One thing is for certain: behind every product we touch, use, or interact with on the water, there is always a human element. Every innovation begins with someone who has nurtured an idea, revived an older concept for a modern era, or simply identified a practical solution to the evolving needs, and sometimes the wants, of everyday boaties.
Justin Celauro – Product and Business Manager Dometic
One such person is Justin Celauro, Product and Business Manager at Dometic.
With formal training in Science and Mechanical Engineering, complemented by further studies in Business, it is easy to see why Justin has achieved the success he has.
He brings a rare combination of technical insight, commercial sensibility, and an instinctive understanding of how people use products in real-world conditions.
Having been part of the Dometic family since 2012, Justin says, “Working at Dometic gives us the opportunity to make a big difference in an exciting industry.
It’s great to work with a team that truly ‘plays to win.’ Every day brings a new exciting challenge to conquer.”
His words ring true. While he may not interact daily with all 8,000 of Dometic’s employees across the globe, his immediate network, colleagues, trusted partners, engineers, designers, and confidants he has cultivated worldwide, provides the momentum and inspiration he needs to continually bring new, renewed, and desirable products to market.
Justin’s work is felt in the products that elevate our boating lifestyle, whether they solve small frustrations, introduce new conveniences, or deliver major leaps forward in comfort and capability. Understanding how he thinks, what drives his decisions, and how he sees the next decade of marine innovation unfolding may give us all a deeper appreciation of how the products we rely on come to life.
Marine Business News spoke with Justin. This is what he had to say.
You work across a remarkably wide range of product categories at Dometic. Can you describe the breadth of that portfolio and what it’s like managing innovation across so many different technologies and user needs?
Managing such a diverse portfolio certainly comes with challenges, but it’s made possible by an incredible team with a strong focus on success. Their dedication is the reason we consistently launch innovative products that keep the customer at the centre. The other key is understanding customer needs. This helps us prioritise what matters most for each product category. With that focus, we can deliver meaningful innovations across the board.
How do you personally distinguish between a vague opportunity and a concept with real commercial and user-driven potential? What characteristics tell you something is worth pursuing?
The key is not working in a bubble. It’s essential to engage with customers throughout the value chain to understand what truly delivers value. A concept shows real potential when it resonates across all stakeholders: it simplifies processes for OEMs, creates upgrade opportunities for dealers, and excites end users with new features.
Can you walk us through your process; from the moment an idea first appears to the point it becomes a product on the market? What stages matter most?
Listening and staying connected to the market is the most critical step. Some projects span years, so knowing when to pivot, even midstream, is vital. Once we validate an idea with customers and sales, we assess its financial viability. Next, we define clear requirements for engineering, which I consider the most crucial phase. Giving engineering a clear vision ensures success. Finally, we collaborate with marketing to communicate features and benefits effectively, while providing the technical details customers need.
Of all the products you’ve helped deliver since joining Dometic, is there one that gave you the greatest satisfaction or represented the biggest breakthrough? Why that one?
I had the benefit of working as an engineer for this category before I accepted the role as a product manager. During this change, I worked doing design work and now I’m launching the GVTX as a product manager. I’ve been deeply involved in the project from the beginning and I’m proud of what the team has launched. It is truly a jump in innovation for our industry and I’ve had the pleasure of being intimately involved from the start.
How do you and your team gather insights into what boaters actually want? Is it data, feedback, gut instinct, or a mix of everything?
It’s a mix, but direct engagement is the most valuable. Attending boat shows has been the best way to close the feedback loop. Technical shows like IBEX and METS allow us to connect with boat builders and designers, while consumer-focused shows like FLIBS give us direct access to end users. Face-to-face conversations let us ask follow-up questions and build relationships, which is critical for understanding real needs.
From your perspective, what major changes do you believe will shape the marine industry in the next decade, and how is Dometic preparing for them?
Electrification and energy efficiency will dominate the next decade. HVAC systems are typically the largest energy consumers on boats, so improving efficiency is a priority for both small vessels and superyachts. More efficient equipment reduces energy costs, whether power comes from batteries or generators, and we’re actively developing solutions to meet that demand.
Is artificial intelligence already influencing how you research, develop, and bring new products to market? If so, in what ways?
It’s important that we use these latest tools to find new ways of looking at data and evaluating trends. I use it every day to help become more efficient and discover new ways to look at challenges. However, I’ve found many AI responses have false answers and “hallucinations” that can be incorrect. It’s important to thoroughly review and fact check all responses to ensure we are making decisions based in reality.
Looking further ahead, do you see AI becoming embedded in the products themselves? How might AI change the way boaters interact with onboard systems?
Definitely. AI offers tremendous potential to enhance the boating experience. We’re actively exploring ways to integrate AI into our products to improve usability and customer satisfaction. I’m excited about what’s coming and look forward to sharing these innovations when they’re ready.
How do you maintain creativity and ambitious thinking while still ensuring that products are reliable, manufacturable, and aligned with Dometic’s brand expectations?
Avoiding routine is essential. I stay fresh by looking outside the marine industry for developments we can adapt. Working directly in the factory is also critical because it allows me to take ideas and test them with the people doing the work. I enjoy being able to walk from my desk to the factory floor and see prototypes coming to life. This hands-on approach keeps us nimble in design development and shortens the communication loop.
After more than a decade at Dometic, what continues to motivate you? What is it about the marine sector, and the people within it, that keeps you energised?
What could be better than working in an industry centred around leisure and enjoyment? I get to see ideas transform into products that enhance our customers’ time on the water. Solving complex challenges and turning them into innovative solutions is incredibly rewarding, and that’s what keeps me motivated.
For more information about Dometic – Visit their website HERE
