OUR EXPERTS

Theo's longstanding affair with association management kicked-off in 1992 when he started working for the RAI Association in the automotive industry. During his 14 years there, he studied association management and climbed up to the position of director of the car and truck department. He had previously studied business economics. In 2004, with this track record and a good amount of know-how in association and stakeholder management, Theo founded Hooning Association Managers. The crowning feat of arms of his career so far is the foundation of the Superyacht Builders Association (SYBAss). Under his direction, the association has played a large role in making the superyacht industry visible in order to protect its best interests when it comes to regulatory issues and carve a niche to set the industry apart from the commercial maritime sector. In 2017, together with major players from the industry, Theo launched The Superyacht Life Foundation, a non-profit organisation tasked with creating a more positive perception of superyachting to help the industry thrive.

Robert's passion is uniting people and organizations to achieve things that are beyond the scope of the individual. Throughout his 9 years of experience in association management he has experienced again and again how truly working together can create very unique energy and impressive results. 1 + 1 is not just 2. The art of association management is to utilize this energy, organise the collective and maintain everyone's trust and support. It requires integrity and professionalism as well as a strategic mindset, eye for the various stakeholders and diverse interests, ability to work with multiple levels and cultures, practical thinking and strong communication skills.

Clair is the legal specialist with a passion for maritime and automotive industry. Her journey into yachting began unexpectedly while completing her master's degree in Law, leading her to fall in love with the beauty of yachting and the community surrounding it. With over three years of experience in the industry, Clair now serves as Team Director for SYBAss and Legal Counsel for WRF and SYL. Her background includes involvement in projects such as advocacy and lobbying, events, social media, regulations, and privacy issues. Clair's expertise, enthusiasm, and legal acumen enable her to add value to a wide range of projects in the non-profit sector.

Dilan is eager to perform end-to-end impactful marketing strategies by blending core competencies of brands and trendsetting ideas. As an MSc Marketing Manager, she has seven years of experience in brand positioning, strategic communication, and lead generation. Up until now, she infused fresh life into the international marketing and communication programs for numerous national & international organisations in B2B, B2C, and nonprofit sectors. Dilan volunteers for initiatives and organisations that focus on diversity and inclusion in the workspace. She is excited to put her expertise to work for the superyacht industry.

At the crossroads of communication and strategic creativity, Laurie's experience serves to accompany businesses through change management, corporate expansion and innovative mindset shifts. Her ten years experience in the superyacht industry have allowed her to blend marketing and sales skills for B2B and B2C audiences, serving the development of markets in France, Monaco, Australia and the Netherlands. Committed to supporting impactful projects, Laurie strives to volunteer her time for non-profit organisations aligned to her values.

Gigi is an expert in strategic marketing and brand communications, having developed her skills through building sustainable business ventures and managing a number of brands across the Benelux region. As an accomplished communicator with ambition to strategically approach problems, she is motivated to facilitate positive change on a global scale for both people and the planet. With a Bachelor's degree in Communications & Media, Gigi is thrilled to be applying her knowledge to the superyacht industry.

Lorenzo certainly knows his way around a yacht after working more than 30 years in the industry. His background in naval architecture and mechanical engineering, along with 12 years as head of the yachting department at RINA and, most recently, four years as secretary general of Nautica Italiana, make him generously qualified to monitor and influence the regulatory environment on behalf of members of the Superyacht Builders Association (SYBAss). With SYBAss being the only organisation in the superyacht industry that has earned IMO accreditation, it is the only voice of this niche market making it vitally important that it is heard.

Hanna has a Masters degree in Naval Architecture and has worked passionately in the yachting industry for over 16 years. Her career has taken her from Marine Engineer to Senior Naval Architect and design specialist. During this time she has created a variety of projects in collaboration with foremen, crew members, managers, science institutes, classification societies and sales teams. This has equipped her with detailed knowledge of superyacht naval architecture and the processes surrounding it. Hanna is determined to create bridges of collaboration to exchange knowledge and experience. Global work towards balancing civilization and high end developments with natural resources is Hanna's passion.

From sunny Lisbon, Jaime grew up sailing and has ever since nurtured a deep love and respect for the ocean. He moved to the Netherlands at a young age with the motivation to pursue a bachelor’s and master’s program in Marine Engineering at the Delft University of Technology. Recently graduated, Jaime feels compelled to leave his contribution for a better tomorrow for future generations to come and wants to ensure his skills and knowledge are put to good use. On a personal level, he’s passionate about wild camping, photography, and science.

Awwal is an expert in environmental impact assessment and sustainable resource management. With a Master’s degree in Forest and Nature Conservation, he has a complex understanding of ecosystems and solving sustainability challenges by translating data into actionable insights. Having been raised among the lush landscapes of Ghana, his childhood instilled an unwavering passion for nature and a profound appreciation for its delicate balance. Grounded in a pragmatic approach rooted in science, Awwal is motivated to help make a tangible impact for a healthier planet.

Sarah spent her childhood by the Irish Sea, beginning a lifelong love of the ocean. After completing her degree in English Literature, Sarah travelled and worked around the globe, following her passion to explore other cultures and lands. For the past two decades, Sarah has been a stalwart in the scientific and medical publishing industry, traversing a career path that spans from customer service to project management. Her extensive experience is a testament to her competence and reliability. Her strengths are handling complex and diverse projects across multiple teams and locations. Sarah is delighted to use her skills in the superyacht environment and brings a problem-solving and can-do attitude to the world of association management. The Office Manager role is a pivotal part of the company with an exciting assortment of responsibilities.