PHOTO COURTESY CIGARETTE RACING TEAM Cigarette Racing Team has promoted Kurt Bender to president of the Florida-based high-performance boat manufacturer.
Bender brings more than 25 years of experience to the position, having spent the last three years dedicated to refining the company’s manufacturing processes. Before working at Cigarette, he worked for GG Schmitt & Sons and Viking Yacht Company, where he held positions including president and director of engineering. Bender is an active member of the National Marine Manufacturers Association and the American Boat & Yacht Council.
In his new position, Bender will oversee all aspects of the company’s portfolio including production, supply-chain management, quality control and workforce development.
“Kurt has been a critical part of our leadership and has been one of the leading drivers of the successful growth of our vision,” Alex Ruiz, Cigarette Racing CEO, said in a statement. “Cigarette has never had better commitment to quality, performance and customer service.”
Additionally, Bender is bringing on Seth Holl as general manager. He has nearly 20 years of experience in the recreational boating industry. Ernesto Martinez was named materials manager for the company.
