Hydro Tec appoints new COO and CTO

Yacht design and naval architecture firm Hydro Tec has announced the appointment of Nicola Camuffo as chief technical officer (CTO), while Michele Lauriero has been named chief operating officer (COO). Both will work alongside Sergio Cutolo, president and founder of Hydro Tec.

Hydro Tec, founded in 1995, operates across three offices in Italy and one in Hong Kong. The company says its continued growth in recent years has led to an internal reorganisation aimed at improving operational efficiency and coordination among its business divisions. Hydro Tec operates through three divisions: engineering, design and nesting.

Nicola Camuffo, from Venice, has nearly three decades of experience in naval architecture and yacht design. His career has included roles at Azimut-Benetti Group, Fincantieri, Oceanco, Perini Navi, Rolls-Royce Solutions, and most recently, Tankoa Yachts, where he served as CTO. At Hydro Tec, he will lead design processes, introduce new engineering technologies and oversee the technical office.

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Michele Lauriero has 25 years of experience in the maritime industry, beginning his career as a chief engineer in the Italian Navy. He later took on roles in shipbuilding and operational management across Europe and Asia. His past roles have included positions at Fashion Yachts, Mediterranea di Navigazione, Group Piriou, VIMATEC Engineering, Ferretti Superyacht, and Cantiere Navale Vittoria. At Hydro Tec, he will oversee internal operations, integrate project management functions, and support the development of the Marine Nest and Yacht Engineering divisions.

Sergio Cutolo, president and founder of Hydro Tec, says: “In recent years, Hydro Tec has evolved its organisational model, transitioning from a professional studio to a fully structured enterprise. Today, we have a highly qualified and diverse team, and we are continuously strengthening it.”

He adds: “The arrival of Nicola and Michele represents a fundamental step in our growth and innovation journey, reinforcing our structure to provide a more specialised and integrated service to clients, shipyards, and owners. Their vast experience in shipbuilding and operations will be a valuable asset for our shipyard partners, allowing us to support them in an even more targeted and effective manner. This marks the beginning of a broader corporate consolidation process that we are pursuing. In the coming months, Hydro Tec will announce additional strategic initiatives to support the new organisational structure, reaffirming our commitment to growth and innovation in the industry.”

Nicola Camuffo, chief technical officer, says: “I am excited to join Hydro Tec at such a significant time for the company. Our industry is evolving rapidly, and my goal is to enhance Hydro Tec’s technical excellence. We will work closely with all departments to strengthen our leadership in the sector.”

Michele Lauriero, chief operating officer, adds: “It is an honour to join Hydro Tec during this extraordinary phase of growth and at such a dynamic time for our industry. I will bring all my accumulated expertise to help the company, as a cohesive and competent team, meet the increasingly demanding market expectations. Our key focus areas will be innovation, efficiency, quality, and excellence in all our projects.”