CEO MONTHLY / CEO OF THE YEAR AWARDS 2023 33 CEO MONTHLY / ISSUE 1 2024 17 team is further strengthened motivated, and plan to spearhead initiatives. Identifying new opportunities is key in solidifying the business’ position. Kevin hopes to achieve this on a global scale, exploring avenues such as international collaboration, breaching new markets, and establishing the brand on a worldwide scale. In summary, Kevin tells us, “My aim is to continue leading Concept Yachts towards greater heights, leveraging my experience, expertise, and passion for the maritime industry. By driving innovation, fostering a strong team culture, and strategically positioning the company for sustained growth, I aspire to build upon our current success and pave the way for an even more impactful and prosperous future.” With this dedication in toe, Kevin Viles has solidified himself as being a worthy recipient of this award, and we wish him and the entire team at Concept Yachts the best of luck for the future, and eagerly await the innovative solutions they pioneer next. Company: Kevin Viles Website: conceptyachts.com brand’ ‘Southerly Yachts’ which enabled the tapping of a new segment and an increased customer base, and its joint venture in partnership with ‘Infinti Powercat 60’, bringing to the market the Powercat 60 with the state-of-the-art dynamic stability system. Challenges inevitably surfaced however, particularly regarding the managing of organic growth and sustaining a self-funded business model. Kevin explains, “Navigating organic growth while maintaining quality, innovation, and meeting increasing market demands has been a balancing act. The need to allocate resources efficiently and sustainably scale operations, without compromising on our core values, has been a continuous challenge.” Manoeuvring through such difficulties has aided Kevin exponentially in developing his role, as a more visionary outlook was required while guaranteeing a consistent level of operational excellence and financial security was attained. Looking ahead to the next 12 months and beyond, a series of exciting initiatives are in the pipeline for Concepts group of companies, with a particular emphasis being placed on expanding the availability of sustainable solutions, such as the designing of nextgeneration, entirely electric propulsion passenger ferries as well as hybrid car ferries. These endeavours are driven by this dedication to sustainable practise, and as Kevin describes, “These vessels will not only offer eco-friendly transportation alternatives but also showcase our dedication to pioneering technology in the maritime sector.” An increase in the undertaking of defence contracts is also set to come to fruition in 2024, with the team able to further showcase their expertise by designing and manufacturing specialised vessels, contributing immeasurably to the UK’s defence initiatives through tailored services that rigorously adhere to even the most stringent of specifications. Moreover, there are plans to open new offices in the USA and Europe, expanding Concept Yachts reach and underpinning this commitment in the areas of diversification, innovation, and sustainability. For Kevin personally, his plans remain largely unchanged, driving growth, innovation, and stellar leadership within the business, beginning with him further deepening his knowledge of the wider sphere, staying abreast of new and exciting technologies, the trends dominating the market, and the shifts making waves within the industry. By continuing to enhance his capabilities as leader, the
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