Aluminum workboat builder Silver Ships, Theodore, Ala., has appointed Patrick Payne as chief financial officer, bringing more than 30 years of experience in accounting, financial reporting, and corporate administration to the company’s leadership team.
In the role, Payne will support Silver Ships’ growth strategy and focus on operational efficiencies as the boatbuilder continues to expand production for military, law enforcement, and government customers, Silver Ships said in a press release.
“Reaching the position of CFO is the ultimate goal for an accountant,” said Payne. “To have the opportunity to serve as CFO at Silver Ships – one of the most interesting businesses I’ve worked for – and support the team in achieving its vision means a lot to me and will be a fulfilling way to round out my career.”
Payne’s background includes 16 years with Great Southern Wood Preserving, where he served as assistant chief financial officer and later technical director of internal audit, as well as a decade as corporate controller for Dairy Fresh Corporation. His experience spans financial oversight, mergers and acquisitions, and administrative operations within manufacturing-focused organizations.
He also served 31 years in the Alabama Army National Guard, retiring in 2015 with the rank of lieutenant colonel. Silver Ships noted that approximately 30% of its workforce is made up of U.S. military veterans.
“Silver Ships serves the military, law enforcement and other government agencies with high-quality vessels, so I take a lot of pride in being part of that initiative,” Payne said. “Some employers view military service in the National Guard as an inconvenience, but Silver Ships leadership saw it as a plus and when I had the opportunity to meet the veterans on the team early on, I recognized their mindset and seriousness surrounding their work. It’s great to be on a team with a lot of veterans.”
Company CEO Steven Clarke said Payne’s addition comes as Silver Ships continues to scale its operations.
“We are pleased to welcome Patrick to the Silver Ships team and know his experience and knowledge will help further our mission,” Clarke said. “As our business continues to grow and innovate to meet customer needs, it is imperative to add great people to our team.”
