Alexander Marine International, the importer of Ocean Alexander yachts, has promoted Justin Abernethy to vice president of operations in Fort Lauderdale and Jonathan Gutierrez to vice president of operations in Merritt Island, Fla.
Abernethy will oversee the management of all Ocean Alexander commissioning, new boat delivery, service and warranty for the East Coast. He has worked in the marine industry for almost 13 years, including as his own yacht management company.
“Abernethy joined the company in April of last year, and during the past 15 months he has assembled an industry-leading team of both staff and technicians,” Richard Allender, director of U.S. operations for Alexander Marine International, said in a statement.
“His efforts have resulted in creating the leading commission/servicing department of any yacht manufacturer in South Florida. Justin’s extensive experience in the yachting industry, coupled with his leadership skill, played a key role in the expansion of our service resources in Florida.”
Gutierrez will be responsible for all manufacturing operations in Merritt Island. The company said he was an integral part of the team that broke ground on the manufacturing facility where the Ocean Alexander 70e is built. Gutierrez began his career in the marine industry in 1999 after serving in the Marine Corps, where he received the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal for service in combat.
“Jonathan has been with us since the start and brings strong knowledge of yacht building to the team,” said Justin Barnhill, vice president of Merritt Island Boat Works. “With his collaborative approach of leadership, he’s assisted the team to produce the best yacht in its class and continues to find ways to improve our manufacturing processes daily.”
