Veda Pretorius steps down as Chair; Richard Haws unanimously elected as successor
Global Marine Business Advisors (GMBA), a collaborative network of 18 senior marine industry consultants with strong reputations across key international markets, today announced a significant leadership transition. After three years of exceptional service, Veda Pretorius has stepped down as Chair. The GMBA group has unanimously elected Richard Haws as the new Chair, marking a forward-looking chapter for the organisation.
GMBA continues to be guided by its experienced management team consisting of Richard Haws, Thom Dammrich, Veda Pretorius, MaryAnne Edwards, and Kai Malmivaara, ensuring stability and strategic continuity during this transition.
Celebrating Veda Pretorius’ Impactful Leadership
During her three-year tenure as Chair, Pretorius played a defining role in strengthening GMBA’s global profile and shaping its strategic direction. Under her guidance, GMBA deepened international engagement, strengthened relationships with industry associations, supported developing markets, and provided leadership on key issues.
“It has been a privilege to serve as Chair of GMBA. Our consultants bring extraordinary experience and passion to the marine sector, and I am proud of what we have achieved together.
I look forward to continuing my involvement on the management team as GMBA enters an exciting new phase under Richard’s leadership.”
- Veda Pretorius
Richard Haws
Veda Pretorius
A Fresh Wave of Energy: Richard Haws Appointed Chair
A respected marine industry executive with decades of experience across business development, marina and infrastructure planning, and international market growth, Richard Haws brings renewed drive and vision to the role. His insights into both established and emerging marine economies have made him a strong contributor within GMBA.
“I am honoured by the trust placed in me by my fellow consultants. GMBA has built an exceptional global reputation, thanks in large part to Veda’s leadership.
I am excited to work with the management team and our network of consultants to deepen our impact, strengthen partnerships, and support the industry’s ongoing growth worldwide.”
- Richard HawsGMBA also announced the departure of two highly respected consultants:
- YP Loke (Singapore) — retiring after a distinguished and influential career. Loke has been a central figure in the Asian recreational marine sector, shaping standards, promoting professionalism, and fostering regional–global collaboration and a founding member of GMBA.
- Annika Lindqvist (Sweden) — stepping down to pursue opportunities in other sectors. Annika has been a strong advocate for the Nordic marine industry, contributing expertise in innovation, sustainability, and blue-economy development.
“GMBA is built on the experience and integrity of its consultants, and we are fortunate to have leaders like Veda and Richard guiding us forward,” said Thom Dammrich, speaking on behalf of the GMBA management team. “Veda has led with clarity, passion and a truly global perspective, while Richard brings the energy, insight and drive that will help GMBA strengthen its global impact. We are deeply grateful to YP and Annika for their invaluable contributions and wish them every success in their next chapters.”
Recruitment for New Consultants in Sweden and Singapore
With these transitions, GMBA will be recruiting new consultants to represent Sweden and Singapore. The focus for these appointments will be on appointing experienced professionals with strong regional networks and deep industry insight to ensure GMBA continues to offer comprehensive global coverage.
Those wishing to contact GMBA in Australia can do so through MaryAnne Edwards medwards@gmba.blue or call +61 412 916 036
Global Marine Business Advisors website www.gmba.blue
Global Marine Business Advisors is a registered legal entity and is a network of independent marine industry consultants
About Global Marine Business Advisors (GMBA)
GMBA is a collaboration of 18 senior marine industry advisors with extensive experience across market development, export strategy, marinas and infrastructure, government liaison, leisure marine and superyacht development, and strategic business growth. With consultants based across major global markets, GMBA delivers unparalleled insights and trusted advisory services to marine businesses, associations, investors, and government agencies worldwide.
