Boating Industry September/October 2025 | Page 14

MOVERS & SHAKERS BOLD MOVES

“ There are many rewarding parts of my work, but what means the most to me is the focus on family and relationships,” Burke said.“ I love creating spaces where families can spend time together and make lasting memories. I also value helping our staff grow in their careers while providing for their own families. One of the things I am most proud of is knowing that when new opportunities come up, we have a team that is ready to step in and take on those roles. That sense of community and commitment is what makes this work so meaningful.”

Chief Operating Officer, International Yacht Brokers Association( IYBA)

Paul Flannery has been involved in the marine industry nearly his entire life, first working as a dock boy before advancing to captain of custom sportfishing boats on the tournament circuit. With a private pilot license and 500- ton U. S. C. G. Masters License, he has traveled the world and built a successful career as a yacht broker.

In 2009, he joined the Board of Directors of the Florida Yacht Brokers Association, later serving as president in 2016 and 2017. During his tenure, he helped rebrand FYBA to IYBA and formed partnerships with yacht broker associations worldwide.

In 2018, Flannery transitioned into his current role as executive director and chief operating officer of IYBA, where he oversees day-to-day operations and drives the organization’ s growth.

“ The most fulfilling part of my job is my belief that what we do at IYBA is actually making a difference,” Flannery said.“ IYBA provides support and guidance for a group of professionals whose mission is to facilitate happiness. There is no other pursuit in life that provides a better catalyst to commune with friends and family and create enduring memories than in boating. If we can help people realize that dream by facilitating their journey, we are all the better for it.”

His leadership has strengthened ties with industry partners including Informa, NMMA, MRAA, and BoatUS, while also recruiting top executives to serve on the IYBA Board of Directors.

“ I think collaboration is a very important element in leadership,” Flannery said.“ Everyone has to understand the goal, why we are doing what we are doing and how we can each contribute effectively to accomplishing that end. Without buy-in, there are too many competing elements in the way of successfully accomplishing that goal.”

Under his guidance, IYBA has revolutionized digital tools for the yacht brokerage community. He spearheaded the creation of interconnected, industry-owned platforms BoatDox. org, a secure system for managing transactional documents; Yachtbroker. org, the only industry-owned MLS for boat sales and charters; and Yachtr. com, a consumer-facing listing site that levels the playing field for large and small brokerages.

Education has been another major focus for Flannery. He leads IYBA’ s seminars and webinars dedicated to providing valuable insights and preparing the next generation of brokers for success.

By building platforms“ for the industry, by the industry” and fostering professional growth, he continues to strengthen IYBA’ s mission and the future of the global yacht market.

“ Whether in business or in your personal life, if you try to separate out the noise and distractions and‘ agenda,’ your best path will reveal itself,” Flannery said.“ I try to make it a habit to stay on course." He said his greatest fulfillment comes from giving back to the industry that has given so much to him.

Business Unit Director, Wet Sounds

With more than 30 years of experience in sales and marketing, Mark Gerick took on the role of COO at Wet Sounds in 2020. He quickly built strong cross-functional teams, introduced efficient processes and championed a culture that values accountability, curiosity, and integrity. In August, he was promoted to business unit director.

“ I credit much of my success to focusing on the team,” Gerick said.“ Building a strong team is critical, and making sure everyone works together towards set goals is a priority. Goals must be specific, measurable, attainable, and tied to a clear timeframe. I also believe in ongoing communication across all departments so everyone stays aligned on the tasks required to reach those goals."

Beyond company walls, Gerick is a strong advocate for boating safety. He works with OEMs, dealers and associations like NMMA, MRAA, NMEA, and WSIA to promote innovation, safety and responsible boating. Gerick has also supported sustainable practices and community involvement, promoting cleaner manufacturing methods and initiatives aimed at preserving waterways and introducing more people to boating.

He also supports industry efforts to attract and retain young professionals. He frequently participates in panels, trade events and networking opportunities to share insights into career development, innovation and leadership tactics.

His own leadership style is rooted in authenticity and empathy. He empowers his team, fosters open communication and invests in professional development, creating a culture where people feel valued and inspired to perform their best.

“ I would describe my leadership style as transparent with expectations, while I work hard to inspire, support, communicate clearly and follow up,” Gerick said.“ I believe strongly in leading by example. There are many different styles of leadership, and I think my approach is a mixture. The combination that best fits me is a blend of coaching, collaboration and servant leadership.”

Whether guiding young engineers or sales professionals, he helps his teams see their potential and understand their impact on the industry ' s future.

His ability to connect with people at every level has made him a trusted leader both inside and outside the organization.

“ The most fulfilling part of my job is working with such great employees and reaching the goals we set as a company,” Gerick said.“ I really enjoy hearing and seeing comments of success and appreciation from both our customers and our team members. It means a lot when the work is so rewarding that you find yourself wanting to wake up early and get started on the day’ s tasks at the office.”

Executive Vice President and Chief Financial and Strategy Officer, Brunswick Corporation

Ryan Gwillim plays a pivotal, behind the scenes role at Brunswick Corporation.

14 september / october 2025 www. boatingindustry. com