GMBA expands global reach with new appointments

Global Marine Business Advisors (GMBA) has announced the appointment of two new industry experts to its team, expanding the group’s global reach.

Knut Heiberg-Andersen from Norway and Goetz-Ulf Jungmichel from Germany bring additional expertise to the GMBA and industry knowledge across the boat show, military and boat building sectors.

Heiberg-Andersen offers the group a wealth of experience having worked for Windy Boats Scandinavia for the past 30 years. Starting in sales and marketing and rising to Executive Chairman, he was responsible for driving the global reputation of Windy Boats with his visionary skills and talents being major factors in Windy Boats’ success. Presented with a lifetime achievement award at the 2021 Motorboats Awards for his exceptional contribution to the industry, Heiberg-Andersen is a strong addition to the GMBA team.

“I am excited to join GMBA and utilise the knowledge and expertise I have developed over so many years to assist those companies wishing to enter or expand their global markets,” says Heiberg-Andersen. “This is never an easy task but when you have the networks we have developed it certainly can cut through the mire to get outcomes a lot more quickly and cost effectively.”

Jouko Huju, GMBA Finland comments: “Knut has worked all over the world and has extensive knowledge on global boat production. Knut has been a major player in developing not only the Norwegian marine industry, but also played an important role in establishing the European Boating Industry 13 years ago.” 

Goetz-Ulf Jungmichel is a highly experienced and dedicated leader with a passion for ensuring organisations stay viable into the future whilst maintaining their inherent culture. Jungmichel comes to GMBA with a strong background in exhibition and boat show management having been a Director of boot Dusseldorf and recently a Division Head for Reed Exhibitions Germany. He has also held senior positions with the German Sailing Federation and, as a Colonel of the German Army Reserves, he undertook the role of project officer for NATO manoeuvres, leading teams and managing logistics and strategy. 

Of Jungmichel’s appointment, Theo Lingmont, GMBA Holland, comments:

“Goetz developed boot Düsseldorf the world’s biggest boat show to a whole new standard.  He also has hands-on experience on the challenges of sailing around the world.  His vision made him president of International Federation of Boat Show Organisers (IFBSO).  Goezt will bring GMBA considerable knowledge not only of the German marine industry but of many international markets.”

Like all GMBA consultants, the networks that Heiberg-Andersen and Jungmichel have developed over their careers is extensive and valuable to those businesses wanting to enter global markets.

These appointments extend the international presence of GMBA to 17 countries around the globe increasing the global footprint and expertise GMBA can offer to the marine industry.

GMBA consultants now reside in the UK, France, Finland, Holland, Singapore, Australia, Dubai, Spain, Russia, Italy, South Africa, Turkey, Poland, USA, Sweden, Norway and Germany.  The extensive network of the GMBA is assisting marine businesses across the globe to drive growth and success in this current environment.