West Marine names Paulee Day as first female CEO

West Marine has appointed Paulee Day as chief executive officer. Day, who has served as West Marine’s chief operating officer and corporate secretary since February 2025, becomes the first woman to lead the company since its founding in 1968. 

Day has been with the marine retailer since 2022, initially joining as chief legal and human resources officer. She was promoted to chief administrative officer in January 2024 and assumed the role of COO earlier this year. 

She comments: “I have greatly enjoyed my time at West Marine and am delighted the Board of Directors has selected me to be the CEO. Over the past few years, West Marine has significantly transformed its retail and online operations through a heightened focus on core boating, strong vendor relationships and streamlined operations.”

In her previous positions, Day oversaw the company’s more than 200 retail locations, West Marine Pro, and key operational areas, including marketing, merchandising, supply chain, business development, legal, human resources, real estate, risk management, and procurement. 

Under Day’s leadership, West Marine has expanded its fulfillment capabilities, including same-day and next-day delivery, from locations strategically positioned near marinas and boating communities. The company serves retail and professional customers across 34 states, Puerto Rico and online. 

“West Marine will continue to strengthen its long-term relationships with vendors, provide superior service to customers, including best-in-class product know-how, and offer fundamental and innovative marine parts and accessories,” adds Day.

As a lifelong boater, Day brings extensive experience from the Marine industry, including 15 years at Marine Max as executive vice president, chief legal officer and assistant secretary. She also serves on the boards of directors of the American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC) and the Florida Chamber of Commerce.