Chris Baird has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of MC-ZERO, the pioneering yacht tender brand created through a collaboration between McConaghy Boats and ZeroJet.
For those who know Chris, the appointment will come as little surprise. A long-standing and highly respected figure in the marine industry, he has spent more than 25 years helping build, grow and reposition some of the sector’s best-known brands.
His career has placed him at the forefront of businesses including Navman, Fusion, Garmin and Propspeed, where his commercial acumen, product understanding and ability to identify opportunity have contributed to a number of notable industry success stories. More recently, through YESSSS, Chris has continued to support marine businesses seeking strategic guidance, growth, structure and renewed direction.
While YESSSS continues to grow under the leadership of fellow Director and CEO Nona Pedersen, Chris has increasingly been drawn into another area of deep interest: the future of marine technology.
That pathway saw him take on the role of Executive Director of ZeroJet and Tectrax, two New Zealand businesses focused on innovation, electrification and next-generation marine mobility. His latest appointment as CEO of MC-ZERO now brings together that passion for technology with one of the most exciting new entrants in the yacht tender market.
MC-ZERO has been developed as a collaboration between McConaghy Boats, globally recognised for its advanced composite construction and high-performance yacht building, and ZeroJet, a specialist in electric jet propulsion systems.
Matt Forbes with Chris Baird
MCZ 450
The brand is already making its mark with the international debut of the MC-ZERO 450 (4.5-metre) tender at Palm Beach International Boat Show. Built entirely from carbon fibre and powered by what is described as a world-first twin electric jet system, the vessel has been designed to challenge traditional expectations of the tender category. The 450 also introduces a patent-pending movable helm, providing a level of versatility not commonly found in the market. They have also recently released their smaller model, the 325 (3.25-metre), offering a generous internal capacity in a smaller package.
With Chris now leading the business, MC-ZERO combines proven marine industry leadership, advanced boatbuilding expertise and emerging electric propulsion technology.
Chris has never been one to stand still, and his appointment signals an exciting next chapter for both him and the MC-ZERO brand. Backed by the capability of McConaghy Boats and the innovation of ZeroJet, MC-ZERO is positioning itself as a serious force in the future of yacht tenders.
Marine Business News congratulates Chris on his appointment and looks forward to following the progress of MC-ZERO as it enters the market.
Chris will be attending Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show and is taking meetings with potential customers who are interested. You can contact him via this link: https://www.mc-zerotenders.com/scibs
For more information, visit the MC-ZERO website: https://www.mc-zerotenders.com/
