New NMMA President-elect reaches out to members

The new president-elect of the National Marine Manufacturers Association addressed members through a letter to members saying “it is a privilege to join NMMA.”

Frank Hugelmeyer, who officially joined the organization on July 15, brings a wealth of work experience in outdoor and sporting goods retail, manufacturing and association management (Outdoor Industry Association and Recreation Vehicle Industry Association).

He said running a great trade association is about creating
indispensable value for members.

“I manage trade associations much like a public company. Members are the shareholder/owners and it is the job of management to raise the total market cap of the industry, generate greater return for members, and leave the organization in better shape than inherited.”

Hugelmeyer added that his primary goal over the coming months is to integrate into the NMMA culture and work to maintain the momentum Thom (Dammrich) and the team have created.

“Leading up to October 1st as I prepare to formally assume the helm, I look forward to speaking with as many members as possible to learn about the ‘burning issues’ impacting your operation. If the association can continue to address the critical issues keeping you awake at night, your value in NMMA will only grow.”

Hugelmeyer does have an interest – and background – in recreational boating. He grew up on Long Island, New York, and when he was a kid, camped every summer at Fire Island on his family’s 28-foot Seabird, which was purchased at the New York Boat Show.

Docked alongside their beloved sportfishing boat he said, was an extended family armada owned by grandparents, uncles, and cousins that included a Chris-Craft, Pembroke, Egg Harbor, Hatteras, Robalo, and Cobia.

“Spending time on the water has been a cherished family tradition and that commitment to the boating lifestyle continues to this day.”