Burger Boat Company, Manitowoc, announced transition in its leadership team with a new president and chief executive officer.
After over three decades of hands-on leadership and 15 years as president and CEO, Jim Ruffolo has completed his transition to chairman of Burger Boat Company. In his new role, Jim will focus on long-term strategic oversight and governance.
Nick Siler was appointed president and chief executive officer. He brings extensive leadership experience from senior and executive roles at Modine Manufacturing Company, Bradley Corporation, and most recently, Enercon Industries Corporation. Siler will report directly to the board and lead the executive team.
Rich Thompson assumes the new role of chief sales and marketing officer. Ihe leads business development across all segments—including yachts, commercial vessels, military vessels, and repair/refit services. he also will lead brand development, marketing, and product management to further elevate Burger’s sales and market presence. Together, he and Nick will co-lead strategic planning for the organization. Rich brings a wealth of experience from senior and executive roles at Illinois Tool Works, DuPont, and Newell Rubbermaid, and is well-positioned to drive growth and innovation across the organization.
David Villar, as the company’s chief operating officer. He is responsible for the company’s shipyard and joinery operations, including engineering, construction, supply chain, program management, and quality/continuous improvement teams. His leadership will focus on expanding operational capability and capacity, while ensuring excellence in client project delivery and innovation in its operations. He brings operational expertise from senior and executive roles at GE Healthcare, GE Power & Water, Bradley Corporation, and most recently, Perlick Corporation.
Tom Connor, a more than 20-year Burger Boat veteran, will continue in his current role of chief financial officer in this new team structure, with leadership responsibilities for the finance, human resource, Information technology, and legal functional areas of the company.
