The National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) announced its new president Frank Hugelmeyer. He replaces Thom Dammrich, the NMMA’s leader for 20 years before retiring in 2018.
Hugelmeyer previously served as president of the RV Industry Association (RVIA) since 2015. RVIA represents the $50 billion RV industry with over 400 member businesses made up of manufacturers and aftermarket suppliers. While president, Hugelmeyer led an industrywide consumer campaign and strengthened ties between other outdoor-focused industries. Before the RVIA, Hugelmeyer was president and CEO of the Outdoor Industry Association for 14 years.
“Frank brings extensive experience and expertise in outdoor recreation and association management to NMMA, making him the ideal growth-minded leader for the recreational boating industry,” said NMMA Chairman Ben Speciale in a recent press release. “We look forward to his leadership and strategic vision as he guides our industry through ever-changing economic and political landscapes.”
The NMMA is a trade organization focused on promoting and protecting recreational boating through advocacy and market expansion. Hugelmeyer is joining the organization in the middle of a three-year strategic plan focused on research, industry promotion, recruiting new boat owners, and workforce development.
“We conducted a thorough search over the last year to find the right person for this important leadership role for the marine industry, and Frank’s tenure in outdoor recreation-related industry associations was unparalleled,” said Bill Watters, former NMMA chairman and leader of the search committee for the next president. “He is a tremendous addition to the NMMA team and the recreational boating industry, and we welcome him aboard.”
After a transition period, Hugelmeyer will officially take over as president on October 1, 2019. “I am honored and grateful to the NMMA board for the appointment to lead this remarkable organization of dedicated and talented professionals working to advocate for recreational boating,” said Hugelmeyer. “Boating and fishing are vital economic drivers and treasured American pastimes, so this is a special opportunity to combine my professional expertise with a lifestyle that personally means so much to me.”
