Boating Industry names Mark Schwabero Mover and Shaker of the Year

TAMPA, Fla. – Mark Schwabero, Chairman and CEO Brunswick Corp., has been named the 2018 Boating Industry Mover & Shaker of the Year.

Boating Industry Editor-in-Chief Tim Hennagir presented Schwabero with the award during the IBEX Industry Breakfast Tuesday morning at the Tampa Waterside Marriott Hotel.

“The 8th annual Movers & Shakers Awards recognizes leaders who haven’t been afraid to take chances in rethinking the way they do business,” Hennagir said. “Clearly, Mark has embraced the challenges facing Brunswick. His leadership has driven substantial strategic and operational enhancements that are strengthening the company’s marine portfolio.”

Boating Industry also recognized three other industry leaders as finalists for the Mover & Shaker of the Year award:

• Samuel Fulton, Boats Group
• Amanda Levandowski, Charlotte Ski Boats
• Tracy Crocker, BRP Marine Group

Hennagir said Schwabero was chosen as Mover & Shaker of the Year because he continues to chart an ambitious course for Brunswick’s marine operations.

Approximately 77 percent of Brunswick’s 2017 revenue – approximately $3.7 billion – was generated by its marine operations, including its engine segment, which manufactures and distributes marine propulsion systems and related parts and accessories, and the Brunswick Boat Group, which manufactures and distributes 14 recreational boat brands. 

Schwabero directed Brunswick to take a fresh and hard look at the marine marketplace and how the company was positioned for growth. 

Mercury Marine responded with a game-changing rejuvenation and expansion of its outboard engine portfolio, culminating with unprecedented release of nearly 20 next-generation V8 and V6 Four-Stroke outboard engine models earlier this year. 

The introductions represent the largest product development project in Mercury’s 79-year history.

“Mark’s initiative and drive have shaken up the company and the entire industry,” Hennagir said. “He has driven Brunswick’s continuing efforts to hone and execute a go-to-market strategy that not only advances the company within the global marine marketplace, but bolsters its fundamental strengths and capabilities.”

To read more about Schwabero and the rest of the 2018 Boating Industry Movers & Shakers, read our full coverage in the October issue.