Management restructure for Bainbridge International

Bainbridge International has reorganised its management with four new divisions created to deliver a tighter focus. Key product lines and stock management for each division will now fall under individual managers’ remits, along with development and growth plans.

“These strategic changes have been in the planning for a while and are poised to bolster our long-term vision for product development and manufacturing across all divisions,” says Laurence Mead, executive chairman. He’s stepped into a day-to-day leadership role within the company. “In the immediate future, we expect this refined approach to instil a sense of ownership and sharp focus within our teams. Our new focus on product sector management will, I am sure, deliver benefits for both existing and new customers going forward.”

Michael Cole has taken on full commercial responsibility for the company’s sailcloth and sailmakers division. As one of the leading players in the sailcloth industry, Bainbridge says it is committed to the development of new products and has plans to present these at METSTRADE 2024. Cole will also manage stock levels, with a never-out-of-stock policy on core sailmaker products.

The cover and industrial fabrics division, as well as covermaking, will be looked after by Gavin Lacey. He will focus on both sales and commercial development as Bainbridge builds on its established business, and seeks to move into new markets.

Boris Webber will continue to manage the company’s AquaMarine brand but will have a renewed focus on OEM and shipyard accounts. This has been a growth area for Bainbridge with its Coverguard brand (offering flame retardant temporary protection for refit and refurb).

John Parkes becomes national sales manager for the chandlery sector (he’s been south west sales manager for the past two years). Parkes will be intimately involved in stock management and range planning going forward.

“Looking forward, the enduring benefits are clear: sustained growth, fortified market positioning, and a culture of heightened innovation,” continues Mead. “Ultimately, our aim is to please our customers with enhanced product quality, an expanded array of services, and elevated levels of satisfaction. This isn’t merely a strategic pivot; it’s a steadfast commitment to delivering unparalleled value and excellence across all facets of our operations.” He says he is looking forward to the next METSTRADE as that will be an opportunity to bring some of the new products to market. “In the interim we are all-hands-on-deck to support customers through the busy spring period.”

With Bainbridge having taken over the global distribution of TeamO Marine Safety Products eight months ago, Oscar Mead has joined the Bainbridge management team in charge of the TeamO division. TeamO patented BackTow lifejackets, which are running well ahead of the brand’s previous best-ever year.

Main image courtesy of Sail Design, Italy.