career began at the age of 19, when he embarked on a cargo ship, making the start of a journey that took him to travel the world's seas. His first assignment was on a roro type merchant ship, operating on a regular route between the Canary Islands and Seville, specialising in the transport of containers and ro-ro cargo. Subsequently, he joined the renowned Royal Caribbean company as part of the crew of a cruise ship.
After years of sailing on various vessels, from merchant ships to large yachts, Carlos decided to redirect his career towards onshore management, joining STP Shipyard Palma. His in-depth knowledge of the maritime sector, his leadership and management skills have made him a key figure within the company, where he continues to contribute his expertise and vision to optimise shipyard processes.

Manuel Di Tillio

Technical & Sales Director at AMICO

With 20 years of experience in the refit business, both in production and in technical and sales, and a background in yacht engineering and design, he has seen all sides of the refit equation

With 20 years of experience in the refit business, both in production and in technical and sales, and a background in yacht engineering and design, Manuel Di Tillio has seen all sides of the refit equation, with professional experiences in Spain and in Italy. Having spent 14 years at Amico & Co, he stepped up into the Operational Technical & Sales Director role in 2024. He lives in Genoa with his family.

Eric Robert-Peillard

CEO at Adriatic42

Executive leader with over 30 years of experience across the naval, industrial, and luxury yacht repair sectors. He specializes in developing growth strategies, managing acquisitions, and

Eric Robert-Peillard is an executive leader with over 30 years of experience across the naval, industrial, and luxury yacht repair sectors. He specializes in developing growth strategies, managing acquisitions, and optimizing operational processes. Throughout his career, he has led high-performing teams and successfully managed complex operations, delivering significant results such as substantial revenue growth, increased profitability, and operational improvements.

He has held key leadership positions at renowned companies, including Gartner Development, ACTI Group, Monaco Marine La Ciotat, Couach CNC, and IMS Shipyard. His experience ranges from driving corporate restructuring efforts to leading the delivery of high-value international projects. He has overseen multi-site operations, managed large teams and subcontractors, and negotiated complex international contracts. His approach focuses on creating sustainable competitive advantages, managing crises effectively, and cultivating a culture of excellence and collaboration within organizations.

Rob Papworth

Rob Papworth

Managing Director at MB92

After several years racing sailboats in the superyacht world, he transitioned ashore in 1998 to oversee his first superyacht build. This experience led to a decade in high-tech composite

Rob Papworth graduated from Southampton University in 1995 with a degree in Ship Science. After several years racing sailboats in the superyacht world, he transitioned ashore in 1998 to oversee his first superyacht build. This experience led to a decade in high-tech composite yacht construction, including several prestigious America’s Cup and Volvo Ocean Race projects.

In 2001, Rob moved to the South of France to join the high-tech yacht builder Compositeworks as a shareholder in the company, which gradually transitioned into the yacht refit industry. When MB92 acquired Compositeworks in 2017, Rob remained in La Ciotat, where he now leads operations as the shipyard's CEO. For the past decade, he has also chaired the ICOMIA Superyacht Refit Group, shaping industry standards and best practices.

Makis Pavlatos

Managing Director at A1 Yacht Trade Consartium SA

His contributions to the industry and to Greek tourism have been recognized by both SETE (Association of Greek Tourism Enterprises) and HATTA

Founder, Partner, and Board Member of A1 Yacht Group and BWA Yachting, Makis has built a distinguished career in the yachting industry. His journey began aboard the iconic Christina, followed by a key role at Camper & Nicholsons, where he worked closely with renowned industry figure Klaus Kuch.

He later served as Project Manager for refit projects alongside Kuch in Greece and Germany, gaining extensive hands-on experience in technical and operational aspects of the sector.

Currently, he oversees operations at A1 Shipyard in Rhodes, a facility capable of handling vessels of up to 650 tons. In addition to his shipyard leadership, he is also the driving force behind several major marine infrastructure projects in Greece, currently in development.

His contributions to the industry and to Greek tourism have been recognized by both SETE (Association of Greek Tourism Enterprises) and HATTA (Hellenic Association of Travel & Tourist Agencies).

THE FUTURE OF SERVICES & SUBCONTRACTORS

Stefan Coronel

Stefan Coronel

General Manager of Huisfit by Royal Huisman

Before leading Huisfit, Stefan was responsible for design and engineering at Royal Huisman, focusing on the seamless integration of the many

Stefan Coronel is the General Manager of Huisfit, the dedicated refit division of Royal Huisman. While Royal Huisman is renowned for building exceptional custom yachts, Huisfit applies the same unrivaled craftsmanship, expertise, and innovation to the refit, rebuild, and renewal of high-end sailing and motor yachts. This includes both existing Royal Huisman yachts and other distinguished superyachts seeking world-class refit solutions.

Before leading Huisfit, Stefan was responsible for design and engineering at Royal Huisman, focusing on the seamless integration of the many disciplines involved in both new build and refit projects. His earlier career includes heading structural engineering and naval architecture at Feadship, as well as experience as an operations manager in marine salvage, bringing a wealth of technical and operational expertise to his role at Huisfit.

Paul Grunig

Paul Grunig

Production Director at Astilleros de Mallorca

He develops and oversees the project and production processes, ensuring the highest standards in yacht refit and repair services.

Paul Grünig Binimelis is the Production Director at Astilleros de Mallorca, a leading refit and repair shipyard with a mix model combining its own workshops with subcontracting.

Following his background in Marine Engineering and Project Management, he worked during several years as Project Manager and then developed and managed the Project Department in the company. He took over the production department in 2021where he has been integrating and developing three departments over the past years Pre-project and Quotations Department, Project Management Department and the workshops. He is the Production Director since 2024 .

In this role, he develops and oversees the project and production processes, ensuring the highest standards in yacht refit and repair services. His career reflects a commitment to excellence in the maritime industry, contributing significantly to the company's reputation for quality and reliability.

Manu Ayme

Manu Ayme

Sales Director at Pinmar
His strong technical background, extensive management experience and in-depth industry knowledge enables him to understand clients' needs and deliver tailored solutions that exceed

Manu's career in the marine industry began in 2006 when he joined superyacht paint specialists Rolling Stock, providing logistical support during the construction of two new builds in Southern Spain.

Following this, he gained extensive experience across Europe, working in Pendennis, Cartagena, and Viareggio before joining the team at Rolling Stock's headquarters in Palma de Mallorca in the summer of 2008. During his tenure in Palma, he held various management positions, playing a key role in the company’s growth. After merging with Pinmar in 2012 to form GYG, Manu co-led the Group’s global production division.

With a strong technical background and extensive management experience, Manu now serves as Pinmar's Sales Director. His in-depth industry knowledge enables him to understand clients' needs and deliver tailored solutions that exceed expectations.

Joan Salom

Joan Salom

Deputy General Manager at Nautipaints
Part of the third generation involved in Nautipaints Group helping define and oversee painting projects while supporting the Group’s expansion into

Joan Salom is part of the third generation involved in Nautipaints Group. Now, as Deputy General Manager, he helps define and oversee painting projects while supporting the Group’s expansion into new markets and services. He joined the company in 2023 after studying in the United States and completing a degree in Business Management in Madrid. His first steps were hands-on, working in production and gaining practical experience across the company. He later led a full paint project on a 70-metre yacht in the south of France as Project Manager, taking part in planning, coordination and client communication.
Jon Winstanley

Jon Winstanley

Founder and CEO of Modesty Yacht Carpentry
Working on large yachts then onto superyachts, Jon Winstanley has a width and depth of knowledge of everything carpentry and the

With nearly 40 years experience, starting in clock making and cabinetry, before moving onto working for Oyster yachts and then the leap into self-employment in Mallorca. Working on large yachts then onto superyachts, Jon Winstanley has a width and depth of knowledge of everything carpentry and the superyacht industry in general.

After starting Modesty Yacht Carpentry with Phil Spear in 1999 as a simple 80m2 carpentry shop, it has now grown to over 1500m2 where decks and more are fabricated for many of the world’s finest Superyacht build and refit facilities. The use of laser measuring and CNC machining has allowed Modesty to produce a revolutionary system for prefabricated decks where it works with tolerances of 0.5mm over a length of 45 meters. Using the same technology and experience they also create deckhead panels, cap rails, handrails, gratings and exterior furniture to the same exacting standards.

The company has not lost sight of its roots and continues to service the refit market with localized repairs and replacement alongside our creation of full deck packages. With a continuous investment in the latest equipment and development of new ideas this has kept Modesty at the forefront of the market and they are proud to work for the most prestigious shipyards and the most exclusive vessel in the world.

MEET THE MODARATORS

Martin Redmayne

Chairman & Editor in Chief

He is a leading expert in superyacht media, market intelligence, and strategic consultancy.

Martin H. Redmayne is a highly respected journalist, superyacht consultant, market analyst, and industry commentator with an extensive career dedicated to the superyacht sector.

Since 1992, he has served as Chairman and Editor-in-Chief of The Superyacht Group, one of the industry’s leading independent and privately-owned media companies. Often described as the Financial Times of Superyachts, the group encompasses The Superyacht Report, SuperyachtNews.com, and The Superyacht Forum, delivering authoritative journalism, expert opinions, and valuable market intelligence.

In addition, Martin is the Chief Executive of The Superyacht Agency, a boutique strategic consultancy firm he has led since 2002. The agency specialises in brand strategy, market analysis, forecasting, and intelligence, advising major investors, prominent brands, governments, and yacht owners worldwide.

From 2017 to 2023, he also contributed as a founding board member of the Water Revolution Foundation, a non-profit organisation committed to advancing sustainability and reducing the environmental impact of the superyacht industry.

Earlier in his career, between 1988 and 1992, Martin played a pivotal role as Commercial Director at Boat International, often referred to as the Vogue of Yachting. During his tenure, he was instrumental in the magazine’s strategic growth and redevelopment.

Martin’s connection to the sea began even earlier, spending a year as a private chef aboard SY Nazenin III, an 85-foot classic sailing yacht owned by one of Turkey’s most prominent figures.

He holds a degree in Business and Mathematics, earned between 1985 and 1987, laying the academic foundation for his multifaceted career.

Ken Hickling Moderator

Ken Hickling

Non-Exec Director at Viking Maritime Group

He currently serves on the board of the Viking Maritime Group. In addition to running his own Business Advisory company,

Ken Hickling has worked within the Yachting industry since graduating from Solent University in 1990 where he studied Boatbuilding and Boatyard Management. During that time, he worked with Composites specialist Gurit (UK) Ltd (formerly SP Systems) before spending 21 years with the leading global paint company AzoNobel. His positions there included VP Marketing for Interlux in the USA and Global Manager for Awlgrip – both specialist Yacht paint companies.

Mr Hickling currently serves on the board of the Viking Maritime Group. In addition to running his own Business Advisory company, he currently has the role of Managing Director for three specialist consulting companies: Newmar Overseas Consulting Ltd, Optimar Consulting Ltd and John Robinson Associates Survey Specialists Ltd.

Ken holds a position of Emeritus board member with global superyacht industry association ISS, having served as President, and is currently vice chair of Superyacht UK, which is part of the UK leisure marine trade body British Marine. Hs is also the BSI (British Standards Institution) representative on ISO TC8/SC12/WG5 a technical standards working group addressing Quality on Superyachts.

Ken also serves as one of the Trustees of the Superyacht Charities Foundation, which raises funds from within the Superyacht industry on behalf of many small charities operating across Europe.