Yamaha U.S. Marine Business Unit promoted Scott Higgins to General Manager of Marine Engine Systems Sales and Marketing. Higgins, a Yamaha team member since 2003, will oversee strategic direction for marine engine systems sales and marketing initiatives and reports to Vice President Mark Tracy.
Brunswick Boat Group announced Brad Zoelle's appointment as President of Boston Whaler, succeeding Lenn Scholz. Zoelle brings extensive leadership experience from Mercury Marine and Sea Ray, while Jerry Newton was named Vice President of Operations for Boston Whaler.
Yamaha U.S. Marine Business Unit announced that Matt Lester has accepted the position of Regional Sales Manager. Lester, who began his career with Yamaha in 2012, will support dealer growth and sales performance across his assigned region and reports to Ron Campbell, National Dealer Sales Manager.
Yamaha U.S. Marine Business Unit appointed Mitch Feathers as Operations Manager, where he leads the Outboard Operations and Outboard Demand Planning teams. Feathers, a five-year Yamaha employee, reports to Supply Chain Director Corey Turnbow and will oversee sales order management, customer service, demand forecasting, and production planning.
Professional angler Mike Iaconelli announced that 2026 will be his final year competing full-time on the Bassmaster Elite Series. The Bass Fishing Hall of Fame inductee, known for winning the Bassmaster Classic in 2003 and the B.A.S.S. Federation National title in 1999, plans to shift focus toward content creation, The Bass University, and brand partnerships while maintaining limited competitive fishing.
Yamaha U.S. Marine Business Unit announced that John Augustiniak is the new General Manager of G3 Boats. Augustiniak brings over 30 years of operational leadership experience, including previous roles at Yamaha Marine Rotational Molders and Amazon, and will oversee manufacturing, operations, sales, marketing and logistics for G3 Boats.
Hardy announces the passing of Jim Murphy, Director of Fly Fishing who spent 37 years in the industry. Jon Schlosser, Chief Product and Brand Officer at Pure Fishing, praised Murphy's dedication to the Hardy legacy and fly-fishing community. A celebration of life is scheduled for February 28th in Stuart, Florida.