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We are excited to introduce the new executive committee for 2026. Composed of a group of dedicated and experienced individuals, they are committed to advancing the goals of the society.
At the helm is our new President, John Venables, who has served on the ISS Board since January 2008 and has been an active supporter of the Society since its earliest days. With more than 30 years in the yacht industry, John brings extensive experience across both engineering and executive leadership roles. Joining John on the committee is David Good, Matthew Anzardo, Rebecca Taranto and Ron Cleveringa.
Each executive member brings unique skills and expertise to the table, and we are confident that with their leadership, the International Superyacht Society will continue to thrive and provide valuable resources and support to its members.
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How would you describe the goals of the organization, and how does the organization achieve these goals?
Our goals are well-aligned with our mission to build alliances worldwide, and essentially to serve as the collective voice on issues affecting our industry, while recognizing achievement. There are many ways the ISS advances these goals including acting as the leading conduit among related societies and through regional and global committee work, educational programs, networking events, and our design and leadership awards.
What skills and resources do you have to offer and are willing to use on the behalf of the organization?
What makes our society so effective is its broad base of members from all aspects of our industry. Being technically trained, I feel I help bring a voice to all industry suppliers, as well as shipbuilders, designers and architects. I also feel several decades of executive-level business management and corporate directorships helps me to assist the ISS with organizational development and leadership.
Name something the average person doesn’t know about you. I enjoy motorcycles and classic cars, and when time allows, applying my engineering and manufacturing skills to restoring late 1960’s performance cars.
| | Why did you become involved in ISS, and what has your involvement looked like over time? I became involved in the early days of the ISS because I shared our founders view that our industry needs a voice, and that together we are stronger and more effective. Connecting and collaborating with other industry professionals through a wide range of ISS events, and recognizing excellence among our peers at our prestigious design and leadership awards, has strong appeal. It has been my privilege to be elected to the Board of Directors for the last 17 years and I look forward to serving our society as President in 2026. | | |
What experience or perspective do you bring to the Executive Committee that you believe will add value?
Access to Asia Pacific, this is the area that will drive growth in the future. The superyacht industry is growing at a rapid rate from a very low base in our region. This gives me practical insight into the challenges and opportunities facing the industry.
Why do you believe involvement in industry organizations like ISS is important for long-term growth and sustainability? No single company can solve the industry’s biggest challenges—regulation, sustainability, talent, perception—alone. ISS provides the platform for collective and efficient action, shared best practices, advocacy, and innovation. Active involvement ensures our industry remains strong, respected, and sustainable for decades.
What advice would you offer to emerging professionals entering the superyacht industry? Gain diverse experience, seek mentors, and build genuine relationships. The industry is small—your professionalism, work ethic, and network will open doors. Stay curious, adaptable, and committed to excellence.
Is there a key takeaway or message you would like to share with ISS members? We are stronger together. By supporting each other through ISS—attending events, sharing knowledge, nominating for awards, and engaging in initiatives—we elevate the entire industry. Thank you for being part of this community.
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David Good
Vice President
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What motivated you to serve on the ISS Executive Committee? I wanted to help strengthen the superyacht industry’s voice. ISS is the only global organization that brings together every sector—builders, crew, designers, brokers, and suppliers. Serving on the Executive Committee lets me contribute directly to initiatives that drive collaboration, professionalism, and long-term growth.
From your perspective, what role does ISS play in supporting and advancing the superyacht industry today? ISS is the global voice and central platform for the superyacht industry. It connects over 1,200 members across 50+ countries through world-class events, the prestigious Design & Leadership Awards, education programs, talent initiatives like the Talent Pledge, and unified advocacy on key issues such as sustainability and regulation, especially with recent access to a seat on the International Maritime Organisation (IMO).
What area of focus or initiative are you most passionate about during your time on the Executive Committee?
The Talent Pledge. Attracting and training the next generation of skilled professionals (captains, engineers, crew, designers) is critical for the industry’s future. Australian’s have historically made a large component of superyacht crew. I’m passionate about creating clear career pathways and making superyachting an attractive, respected profession.
What do you hope ISS members gain from the Society over the next few years? Stronger networks, tangible business opportunities, access to high-quality education and events, recognition through our awards, and a real sense of community. I want members to feel that ISS helps them grow, adapt to change, and contribute to a thriving, respected industry.
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Matthew Anzardo
Treasurer
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What motivated you to serve on the ISS Executive Committee? After 23 years in this industry, I want to help elevate and celebrate the designers, builders, applicators, and technicians who are the backbone of our sector. These professionals deserve recognition for their passion and craftsmanship, and I want to ensure their voices are heard at the highest levels.
From your perspective, what role does ISS play in supporting and advancing the superyacht industry today? ISS is a leading advocate for the people who make this industry thrive. It connects professionals across disciplines, facilitates knowledge sharing, and demonstrates our sector's significant economic impact on the global economy while championing the standards and professionalism that define us.
What area of focus or initiative are you most passionate about during your time on the Executive Committee?
I'm passionate about bringing innovation and efficiency deeper into our industry. This includes supporting practical solutions like advanced materials and application techniques, fostering training programs, and creating pathways for new technologies to reach the people who need them most.
What do you hope ISS members gain from the Society over the next few years? I hope members gain practical resources—training opportunities, insights into regulatory changes and trends, and stronger professional networks. Most importantly, I want them to feel recognized for their contributions and the economic value they deliver globally.
What experience or perspective do you bring to the Executive Committee that you believe will add value?
I bring over 20 years of experience in marine coatings, marketing, and product innovation. I understand how products, regulations, and customer needs intersect. My focus on practical innovation and collaboration benefits everyone in the value chain.
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Why do you believe involvement in industry organizations like ISS is important for long-term growth and sustainability? No single company can address complex challenges alone. ISS provides the infrastructure for collective advancement—sharing knowledge, establishing standards, and advocating for our industry. It ensures we're not just reacting to change but actively shaping a sustainable future.
What advice would you offer to emerging professionals entering the superyacht industry? Stay curious and never stop learning. This industry constantly evolves with new materials, technologies, and expectations. Take pride in craftsmanship, seek out mentors, and get involved in organizations like ISS. The relationships and knowledge you gain will be invaluable.
Is there a key takeaway or message you would like to share with ISS members? Your work matters. Every vessel represents the collective expertise and dedication of hundreds of professionals. You deliver extraordinary value—economically, artistically, and through innovation. Let's continue to elevate each other and ensure the world recognizes our industry's remarkable contribution.
| | What advice would you offer to emerging professionals entering the superyacht industry? My advice to emerging professionals is simple: listen carefully, speak to everyone you can, and learn from those who’ve walked the path before you. This industry thrives on mentorship, collaboration, and shared passion, and there’s real opportunity for newcomers to contribute meaningfully from the start. The superyacht industry is one that genuinely values fresh perspectives and actively supports the next generation, guiding them up through the ranks with both rigor and encouragement. Know that your voice matters and that you can help shape the future of this global community. | | |
Rebecca Cahilly Taranto
Secretary
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What motivated you to serve on the ISS Executive Committee? My engagement with the International Superyacht Society began early in my career as a Managing Editor at Boat International. Over the past 15 years, as my industry experience deepened, so too did my involvement with the ISS—first as Secretary on the Executive Committee, then as a member of the Board of Directors. I remain deeply committed to the Society’s mission and its impact on the global yachting sector, particularly in the areas of sustainability, yacht construction, and strategic marketing.
What do you hope ISS members gain from the Society over the next few years? In the coming years, I hope ISS continues to serve as a powerful platform for connection, bringing together diverse voices across the superyacht sector to share knowledge, foster collaboration, and collectively strengthen the industry. One of the Society’s greatest assets is the active participation of executive-level professionals, and I believe that continued engagement at this level will be instrumental in shaping a more innovative, resilient, and forward-thinking yachting community.
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Ron Cleveringa
Board Representative
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What motivated you to serve on the ISS Executive Committee? I was motivated by the chance to give back to an industry I’ve spent my entire career in. The ISS plays an important role in shaping the direction of our industry, and joining the Executive Committee gives me the opportunity to actively support that mission.
What area of focus or initiative are you most passionate about during your time on the Executive Committee? I’m especially passionate about attracting new talent to the industry. Our future depends on showing the next generation the incredible career opportunities available across all sectors of the industry. If we want the industry to stay strong, we need to make it more visible, more accessible, and more inviting to young people.
What experience or perspective do you bring to the Executive Committee that you believe will add value? Having spent my entire career at shipyards, I bring an operational perspective to the table. I’ve seen how decisions translate into real challenges and opportunities. This background helps me understand what shipyards need to thrive and how ISS initiatives can better support them. My goal is to help the ISS strengthen connections throughout the industry and make sure shipyards are well represented.
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What advice would you offer to emerging professionals entering the superyacht industry? Embrace the global nature of the industry. Build relationships, stay open to different perspectives, and be curious about how things are done in other parts of the world. This is an international business, and the more you understand that the more opportunities you’ll find. Always lead with professionalism and integrity.
Is there a key takeaway or message you would like to share with ISS members? Stay engaged. The ISS is only as strong as the people who participate, and this organization has the ability to help shape the future of our industry. When we work together, learn from one another, and support the ISS’s mission, we can continue to elevate our industry.
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