Burger Boat Company has restructured its leadership team to position the company for growth across its different segments.
After over three decades of leadership, and more than 15 years as president and chief executive officer (CEO), Jim Ruffolo is now chairman of Burger Boat Company.
In his new role, Jim will focus on long-term strategic oversight and governance. Nick Siler has been appointed to the role of president and CEO.
Nick brings leadership experience from senior and executive roles at Modine Manufacturing Company, Bradley Corporation, and most recently, Enercon Industries Corporation.
In his new role, he will report directly to the Board and lead the executive team. His focus will be on strengthening company strategy, enhancing organisational culture, driving performance, and advancing continuous improvement and sustainable growth across the business.
Business development
Rich Thompson has taken on the new role of chief sales and marketing officer, leading business development across all segments.
Rich will also lead brand development, marketing, and product management.
Together, he and Nick will co-lead strategic planning for the organisation.
Rich joins Burger Boat with experience from senior and executive roles at Illinois Tool Works, DuPont, and Newell Rubbermaid.
As the company’s chief operating officer, David Villar will be responsible for the company’s shipyard and joinery operations, including engineering, construction, supply chain, program management, and quality/continuous improvement teams.
Capability and capacity
His leadership will focus on expanding operational capability and capacity, while ensuring excellence in client project delivery and innovation in its operations.
David brings experience from senior and executive roles at GE Healthcare, GE Power & Water, Bradley Corporation, and most recently, Perlick Corporation.
Tom Connor, who has worked at Burger Boat for more than 20 years, will continue in his current role of chief financial officer.
He will be responsible for the finance, human resource, information technology, and legal functional areas of the company.
We are committed to building on Burger’s tradition of endurance and craftsmanship.
Nick Siler
“Burger has built its reputation on craftsmanship, innovation, and strong relationships,” explained Jim Ruffolo.
“These leadership appointments position us to deepen our capabilities, expand our reach, and strengthen our ability to deliver exceptional vessels in every segment we serve.”
Nick Siler added: “Our new and existing teams are hard at work for a ‘re-imagining’ of our company.
Core pillars
“To lead a company with 162 years of history towards that growth horizon is not just an honour – 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 organisation around four core pillars: our people, our culture, sustainable growth and a relentless commitment to quality and continuous improvement.”
