Cox Marine restructures leadership ahead of 350 V8 launch
Cox Marine, a British diesel outboard engine manufacturer, has made changes to its board and leadership team ahead of the planned transition to series production, and the upcoming launch of its 350 V8 diesel outboard.
Cox Marine says the leadership changes will take effect from 1 July 2025.
Current chief executive officer Gavin Wesson will move into the role of non-executive chairman, where he will continue to provide strategic oversight. George Bramley, who is currently the chief financial officer, will assume the role of chief executive officer while retaining his CFO responsibilities.
James Eatwell, who has served in various technical roles during more than a decade at Cox Marine, has been appointed chief technical officer. Eatwell previously held the position of technical director and will now be responsible for technical leadership, engineering alignment and product improvement.
The company launched the Cox Marine 350, a 350-horsepower variant of the British firm’s flagship V8 outboard, at the 2024 Miami International Boat Show. After the 350 V8 successfully achieved Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Tier III approval for commercial and recreational applications, the British outboard and diesel pioneer opened its order book in anticipation of production commencing in August 2024. The company is currently progressing through the final validation stages of the outboard.
“Leading Cox Marine’s day-to-day operations for the past three years has been an incredibly rewarding experience,” says Wesson. “I’ve thoroughly enjoyed working alongside the team as we’ve meticulously refined our product and strategically positioned ourselves to disrupt the high-horsepower outboard market.”
He adds: “With the imminent launch of our 350 V8, the time is right to evolve our leadership structure to prioritise series production and sustained growth. I have full confidence that George’s strategic vision and financial acumen, coupled with James’s extensive technical expertise and our non-executive directors’ continued guidance, will propel Cox Marine to even greater heights in this exciting phase. I eagerly anticipate supporting them and the entire team in my new role as non-executive chairman.”
Bramley says: “I am honoured to take on the CEO role at such a pivotal moment for Cox Marine. The launch of the 350 V8 represents a significant milestone, and I am excited to lead the company through this crucial transition to series production and beyond. We have a remarkably talented team, and I am keen to support their continued success in their respective areas.”
In addition to the changes at board level, Adam Gurr, programme director, will leave the company at mid-year. Cox Marine states that Gurr led key product campaigns during his eight-year tenure and will remain through June to support the transition to production for the 350 V8.
Gemma Crocker continues in her role as network development and commercial operations director, overseeing distribution, marketing, product supply and warranties. She works alongside business development director Hugh Hudleston, who was appointed in May 2025. Richard Lind remains supply chain director, with Holly Cooper as people director and Petra Argent continuing as company secretary, a position she has held for 12 years.
