MDL Marinas has appointed Daniel Chown as financial director and Sophie Kirkpatrick as head of sales and marketing.
The appointments come as MDL launches a multi-million-pound 2026/27 investment strategy designed to reinforce its position as the UK’s leading marina group.
Capital projects are planned across the company’s portfolio, with the business investing in both its infrastructure and its leadership team.
Chown has 19 years of senior finance experience across multiple sectors. In his new role, he is responsible for financial strategy, forecasting, governance and operational efficiency.
As we invest significantly across our marina network, it is vital that we have strong financial leadership and clear commercial direction.
James Barnes
Kirkpatrick has senior leadership experience across the leisure, tourism and hospitality sectors. She will lead the sales and marketing strategy, focusing on long-term brand building, customer acquisition, retention and loyalty, product development and revenue growth across MDL’s marinas, holiday parks and gym brands.
April marks the start of MDL’s latest investment programme, with the first phrase of capital projects planned at five key marinas.
The programme includes four new waterfront restaurants, upgraded berth holder facilities, specialist berthing for narrowboats and jet skis, building refurbishments and improved parking across several locations.
Clear commercial direction
Across the wider portfolio of 19 marinas, MDL will continue its pontoon renewal programme and roll out the Meter MACS system to improve electricity supply for berth holders.
At Ocean Village Marina, the company will launch its Leadership Academy and Career Pathway programme to support colleague development.
“We are delighted to welcome Daniel and Sophie to the business at such an important time for MDL,” said James Barnes, managing director of MDL Marinas.
“As we invest significantly across our marina network, it is vital that we have strong financial leadership and clear commercial direction.
“These appointments ensure we are well positioned to deliver our growth strategy while continuing to provide outstanding facilities and experiences for our customers.”
