The Brunswick Boat Group, a unit of Brunswick Corporation (NYSE: BC), has announced that Tim Schiek has been named president of the Sea Ray Group effective March 11.  He will report to Andy Graves, president – Brunswick Boat Group. 

Schiek, with Brunswick for the past 18 years, has been president of the Boston Whaler Group since 2010.  Joining Schiek at the Sea Ray Group will be Dave O’Connell, who will assume responsibilities as senior vice president global sales for the Sea Ray and Meridian brands.  O’Connell most recently was president – Hatteras/CABO and will report to Schiek.  

“Tim brings a track record of business growth and success, as well as strong dealer relationships to Sea Ray and Meridian from his recent tenure as president of the Boston Whaler Group,” Graves said.  “He is highly regarded for his product development and innovation leadership, his determination to exceed customer expectations, and his passion for boating.  

Tim’s broad management experience includes leading our Fiberglass Fish businesses, driving growth in our Pontoon businesses, and leading the strategy function for both Mercury and then later in his career, the Boat Group.  I am pleased to name such a capable leader to this important role.

“Dave O’Connell brings over 20 years of extensive boat industry experience to his new role, and will drive our global growth initiatives and lead our domestic sales organization,” Graves continued.  “As president of Hatteras/Cabo, Dave has positioned those brands to undergo our previously announced sales process. 

Prior to that role, Dave led the Merritt Island product development and engineering team, supporting the Sea Ray, Meridian and Bayliner brands, as we revitalized product development programs post-recession.  Dave’s prior experience also includes leading Sea Ray’s sport yacht/yacht sales and marketing teams.  We are excited to bring Dave back to the Sea Ray Group, and leverage his extensive knowledge and expertise in large boats as
we aggressively invest to grow our position in this market segment around the world.”  

John Ward will succeed O’Connell as president – Hatteras/CABO, effective immediately, and will report to Graves.  “John brings over 20 years of extensive industry experience to this role, including the past 2-1/2 years leading global sales and marketing for these brands. He is uniquely qualified to guide these operations through the ongoing sales process, and will be instrumental in defining and driving the execution of the necessary business strategies to strengthen the Hatteras/CABO business.  John’s deep industry and management experience, strong dealer and customer relationships, and track record of success, will prove invaluable in this new role.”

Graves said that a new president for Boston Whaler will be named in the coming weeks to succeed Schiek.

To learn more visit:  www.searay.com