CMP Group appoints Michael Szwez as CEO

CMP Group has appointed Michael Szwez as CEO as part of a new leadership structure intended to bring decision-making closer to customers across North America, Europe and Asia-Pacific.

Canada-based CMP Group serves recreational and commercial marine markets through brands including Martyr, Rocna/Vulcan, Titan, DockEdge+, Panther and Octopus. Its product areas include corrosion protection, anchoring and ground tackle, steering and controls, docking systems and marine accessories, with teams and operations across North America, Europe and Asia-Pacific.

Szwez has 30 years of marine industry experience. He began his career with Dock Edge and joined CMP Group in 2016 as vice president of marketing. Szwez became senior vice president of sales and marketing in 2025, with responsibility for customer relationships and support for the sales organisation.

His appointment follows Pete Samson’s tenure as interim CEO. Samson will continue to represent and support CMP Group through Ironbridge Equity Partners.

“Our industry is changing, and it’s being defined by new technologies, changing sales channels and elevating customer expectations,” says Szwez. “We will continue to execute our strategic vision and core competencies to achieve sustained long-term growth and deliver exceptional value to our marine partners. I am honoured to lead our team as we design the next chapter of our brands and grow our customer relationships, with a relentless focus on quality, innovation, and service.”

Under the new structure, each region has responsibility for its operations while remaining connected to a common global strategy.

Fabien Vignes to focus on Asia-Pacific

In Asia-Pacific, Fabien Vignes, international business development manager, will focus exclusively on the region after previously covering responsibilities across Oceania and Europe.

“I am excited to focus on developing new territories, strengthening our position in existing markets and giving CMP customers even greater support,” says Vignes. “Asia-Pacific is one of the fastest-growing regions for the marine industry, with strong momentum in boat maintenance and boat manufacturing. As fleets, marinas and marine infrastructure expand across the region, we have a significant opportunity to extend our reach and support more customers.”

In North America, Tyler Seebach, vice president, sales – distribution, OEM & manufacturing, continues to lead sales across distribution, OEM and manufacturing. Darrick Lemaster, vice president, commercial sales & supply chain, continues to oversee CMP’s commercial marine business and operations in Suffolk, Virginia.

“Michael brings a deep understanding of our industry, our customers, our brands and the opportunities ahead for CMP,” says Seebach. “His appointment provides continuity and stability for our business while bringing our regional teams together around a clear global strategy. I look forward to working with Michael and our teams across CMP to strengthen customer relationships, grow our sales, and build toward our next phase of growth.”

In Europe, Marco Piacenza, general manager of CMP Europe, continues to lead the European business through its internal team and external sales network.