Grant Hooper has been appointed CEO of Zeelander Yachts, the Dutch-based builder said in a statement.
Hooper joins Zeelander with more than two decades of experience in the marine industry, including an 18-year stint with Princess Yachts, where he served as purchasing director. Hopper joined fellow U.K. brand Fairline Yachts in 2019 as commercial and supply-chain director.
“I’ve long admired Zeelander as a top-end boatbuilder and watched as the brand has grown its name and portfolio of products,” said Hooper in a statement. “I’m excited to now be a part of that ongoing expansion and I’m working with the development team to continue creating unique products that exceed customer expectations, while also building strong relationships with key suppliers and partners.”
With Hooper as CEO, Zeelander said it is “aiming to further develop aftersales services around the globe, carefully extend its range of products,” all while keeping production quantities low to meet high standards.
Currently, the builder produces 55-foot and 72-foot models; its newest vessel, the 48-foot Zeelander 5, is set to premiere in mid-2022.
“I’m confident that Grant’s wealth of experience and industry expertise will ensure the group’s long-term growth plans are realised,” said Zeelander owner and founder Sietse Koopmans. “We have an unprecedented number of boats on order, so we’ve brought in Grant to make certain that these boats are being delivered on time and beyond expectations all around the globe.”
“Grant is extremely focused on building strong supplier relationships and improving organisational structure, whilst maintaining the boutique approach that Zeelander customers value so highly,” added Koopmans.
