The Burger Boat Company, Manitowoc, Wisc., on Oct. 1 announced transitions in its leadership team that position “the company for meaningful growth across its new construction yacht, commercial vessel, military vessel and refit/repair segments.”

 Jim Ruffolo, Burger’s president and CEO of 15 years, was named chairman. In his new role, Ruffolo “will focus on long-term strategic oversight and governance, continuing his commitment to the endurance and craftsmanship that define the Burger brand,” according to a company statement.

After more than 15 years as president and CEO, Jim Ruffolo was named chairman of the Burger Boat Company.

     Other members of the Burger Boat Company’s new executive leadership team are:

·       Nick Siler, appointed to the role of president and CEO. Siler brings extensive leadership experience from senior and executive roles at Modine Manufacturing Company, Bradley Corporation, and most recently Enercon Industries Corporation. Siler will lead the executive team and focus “on strengthening company strategy, enhancing organizational culture, driving performance, and advancing continuous improvement and sustainable growth across the business.”

Nick Siler has been appointed president and CEO of Burger Boat Company.

·       Rich Thompson, assumes the new role of chief sales and marketing officer.

·       David Villaras the company’s chief operating officer, is responsible for the company’s shipyard and joinery operations, including engineering, construction, supply chain, program management, and quality/continuous improvement teams.

·       Tom Connor, a veteran of over 20 years atBurger Boat veteran, will continue in his current role of chief financial officer in this new team structure.

“Burger has built its reputation on craftsmanship, innovation, and strong relationships,” said Ruffolo. “These leadership appointments position us to deepen our capabilities, expand our and strengthen our ability to deliver exceptional vessels in every segment we serve.”

“Our new and existing teams are hard at work for a ‘re-imagining’ of our company”, said  Siler. “To lead a company with 162 years of history towards that growth horizon is not just an honor - it’s a responsibility I welcome. It’s a privilege to join forces with Tom as well as Rich and David in their new executive roles and I look forward to working closely with them and our entire Burger team.'

"We are committed to building on Burger’s tradition of endurance and craftsmanship by focusing our organization around four core pillars: our people, our culture, sustainable growth and a relentless commitment to quality and continuous improvement.”