Our team

A biological oceanographer with over 13 years of leadership experience, Leah bridges science, industry, and policy to drive practical environmental progress. Leah oversees the Foundation's operations, partnerships, and core programmes, translating complex scientific concepts into actionable solutions that align the industry around measurable, credible impact.

A Naval Architect with a Master's degree and over 20 years in the yachting industry, Hanna brings deep technical expertise across engineering, design, and cross-sector collaboration. Raised in wild nature and drawn to high-end technology, she is driven by a simple belief: that true luxury lies in harmony between humanity and the natural world.

With a Master's in Forest and Nature Conservation, Awwal brings deep expertise in environmental impact assessment, sustainable resource management, and translating complex data into actionable insights. Raised in Ghana, his lifelong connection to nature is profound, grounded in the belief that science is the most powerful tool for a healthier planet.

With a Master's in Environmental Policy, Governance, and Sustainable Development Diplomacy, Pia Lou brings expertise across NGOs, policymakers, and grassroots movements. Grounded in climate adaptation and climate law, she combines scholarly rigour with practical determination, committed to fostering a just transition from within the maritime industry itself.

With a Business degree majoring in Management and Marketing, Jessie brings expertise in brand strategy and marketing communications. She has a strong ability to translate complex ideas into compelling messages. Raised in New Zealand, she has a deep love for the natural world which has always driven her passion for ocean conservation.

Growing up on the shores of Antalya, Alperen's passion for the sea was sparked aboard a small fishing boat. A Naval Architect with a strong background in yacht design and maritime industry experience, he combines technical expertise with clear, practical communication, positioning him as the natural bridge between SYBAss and the Foundation, uniting industry and innovation.

Holding an MBA from INSEAD and with 25 years of experience across art, luxury, and technology, Aino brings sharp commercial and strategic expertise to the board. Aino led WINCH through a new phase to become employee owned. Employee ownership sits well within the Winch Design ethos, which has always placed the highest value on its people, whose loyalty, talent and commitment play a vital part in the success of the business.

Vienna has coordinated international projects at the intersection of sustainable development, human health, and the environment, working with governments and communities to introduce adaptive technologies and reduce climate vulnerability. She developed the WaterRevolution model, recognised by the United Nations as a best practice, and took it a step further by initiating the Water Revolution Foundation itself.

Peter joined Lürssen as fourth-generation family member in 1987, bringing a background in shipbuilding, industrial engineering, and business administration across Germany and the United States. Under his leadership, the company has grown to eight shipyards across northern Germany with 2,700 employees, remaining 100% family-owned throughout.

As Regional Vice President for the International South region of Safe Harbor Marinas, Carolina oversees a portfolio of prestigious marina properties across Florida, South Carolina, and Puerto Rico. With a background in sociology and business, she has risen through senior leadership roles over more than a decade, combining operational rigour with a deep understanding of the superyacht industry.

Appointed Managing Director of De Voogt Naval Architects / Feadship in 2023, Bas brings over two decades of maritime experience across seafaring, operational, and leadership roles at organisations including Heerema, Royal Van Oord, and A.P. Moller-Maersk. Holding a BSc in Maritime Operations, an MSc in Port Management, and an Executive MBA, he combines deep technical knowledge with clear strategic vision.

As Global Commercial Director of AkzoNobel's Yacht Coatings Division, Jemma brings over a decade of senior experience across the marine and aerospace sectors. Holding degrees from Columbia University and the National University of Singapore, she is deeply committed to advancing sustainable innovation in yacht coatings and widely recognised as a strong role model for women in the marine industry.

Anders joined the board of directors in October 2025, bringing with him decades of yachting industry experience, a profound understanding of global maritime trends, and a proven track record of supporting sustainable initiatives – including his notable commitment to YETI. His leadership, strategic insight, and passion for innovation will be invaluable as we continue to drive the transition toward net-zero and sustainable yachting.

A tax partner in the international practice of EY Amsterdam, Martijn brings deep expertise in cross-border tax matters, advising multinational companies on restructuring, refinancing, and business model strategy. A natural team player who values trust and integrity, he brings both rigour and a collaborative spirit to the board.

Henk joined Feadship in 1987 and became director and shareholder in 1996, helping grow the De Vries family business into seven operating companies with 1,200 employees. With a background in business economics, he brings decades of shipbuilding industry leadership and a deep understanding of what it means to build something that lasts, De Vries remains 100% family-owned to this day.

With a background in naval architecture and advanced hydrodynamics, Philippe has designed dozens of successful production yacht models, with over 12,000 built worldwide. His entry into superyachts came with the award-winning Mari Cha III in 1995, launching a career defined by high-performance design and the thoughtful integration of new technologies across both sailing and motor yachts.

After graduating in business studies and mathematics, Martin's first step into the superyacht world was aboard a 90-foot sailing yacht. In 1992 he founded The Superyacht Report, now the industry's leading authority on all things superyacht. Having spent time aboard over 1,500 yachts and interviewed hundreds of owners, CEOs, and designers, few people know this world as intimately as he does.